A project of the University of Vermont’s Reporting & Documentary Storytelling program.
A project of the University of Vermont’s Reporting & Documentary Storytelling program.
Owen Webster (He/Him)
Owen is a senior at UVM majoring in English and minoring in Music. Raised in Acton, Massachusetts, Owen is a member of the Lawrence Debate Union and multiple UVM Jazz ensembles. This summer, he is looking forward to learning about and writing for communities of Vermont.
Tulley Hecock (She/Her)
Tulley is a senior at UVM majoring in Geography and minoring in Global Studies and Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. She grew up in Cornwall Vermont where she gained a strong interest in public education and writing. Now she is the features editor for the Vermont Cynic. Tulley is excited to cover more stories across Vermont's many communities.
Jennie is an Environmental Studies senior at UVM with a minor in Writing. She grew up in Manchester, Vermont and reports for the Valley Reporter. Skateboarding, reading, dance parties, guitar, and card games make her happiest. Jennie is excited to work towards a green belt in the UVM Taekwondo Club this summer, as well as manage UVM’s natural areas.
Henry Stone (He/Him/ They/Them)
Henry Stone is a senior at UVM double-majoring in English (with a concentration in British Literature) and Classical Civilization. He's from South Burlington, VT and currently living in Burlington. He spends his free time reading and playing D&D.
Nick Bishop (He/Him)
I’m Nick, I’ll be a junior this upcoming fall at UVM and am pursuing a degree in environmental studies with a minor in food systems. I’m currently living in Burlington, but grew up in Cleveland, Ohio exploring Lake Erie. Since coming to Vermont, I have enjoyed snowboarding, hiking, and checking out local farmers markets. I’m very excited to get to know Lake Champlain much better in the summer months. I currently work in the donation center at the Goodwill of South Burlington. After college, I hope to find work addressing food insecurity in urban areas, wherever it may take me.
Meg Trogolo is a graduating senior (Dec. 2021) majoring in mathematics with a statistics concentration at the University of Vermont. She grew up in the Boston area and is now based in Burlington, Vermont. She has written for various sections at the Vermont Cynic since 2017, and hopes in the future to continue telling the truth through investigation, however possible. When not working, she can usually be found exercising, singing with Burlington bands, trying new recipes, or laughing with friends.
Kate O’Farrell (She/Her)
Kate O’Farrell is a junior at UVM, majoring in English with a minor in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. Kate is originally from Burke, Vermont. She is passionate about providing local Vermont communities with quality news and helping communities report important and equitable updates all over the state. She is excited to learn about the interests and stories of communities throughout Vermont. When she’s not studying or working, Kate can be found either alpine or nordic skiing, hiking, swimming, and scouting good ice cream spots.
Luca Kolba (He/Him)
Luca Kolba is a junior majoring in Environmental Studies and minoring in Food Systems at UVM. He's originally from Montclair, New Jersey, and is currently living in Burlington, Vermont. Luca is excited to be spending his summer as a reporter for CNS building his writing and journalism skills, and can also be found interning at Railyard Apothecary making herbal products. He's passionate about environmental justice, food and land sovereignty, foraging for fungi, and making pottery. Nearly all of his spare time is dedicated to his funny little dog, Willow.
Mathew Blanchett
Matthew is a Senior at UVM studying English and Music. Interning through the Communities of Practice program, Matthew is currently working with author/journalist Steve Terry and is also writing stories for the Hardwick Gazette. In his free time, Matthew enjoys to read or play guitar.
Emmie Aufderheide | Video
(She/Her)
Emmie Aufderheide is a freshman at UVM with an undeclared major. She is considering majoring in film or parks, recreation, and tourism. Her interests include skiing, studying film, photography, and traveling.
Sid Bewlay | Reporter
(She/Her)
Sid is a senior at UVM, and a Film and Television Studies Major with minors in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling and Behavioral Change Health Studies. She love movies, music, and baseball. She spends her free time on those things, skiing/snowboarding, hiking, or at the beach and cliff jumping.
