People in the news

Christopher Berger has been appointed the new Dean of UVM’s Graduate College and Postdoctoral Studies, effective July 1. A highly collaborative leader with extensive experience in graduate education administration, Dr.

Jonathan Williams and Carlen Finn have been unanimously elected to the board of Public Assets Institute.

A nonpartisan nonprofit in Montpelier, Public Assets Institute is Vermont’s independent research organization on state budget, tax, and economic issues and the source for timely and in-depth state fiscal and policy analysis.

Hope Valiska has joined the team of fractional financial service providers with Ascend Group. Hope brings 20 years of financial experience spanning roles from Executive Bookkeeper to Chief Financial Officer. She is skilled at evaluating and auditing finances to identify opportunities for improved accuracy and compliance.

Norwich University has added to its team of executive leadership with the addition of Sandra M. Quaye, who takes on the role of Chief Financial Officer. “We are excited to welcome Sandra Quaye to Norwich University as our new Chief Financial Officer,” said LtGen John J. Broadmeadow ’83, USMC (Ret.), 25th President of Norwich University.

Lund has announced that Emily Hecker will join the organization as Director of Advancement beginning June 2. Emily Hecker has spent her career in public media, nonprofit communications and development, most recently serving as Director of Development for the Humane Society of Chittenden County.

The Harborvale announces the appointment of Heinrich von Puschendorf as General Manager. As Burlington’s premier lakefront destination prepares for its anticipated opening in July 2026, this appointment marks the first in a series of strategic leadership hires. 

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates is growing to meet the demand of ingredient conscious shoppers with the promotion of Hadley Roy to Marketing Manager, a new position within the company, and the hiring of Selena Lamphere as the Sales and Marketing Coordinator. 

Brattleboro Savings & Loan has promoted Linda Hescock to Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer. Linda has been working at BS&L for over 30 years, and in that time, she’s been the guide and navigator for hundreds of local people to become homeowners. Linda first began her career at BS&L in 1991, quickly becoming the head of customer service.

Radiate Art Space is delighted to announce Molly Hall as its Executive Director. A dedicated volunteer with Radiate since 2023, Molly has contributed to the organization in many roles, including host of Toddler/Preschool Art Play, Board Secretary, and most recently President of the Board.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont is proud to announce that Detective Trooper Jesse Dambrackas of the Vermont State Police has been awarded the inaugural Hometown Hero Award, sponsored by the Department of Justice in honor of America’s 250th birthday. 

National Life Group, based in Montpelier, Vermont, has announced at its annual meeting that Brenda Betts has been elected to serve as a membe

The Davis & Hodgdon Advisory Group in Williston has announced that Supervisor Jocelyn Geiger has earned the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. Jocelyn recently passed all four sections of the CPA exam and completed the state’s rigorous experience requirements. This accomplishment highlights her dedication to the profession and expertise in accounting.