After nearly twenty years working as an LNA, Stacy decided it was time for a change. Now a nursing student at Vermont State, she’s won a prestigious DAISY Award and is on track to complete her associate degree this spring—with plans to become a Registered Nurse, close to home.
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Blog Archive: Vermont Spotlights
Soren Stelma-Leonard has always felt most at home in the woods of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. Hunting with his dad and helping with maple sugaring sparked his goal of becoming a game warden—and early acceptance to UVM, backed by financial aid and scholarships, put that goal within reach.
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Sayge Bohannon is heading into her senior year in high school with confidence—juggling four college-level classes, National Honor Society, and two sports. A TikTok video sparked her interest in pediatric occupational therapy, and she's learned to trust her instincts as she applies to college.
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Neema Isidore came to Vermont speaking Swahili and Kirundi, then rebuilt her life again after a traumatic brain injury a few years later. This week, she starts at Saint Michael's College on a full scholarship—determined to be like the social worker who was once there for her.
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When a slowdown pushed him to look for his next opportunity, Parker set his sights on a Class A CDL. He completed his training at Stafford Technical Center and landed a job at Lamell Lumber in Essex within 45 minutes of walking in the door—proof, as his VSAC counselor put it, that "life often shows us possibilities if we're willing to pay attention."
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Growing up on a dairy farm in Fairfax taught Lindsey responsibility, resilience, and the value of hard work. Now a college student, she is turning those lessons into a career dedicated to caring for others.
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From navigating college applications as an independent student to graduating with a bachelor’s in studio art, Rose has overcome significant challenges. Now preparing to begin her master's degree, she hopes to inspire others through art, education, and the same support that helped her succeed.
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What began as a middle school class grew into a passion for language and human connection. As a first-generation student, Lily navigated the college search and financial aid process with determination, finding a path to a career where she will help others communicate and be understood.
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Aero has always pictured herself behind the lens of a telescope or in a lab. With support from her community and an expansive college search she secured a full tuition scholarship, proving that with perseverance, even the most ambitious goals are within reach.
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At 27, Sophia lives a life defined by caring for others. A nurse manager, National Guard veteran, and lifelong wildlife rehabilitator, she balanced full-time work, military service, and community commitments as she earned her nursing degree, debt-free.
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