Shanti Boyle | Reporter
(She/Her)
Shanti is a senior majoring in English at the University of Vermont. She has previously interned at the Smithsonian American Art Museum writing press releases and blog posts. During her two and a half months studying abroad, she wrote for the University of Kent's newspaper, InQuire. She loves the New York Times crossword and well-placed puns.
Duncan Campbell | Reporter
(He/Him)
Duncan is a senior majoring in Media and Communication with an emphasis in journalism with a minor in Political Science. He is a contributor to the Castleton Spartan newspaper and has assisted in writing articles for the university's Office of Marketing & Communications. He has experience in writing about culture, alumni relations and campus life.
Liam Creaser | Reporter
(He/Him)
Liam is a senior dual-degree student majoring in Political Science and English with a concentration in writing. He is co-editor-in-chief of the Water Tower, UVM’s alternative newsmag and has experience in writing about music, culture, and campus life.
Cameron Bremner | Reporter
(He/Him)
Cameron is a sophomore at UVM pursuing a degree in mathematics with minors in reporting and documentary storytelling and applied design. He manages a personal blog, where he covers a wide array of topics through descriptive and narrative writing.
Brendan Crowley | Reporter
(He/Him)
Brendan is a junior at Castleton University majoring in Media and Communication with a focus in journalism. He is currently the managing editor of The Spartan, Castleton’s student newspaper. He writes about a variety of different news topics, but finds a passion writing features about music and sports.
Phoebe Denton | Reporter
(She/Her)
Phoebe is a senior at UVM majoring in Environmental Studies and minoring in Green Building and Community Design as well as Art. She is from Philadelphia, PA and currently lives in Burlington, VT. Phoebe enjoys writing and she is passionate about sustainable transportation as well as environmental concerns in the state and beyond.
Austin Crosier | Reporter
(He/Him)
Austin is a senior majoring in Media and Communication with a concentration in journalism and minoring in history. He is an active member of The Castleton Spartan, Castleton University’s newspaper, where he has been published writing about sports, campus life and personal experiences.
Alyson Detch | Reporter
(She/Her)
Alyson is a 21-year-old senior at the University of Vermont studying English. She has lived in Williston, VT for all of her life and has always had a passion for writing. She enjoys writing fantasy stories in her free time and has published two books. She has a passion to share other people’s stories and learning how to expand her writing skills. When she is not writing, she loves spending time with her family and dog.
Caton Deuso | Reporter
(They/Them)
Caton is a senior at Castleton University studying Media and Communication with concentrations in media studies and journalism. They have received an associate degree from the Community College of Vermont in liberal studies in the spring of 2018. They are currently serving as the copy editor of the Castleton Spartan and have experience writing editorials, columns and hard news.
Shudder Hurd-Burnell | Reporter (He/Him)
Shudder is a senior Media and Communication student focusing in journalism with a minor in Computer Information Systems. He writes for the Castleton Spartan and is the General Manager of Castleton Internet Radio, a student-run station at CU. He has experience reporting on hard news, entertainment, and campus-life.
Rebecca Flieder | Reporter
(She/Her)
Rebecca Flieder is a junior at NVU-Johnson studying Creative Writing. She is the editor of the campus newspaper, Basement Medicine. In her free time, she likes to read and do her nails.
Erin Gallagher | Reporter
(She/Her)
Erin Gallagher is a senior English major at UVM, with minors in Spanish and Reporting & Documentary Storytelling. She loves to write on a wide range of topics, and tutors at UVM's Undergraduate Writing Center. She also enjoys to read, knit, and write music in her free time.
Emmett Gartner | Reporter
(He/Him)
Emmett Gartner was born and raised in Annapolis, MD. Currently he is a Senior Environmental Studies Major at the University of Vermont with a concentration in Environmental Journalism. In conjunction with writing for the Community News Service, he is the editor-in-chief of Headwaters Magazine, UVM's undergraduate environmental magazine.
Anya Kauffman | Reporter
(She/Her)
Anya Kauffman is an English major and music minor at the University of Vermont. She is from Brooklyn, NY and currently lives in Burlington, VT. Anya is passionate about writing about and spreading awareness for issues such as body positivity, lowering the income disparity gap, and dismantling racism.
