On behalf of the Vermont Garden Network, the Board of Directors is excited to share the transitions and transformations happening at our mighty organization.
After six years at the helm, our fearless leader, Michelle Gates, will be moving on to pursue new opportunities in the field of nonprofit education. This bittersweet moment is a time to reflect on and appreciate the tremendous amount of work Michelle has done for VGN, garden education and advocacy, and statewide food access, food justice and food security, nutrition, and wellness. Michelle’s dedication brought increased support and growth for our team, expanded and enhanced programming, created and nurtured partnerships, and grew a community of invested gardeners from all backgrounds. No words can fully express the deep gratitude we all feel for the leadership, expertise, dedication, and thoughtfulness that Michelle brought to VGN.
This fall marks a time for great transformation at VGN. As Michelle transitions to a new role, our leadership team is moving towards a shared leadership model as we introduce two Co-Executive Directors – a Director of Programs and Partnerships and a Director of Philanthropy and Communications. We are thrilled to announce that Carolina Lukac, VGN’s Garden Education Manager of 8 years, is bringing her wealth of knowledge and experience into the role of Director of Programs and Partnerships! Carolina’s vision for this work, her ability to make thoughtful and intentional connections with both individuals and groups in this space, and her dedication to garden education and access will propel VGN towards more positive growth. We are delighted to welcome T Hanson as the Director of Philanthropy and Communications. T will be officially joining the VGN team in January 2024. We look forward to formally introducing her to our network of gardeners, funders, partners and supporters.
Internships
VGN interns get direct work experience and play an important role in supporting food access and garden education. We have several internship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students throughout the year, ranging from hands-on garden education to outreach and communications.
Sowing Seeds Spring Internship – January to May 2024 – 8hrs/week – Application window is closed. We are reviewing applications and will be reaching out to applicants by 12/20.
Thrive Internship – May to October 2024 – TBD
Garden Education Summer Internship – June to August 2024 – TBD
2024 Board of Directors Openings
VGN has positions open on our board of directors. To learn more about VGN board membership, please click here.