Vijay Nazareth, founder and executive director of Skills for Life and founder and CEO at Exeter Capital Company, both in Frederick, Maryland, has been named executive director of the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition in Middlebury, an organization that assists farmers in implementing innovative agricultural practices that enhance water quality, soil health, climate smart farming and their economic resiliency. Nazareth succeeds John Roberts, who was tapped by President Joe Biden for USDA state executive director of the Farm Service Agency in Vermont.
In his new role, Nazareth will have overall operational responsibility for CVFC’s mission, programs, member relations, communications, financial growth, grant management and staff. Among his many priorities is resuming the organization’s in-person educational programming for farmers to learn more about innovative agricultural practices.
“CVFC has built an amazing network of farmers over the years,” Nazareth said. “I am truly honored to be the next executive director, and I look forward to meeting and working with our members and community partners.”
Nazareth’s experience in the private sector and nonprofit management and finance, combined with his passion for conservation in agriculture and environmental stewardship, will help to further advance the organization’s mission.
“He is a curious, collaborative, and results-oriented leader who will bring strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to the role,” said Brian Kemp, CVFC’s Board President.
Nazareth is a graduate of the University of Connecticut and holds a master's degree in agriculture/soil and water science from the University of Florida.