Indigo Wilds Glaza | Reporter
(He/Him)
Indigo is a UVM senior majoring in Environmental Studies with a concentration in green urban planning and a minor in Geography. He writes about a variety of topics but is passionate about global events as well as politics. He is an experienced traveler who would love to combine his love for travel with his love for writing.
Chase McGuire | Reporter
(He/Him)
Sam Le Compte | Video
(He/Him)
Sam LeCompte. is currently a senior at the University of Vermont studying film and writing He will be graduating in May and hopes to continue work in video production and storytelling. His hobbies include philosophy, music, art, and comedy.
Ellery Mahlum | Reporter
(She/Her)
Ellery is a junior at UVM majoring in Psychology and Health in Society. She is from Minneapolis, MN and currently lives in Burlington, VT. Ellery enjoys writing and is excited to get a more professional experience with reporting. In the future she is interested in getting a Masters in Public Health and getting involved with health communications.
Ciara McEneany | Reporter
(She/Her)
Ciara is a Junior at UVM majoring in Environmental Studies with a double minor in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling and Political Science. She is from Hudson Valley, New York and now lives full time in Burlington, Vermont. Ciara is passionate writing about and being involved in causes such as Environmental Justice, voter suppression and fighting racism.
Gabriella Marchesi | Reporter
(She/Her)
Gabriella is a senior at UVM pursuing a B.A. in economics with a minor in writing. She loves writing about food, business and politics – but especially food. In her free time, Gabriella can be found scoping out the latest restaurant in town.
Kayla Santiago (She/Her)
Kayla is a sophomore at UVM from Bridgeport, Connecticut. She is a Religion major who takes interest in how religion impacts people all around the world. In her spare time she enjoy taking photos, hiking, and gardening. She joined Community News Service because she has always had an interest in the journalistic process, and finds it so interesting how someone can take a story and engage people from all walks of life. She hopes to connect with Vermont locals through my stories and research this year and get to know what is important to them.
Cullen Paradis | Reporter
(He/Him)
Cullen is a UVM student majoring in Political Science and journalism. He runs the Political Science Club and writes for the UVM Cynic news section.
Anna Morrill | Reporter
(She/Her)
Anna is a sophomore at UVM majoring in English with a concentration in writing and minoring in psychology. She enjoys painting in her spare
Matthew Pawlowski | Reporter (He/Him)
Matthew is a UVM sophomore majoring in Music and Psychological Studies and minoring in Film and Television Studies. Matthew has five years of experience in video journalism, having worked with MMCTV and RETN on video projects during his summers. While not reporting, Matthew enjoys playing piano, composing music for films and video games, and knitting most especially.
Jay Mullen | Reporter
(He/Him)
Jay is a senior studying communication with a concentration in journalism and a minor in photography at Castleton University. He is the sports editor of the Castleton Spartan student newspaper, as well as a sports reporter. Jay is also currently interning at the Rutland Herald as a sports reporter and manages a sports blog where he talks about professional wrestling, baseball, basketball, football, and soccer.
Annika Ringen | Reporter
(She/Her)
Annika is a junior at UVM majoring in English with a writing concentration. She writes about a variety of different topics but is passionate about reporting local and statewide politics. She hopes to use reporting to gain a greater understanding of Vermont culture and share the stories that make it unique.
You can contact Annika at annika.ringen@uvm.edu.
Olivia Nye | Reporter
(She/Her)
Olivia Nye is a junior double majoring in Studio Art and English with a minor in Applied Design. Besides spending her days finding four leaf clovers, Olivia likes to bake cakes and write letters to her friends and family. And when she’s not off painting by the waterfront, she can be found playing rugby on UVM’s team.
Caroline Slack | Reporter
(She/Her)
Caroline Slack is a rising senior at University of Vermont, where she studies English with a concentration in writing and minors in History. At UVM, she works with the student newspaper, the Cynic, as a feature writer and photographer.
Morgan Studrevant | Reporter
(She/Her)
Morgan is a junior at UVM majoring in Global Studies with a minor in Middle East Studies. In her free time, Morgan likes to write and practice photography.
