By Dorothy Abreu (MC/MPA ‘25) and Liz Valdez (MPP '26)
As part of its seventh annual State and Local Economic Development (SLED) Seminar, the Taubman Center took this year’s cohort of 30 HKS students to Vermont for a 3-day rural economic development trek in October. The goals were to provide students with an opportunity to experience the economic development realities on the ground in a rural state, learn directly from practitioners and policy makers from different sectors, and create connections among the students from a mix of degree programs to enhance their yearlong Seminar experience together.
Here are the reflections of two students who joined the rural economic development trek to Vermont:
Dorothy Abreu (MC/MPA ‘25)
Despite its relatively small size and population, Vermont boasts stunning natural landscapes, vibrant communities, and a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation. Known for its picturesque scenery of mountains, forests, and lakes, Vermont also takes pride in its rich history, thriving arts scene, and leadership in progressive policies. The state’s charm is enhanced by its bustling small towns, artisanal products, and robust local economies. It's a place where big ideas and a strong sense of community come together to make a significant impact.
Our Vermont trek began with Governor Phil Scott, who outlined his leadership principles of setting standards, focusing on fundamentals, and following through. His teams’ shared character, competence, and chemistry reflect their commitment to the state's approximately 650,000 residents across 14 counties and 252 towns. At BETA Corporation, we marveled at their net-zero aircraft and cutting-edge batteries, with CEO Kyle Clark providing insights and a thrilling flight simulator experience. Later than evening, Kara Alnasrawi's transformation of downtown Burlington highlighted the power of creativity and collaboration.
A visit to the Burlington Farmers Market and a meeting with State Treasurer Mike Pieciak revealed the state's unwavering priority on new housing amidst workforce declines and an aging population. The community's resilience in balancing the need to attract new workers while maintaining the status quo is a testament to their strength. At 14th Star Brewing Co., a veteran-owned business, we learned about their innovations and diversification strategies in response to consumer preferences and inflation. With its stunning views and cozy amenities, Jay Peak Resort provided an evening of relaxation and conversation with CEO Steve Wright, who shared his visionary journey of transformation into a year-round resort, further reinforcing our confidence in Vermont's future.
In Coventry, we saw a successful balance of fiscal soundness and innovative tax practices. The trip concluded at a Vermont eatery in St. Johnsbury, where Jody Fried, Director of the Vermont Leadership Institute and Executive Director of Catamount Arts, and Tim Tierney, Director of Business Recruitment and International Trade at the Vermont Department of Economic Develpoment, discussed how collaboration strengthens rural economies.
Overall, the trek highlighted Vermont's efforts to navigate economic and demographic challenges through innovative leadership and the integral role of community engagement. This emphasis on community involvement encourages residents to feel part of Vermont's progress, fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility.
Liz Valdez (MPP ‘26)
The SLED Trek to Vermont was incredibly insightful for me as an international student, offering a chance to truly experience the heart of the U.S. It’s not that Vermont itself is the nation's core, although it is a beautiful state, and I completely understand why people are drawn to its natural scenery. Rather, it highlighted how deeply the U.S. values its state and local politics and policies, which was so fascinating to witness. As a Mexican, I’m more familiar with the strong cultural and trade ties with U.S. south-border states, but it was especially interesting to experience a northern state like Vermont up close.
One of the highlights for me (aside from getting to know my fellow Seminar colleagues) was the opportunity to explore various levels of decision-making in policymaking—state-level discussions in Vermont’s capital, local perspectives in Burlington, and even town-level issues. It was eye-opening to engage with diverse business owners like Zac, who discussed craft beer, Jody, who shared insights into the arts and creativity, Steven on ski resorts, and Tino on civic organizations. This range of perspectives provided unique insights into a shared goal: growing the local economy. Hearing these viewpoints and comparing them with the challenges at equivalent government levels in my own country was refreshing, inspiring, and thought-provoking.
Overall, what impacted me the most was the level of preparedness and leadership among the people there, along with the deep pride they take in their home state and its community.
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