Click on the + symbol to see details for each committee. If you’re interested in serving on a committee, please click here.
Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee consists of up to seven people elected by the board of directors. The committee manages all aspects of board elections and awards including 1) identifying, soliciting and nominating a diverse array of nominees for the VBSR board of directors, VBSR Nominating Committee & VBSR Awards and 2) ensuring the criteria, eligibility and selection process for nominations is user-friendly, fair, aligned with VBSR values, and clearly communicated.
All VBSR members are eligible to serve. We look for committee members who:
- Are familiar with the business community in Vermont
- Are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Can attend meetings 4-5 times/year (in-person or virtual), each lasting one to two hours
- Can participate in committee discussions conducted via email in between meetings
Current Nominating Committee members are: Adeline Druart, Frank Sadowski, Beth Gilpin, Etienne Morris, Caroline Hauser, Madeline Brumberg, and Duane Peterson, Chair.
Interested in joining the Nominating Committee? Contact Roxanne Vought, Executive Director
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee oversees VBSR’s budget and financial well-being. It is also responsible for oversight of financial management systems. The committee consists of current and past board members who:
- Appreciate the importance of solid financial management
- Have relevant personal expertise, such as a good understanding of financial reporting and management
Education & Events Committee
The Education & Events Committee works to plan effective, educational, and fun events throughout the year. This includes advising on content development and planning for conferences, education and training programming, networking Get-Togethers, and other offerings. The Committee works closely with VBSR’s Executive Director and Events & Education Manager.
All VBSR members are welcome to participate. We prioritize committee members who:
- Are passionate about enhancing the value of VBSR programs for members
- Are creative thinkers and brainstorming problem-solvers
- Can attend monthly, virtual meetings
- Can commit to work outside of and between committee meetings
Note: being on the Committee does not exclude you from presenting at conferences or hosting Get-Togethers
Interested in joining the Education & Events Committee? Contact Roxanne Vought, Executive Director
Public Policy Committee
The Public Policy Committee is a formal group that meets monthly to develop VBSR’s policy and positions and works closely with the Public Policy Manager and the VBSR Board. The board appoints public policy committee members from within the VBSR membership.
Interested in joining the Public Policy Committee? Contact Jordan Giaconia, Public Policy Manager
Policy Issues Groups
VBSR Policy Issues Groups are informal groups of members interested in learning about or participating in advocacy regarding a particular policy issue. All VBSR members are eligible, and new members are always welcome. Members help shape public policy, receive regular updates during the legislative session, are called upon to take action to influence a particular issue, including testifying, writing letters to the editor and/or op-eds, and other actions.
To join, please add your name here or email Jordan Giaconia.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee is comprised of board officers and the previous chairperson, elected by the board. It meets between board meetings and can make decisions for the board except for policy decisions. Terms are for two years, and members can serve up to two consecutive terms.
Featured Member

TruexCullins Architecture + Interior Design
Burlington-based TruexCullins Architecture + Interior Design is a local firm whose influence can be seen citywide as well as nationally and internationally. The firm’s body of work exemplifies how a built environment can transform how we work, live, play, and learn in a way that inspires us to be our best, expresses who we are, and uses the earth’s resources wisely.
By working closely with clients and demonstrating the benefits of sustainable design, the firm strives to consistently deliver beautiful, high-performing buildings that illustrate how sustainability enhances people’s lives. And with greenhouse gas emissions from buildings driving global warming, the firm has joined with more than 750 other architecture firms nationwide to meet the challenge set forth by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to achieve carbon-neutral buildings by the year 2030. The firm’s Sustainability Plan, issued early in 2020, outlines its proud commitment and the steps in advancing its practice to meet this goal.
Beyond offering good buildings, TruexCullins is a firm that considers service to the community and its employees an integral part of its social responsibility mission. Partnering with mission-driven organizations such as 52 Kids Foundation in Uganda and the Edge of Seven in Nepal; with like-minded advocacy groups like VBSR, AIA VT, and Vermont Superintendents Association; and supporting non-profits like King Street Center, Habitat for Humanity, and United Way with both time and corporate giving are baked into the culture of the firm; and so is supporting their own. The leadership works hard to maintain an employee-centered workplace where individuals are valued and have access to resources and opportunities to develop their careers, pursue enriching lives, and share in the success of the firm. Regular review of practices and benefit structures have ensured continual alignment and kept the firm focused on employees feeling successful, valued, and at the center of the firm’s success.
Sharing our design expertise at conferences locally, regionally, and nationally and advocating for public policies in support of sustainability and the built environment are priorities for TruexCullins. Currently, partners and associates hold Board positions on environmental and socially responsible organizations, including VBSR, AIA Vermont, and the National Board of the Construction Specifications Institute.
From designing community spaces like the Church Street Marketplace to volunteer work on non-profit boards, the firm has been a positive force in the public realm over its 54-year history.
“For 54 years, TruexCullins has provided sustainable design solutions, supported community organizations, and fostered an employee-centered workplace. We believe strongly in the power of socially responsible businesses to make our society more just and minimize our environmental footprint. VBSR is an excellent way for like-minded businesses to join their voices together and maximize their impact in advocating for changes that benefit people and the planet. As a long-time member, TruexCullins is honored to support the important work of VBSR as a Champion Member, which will help amplify our shared vision of a better world for people, the planet, and our community’s prosperity.” – David Epstein, Managing Principal, TruexCullins
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