Sarah Tringali | Marketing & Outreach (She/Her)
Sarah Tringali is a Junior majoring in Latin American Studies at the University of Vermont. Her interests include hiking, paddle boarding and skiing. She is running the Reporting and Documentary Storytelling Instagram (@Reportinguvm) and Facebook accounts, showcasing work from students and others within the community.
Jenn Travers | Reporter
(She/Her)
Jennifer Travers is a senior studying English with a Theatre minor at the University of Vermont. She has been featured in poetry publications such as The Poartry Project and Brandeis’s Laurel Moon. She enjoys writing about local arts and music.
Luke Zarzecki | Reporter
(He/Him)
Luke is a junior dual-degree student majoring in Environmental Studies and English with a minor in public policy analysis. He has a nose for news and investigative journalism, and has gained reporting experience through multiple newspapers. He has been picked up by the Huffington Post and has interviewed Will Poulter (an actor in The Revenant, We're The Millers and The Maze Runner), as well as internet celebrities Nash Grier and Cameron Dallas.
Connor Adams | Audio (He/Him)
Connor was born in Wilton, CT and currently resides in Burlington, VT at the University of Vermont. He is an English major at the University of Vermont where his goals are creating captivating and detailed stories as well as examining American culture. As a part of the CNS, Connor works with the podcasting team creating audio stories related to a variety of local events. Podcasting allows Connor to create sonic vignettes that pull his stories together and keep people engaged. By immersing people within the audio story format, Connor hopes to be accessible to everyone and inform the citizens of Vermont about the current state of Vermont politics.
You can contact Connor at connor.aadams@uvm.edu.
Eileen Brickell | Reporter (She/Her)
Eileen Brickell is a senior at the University of Vermont majoring in Anthropology. She is from Long Island New York, one hour from Manhattan. Eileen enjoys reading about the end of the world, watching The Office, and hanging out with her friends. She hopes to become an epidemiologist for the CDC after getting her masters in public health. Currently, Eileen works at the University of Vermont COVID Testing Center and takes great pride in her job.
You can contact Eileen at eileen.brickell@uvm.edu.
Scott Barnes | Reporter (He/Him)
Scott Barnes is a senior at the University of Vermont where he studies History and English, and currently writes for The Winooski News. He is a Massachusetts native now living in Burlington, VT, and working part-time at the Four Corners of the Earth Pub and Deli. In his free time he loves to read, to play and watch soccer, and listen to music.
You can contact Scott at scott.barnes@uvm.edu.
Ryan Boeke | Reporter (He/Him)
Ryan Boeke is a junior at Castleton University with a dual concentration in Public Relations and Journalism and a minor in Theater Arts. He is from Gypsum, Colorado and has always been fascinated with the outdoors. Due to the location of his home, appreciating the outdoors and going on adventures has always steered him in the right direction. He can usually be found either rock climbing or skiing, both of which are major passions of his that he enjoys writing about.
You can contact Ryan at rmb03250@castleton.edu.
Sophia Buckley - Clement | reporter (She/Her)
Sophia is a junior at Castleton University majoring in Media and Communication with a journalism concentration and a minor in music. Originally from Midcoast Maine, she now resides in Rutland, Vermont. Sophia writes for the Castleton Spartan and has been featured in The Rutland Herald. In her free time, she enjoys writing poetry, playing piano, and spending time with her dogs—Mogwai and Sunshine.
You can contact Sophia at sxb08121@castleton.edu.
Jana Lynne Decamilla | Reporter (She/Her)
Jana Lynne DeCamilla is a senior Media and Communication student with a concentration in journalism at Castleton University. Originally from Albany, New York, Jana graduated from SUNY Adirondack in 2019, just a month after publishing her first novel. She enjoys writing poetry and fiction, listening to music and spending time with her boyfriend and 5-year-old son, Cire, in her free time.
Natalie Charron | Reporter (She/Her)
Natalie Charron is a junior at UVM majoring in English with a writing concentration and a minor in music. Natalie is from Quechee, VT and currently lives in Burlington. She has written articles for the culture section of the Vermont Cynic. In her free time, Natalie loves playing musical instruments, reading, and skiing with her friends.
You can contact Natalie at natalie.charron@uvm.edu.
