People in the news

As Berkshire Bank expands its reach in New York, it has appointed John Prividera as regional manager, overseeing the branch network in the Capital District market.

2012 VRA Retailer of the Year: Lt. Gov. Phil Scott; Stanley “Pal” Borofsky; Bradley Borofsky; Vermont Senator Jeannette White (D), Windham County







2012 VRA Greentailer of the Year: Incoming VRA Board of Trustees President Marc Sherman; Lt. Gov. Phil Scott; Sharon and Mike Hassenberg







Mercy Connections is pleased to announce the addition of two strong and vibrant women to their team. Gwen Pokalo and Hannah Hinsley, both former students of the University of Vermont (UVM), have been graciously welcomed into the Mercy Connections community. Both women agree that Mercy Connections feeds the soul, in addition to providing myriad opportunities for professional development.

Keller Williams Realty is pleased to announce that Brenda Jones owner of Brenda Jones Real Estate has merged with Keller Williams Realty Green Mountain Properties as an agent partner. Brenda is a lifelong resident of Bennington County, and is involved in many activities that make the Bennington area a better place to live.

The work of a surgeon is one of skill and precision. Steady hands can mean the difference between life and death. North Country Surgical Associates in Newport welcomes their newest surgeon to their team, Virginia McDougall M.D.

Dr. McDougall arrived at the practice in April, joining surgeons Larry Sisson and Mark Meredith. She brings with her an extensive medical background.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce announces the appointment of Ellen Dube to the Director of Events position. Formerly director of the Vermont Chamber’s group tour marketing program, Vermont Tourism Network, Dube has been involved in a variety of Vermont Chamber programs and events since 2009.

The Visiting Nurse Association of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties (VNA) proudly announces Dr. Jaina Clough as the new Hospice Medical Director. Dr. Clough comes highly recommended to the VNA with years of experience from Fletcher Allen Health Care where she served as a primary care physician.

Family nurse practitioner Emily LeVan of Randolph Center has joined the Bethel Health Center. The Bethel clinic is part of Gifford Medical Center.

Kate Clemente didn’t have to look far to find her role model. The Montpelier native’s mother has been a physician assistant for 35 years, dedicating herself to her profession and her community.

Tao Smith, head of school at Killington Mountain School (KMS), recently announced that three key positions at the ski academy have been filled to match the school’s continued expansion and growth. Deb Newson, director of student life and assistant director of school operations and former freestyle program director, has been named assistant head of school.

Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company has named Valerie Traynor senior vice president of specialty foods, a newly created position. Traynor will have national account responsibility for all Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company’s current and future products.

Head Men’s Basketball Coach John Dyer, renowned for recruiting top student-athletes and producing a successful men’s basketball program since 2003, has left Vermont Tech to concentrate on serving as head coach and director of team operations for Dragonheart Vermont.