Liah’s love for her hometown of Canaan, Vermont, is matched only by her motivation to succeed. With help from mentors, local opportunities, and a Saint Michael’s College Book Award, she’s heading to school to study business—while helping balance the unique challenge of having all four of her siblings attend college at the same time.

At VSAC’s Day at the State House, we celebrated 60 years of investing in education—and in Vermont’s future. Students took the podium to share their personal journeys, offering powerful reminders of what’s possible when opportunity meets determination.

Aubrianna is wrapping up high school with a clear plan: enlist in the Air National Guard and study aerospace engineering at Clarkson. She already has a background in community service, mental health, Junior ROTC, and aviation.