Devany Di Paolo | Reporter (She/Her)
Devany Di Paolo is a junior studying at UVM majoring in Art Education. Devany is originally from Montville, New Jersey and now lives in Burlington, Vermont. She is working as a photographer for CNS. Her love for photography started 9 years ago when she started developing her film in the darkroom of her middle school. She loves to take photos, make beaded jewelry, collage, and listen to music.
You can contact Devany at Devany.Di-Paolo@uvm.edu.
John Ely | Reporter (He/Him)
John Ely is a junior at UVM majoring in Environmental Science with a concentration in water resources, and a minor in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. John is originally from Hightstown, New Jersey and now resides in Burlington, Vermont. He is currently reporting and writing for the Times Ink. He is a member of the Men's Rugby team and spends much of his free time snowboarding in the Green Mountains or fishing along the Jersey coast.
You can contact John at john.ely@uvm.edu.
Josie Gawrys | Reporter
Josie is a sophomore at Castleton University double-majoring in Media and Communication and Technical Theatre. She is from Hershey, Pennsylvania but is currently located in Castleton, Vermont. Josie is an editor for the Castleton Spartan student newspaper and she enjoys nature, music and spending time with her friends.
You can contact Josie at jag11140@csc.vsc.edu.
Madison Froelich | Reporter (She/Her)
Madison is a senior at UVM double majoring in Anthropology and English with a concentration in writing. She is originally from Norwalk Connecticut and currently lives in Burlington. Madison is a member and former captain of the UVM club field hockey team. She also enjoys spending her time writing and exploring the great outdoors. This is her first time officially reporting and she is super excited to start writing.
You can contact Madison at madison.froelich@uvm.edu.
Chris Gish | Reporter (He/Him)
Chris Gish is a senior pursuing dual degrees in Geography and Agroecology at UVM. He grew up in Sharon, Vermont, where he learned to appreciate local farms and vibrant communities. Chris competes for the varsity Cross Country and Track teams and, outside of class, works at Full Moon Farm in Hinesburg. In the future, he hopes to pursue investigative environmental journalism and critical nature/culture studies, as well as to continue to get his hands dirty on the farm.
You can contact Chris at christopher.gish@uvm.edu.
Cailin Gramling | Reporter (She/Her)
Cailin is a senior at UVM majoring in Philosophy. Growing up, she moved around the northeast but has now settled in Burlington. She currently works as a research assistant for the Vermont Conversation Lab and is excited to be branching out into other forms of storytelling.
You can contact Cailin at cailin.gramling@uvm.edu.
Rowan Hawthorne | Reporter (She/Her)
Rowan Hawthorne is a junior at UVM, double-majoring in Political Science and Environmental Studies. Originally from Hartford, Wisconsin, she lived in France before moving to Vermont for school. She loves writing and worked as a student researcher for CNS in 2020. She is passionate about the outdoors, podcasts, watercolor painting, and cooking.
You can contact Rowan at rowan.hawthorne.1@uvm.edu.
Maddy Holden | Reporter (She/Her)
Maddy is a second-year student at UVM. She hails from a small town less than 30 miles west of Boston, Massachusetts. In an effort to combine her love of reading and writing and Spanish language and culture, she is majoring in English with a concentration in writing and minoring in Latin American and Caribbean studies. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and doing just about anything outdoors.
You can contact Maddy at madeleine.holden@uvm.edu
Jasmin Gomez | Reporter (She/Her)
Jasmin is a senior at Castleton University, double-majoring in Studio Art and Media and Communication. She is originally from Rutland, Vermont but now lives in Mount Holly. She has a passion for the arts and works as a freelance artist. In her free time, she enjoys writing, drawing, photography and spending time with her family. After college, she hopes to pursue a career in writing and illustration.
You can contact Jasmin at jrg06011@castleton.edu.
Quinn Houston | Reporter (He/Him)
Quinn is a freshman majoring in Political Science at UVM. He is from Westminster, Vermont and has always had a passion for writing and film. He is the videographer for the UVM Campus Rec Marketing and now explores his writing through reporting local news.
You can contact Quinn at william.houston@uvm.edu.
Ivy Kirby | Reporter (She/Her)
Ivy is a junior majoring in Art and minoring in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. She is a photographer for the Vermont Cynic and wants to be a photojournalist. Her hobbies include taking photos of her friends and playing with dogs. She is from Dover, Vermont but grew up in New York City.
You can contact Ivy at ivy.kirby@uvm.edu.
Anna Kolosky | Reporter (She/Her)
Anna is a senior at UVM majoring in English with a concentration in writing and minors in biology and RDS. She is the Assistant Culture Editor at the Vermont Cynic, and enjoys writing about local artists and events. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, and hiking throughout Vermont.
You can contact Anna at anna.kolosky@uvm.edu.
Sophie Hinds | Reporter (She/Her)
Sophie is a freshman majoring in political science. She is from New York City and has always been interested in writing and literature. She is on the club softball team.
You can contact her at sophie.hinds@uvm.edu.
Jen Lannom | Reporter (She/Her)
Jen is a senior at UVM majoring in political science and minoring in reporting and documentary storytelling. Although Jen was pursuing a BS in chemistry for much of her time in school, the pull of political journalism was eventually too strong and she now plans to pursue it passionately full time.
You can contact Jen at jennifer.lannom@uvm.edu.
Maggie Lee | Reporter (She/Her)
Maggie Lee is a senior majoring in Environmental Studies at the University of Vermont. She joined CNS to take a deeper dive into the connection between storytelling and the natural environment of Vermont. Originally from a small town in rural New Hampshire, she is particularly interested in rural issues. In her free time, she enjoys mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and drinking raspberry tea.
You can contact Maggie at margaret.s.lee@uvm.edu.
Jacob McCarthy | Reporter
(He/Him)
Jacob is a Media and Communication major with a minor in Coaching at Castleton University. Originally from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, he lives in Castleton while attending school and plays on the Castleton football team. When not playing football, he also enjoys skiing and hanging out with friends. He has written sports stories for the Castleton Spartan student newspaper.
You can contact Jacob at jtm10180@castleton.edu.
Kris Nine | Reporter
(He/Him)
Kris is a graduating senior at UVM, studying Political Science and English. He has interned in Burlington politics, and currently works at City Market and the UVM writing center. Kris hopes to pursue a career in writing or teaching and enjoys biking on sunny days. He is from Portland, OR.
You can contact Kris at kris.nine@uvm.edu.
Alex Binzen (He/Him)
Alex Binzen is a Junior Environmental Studies major in The Rubenstein School with an inclination towards ecological economics and energy policy. Having grown up in Strafford, Vermont, he is excited to explore his local community through reporting.
You can contact Alex at Alexander.Binzen@uvm.edu.
Ethan Putnam | Reporter (He/Him)
Ethan is a senior at UVM studying Neuroscience with an interest in human behavior. He is originally from Cabin John, MD and currently lives in Burlington, VT. He enjoys spending time outdoors, woodworking, photography, and exploring new ways to tell stories.
You can contact Ethan at ethan.putnam@uvm.edu
Adam Osha | Reporter (He/Him)
Adam is a junior at Castleton University majoring in Media and Communication with a minor in Sociology. Adam is from Randolph, Vermont. He likes storytelling-style writing and his hobbies include snowboarding, music, and foraging for food and natural medicine.
You can contact Adam at apo08200@vsc.edu.
Meredith Rathburn | Reporter (She/Her)
Meredith is a senior at UVM studying Anthropology with a concentration in global health and medicine. She has written, photographed, and illustrated for UVM’s newspaper, The Cynic, and has worked as a reporter for CNS since September 2020. Meredith hails from the DC area and is passionate about cultural affairs, reporting, and creating art. When she’s not uncovering the truth, you can find her gazing at the Lake Champlain sunset or laughing with friends.
You can contact Meredith at meredith.rathburn@uvm.edu.
Brooke Rubright | Reporter (She/Her)
Brooke Rubright is a senior at Castleton University majoring in Graphic Design and Media & Communication with a concentration in Public Relations, and minoring in Creative Marketing. A born and raised Vermonter, Brooke plans on staying in Vermont after graduation in May. She is the Communications Assistant for the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region as well as the President of Castleton’s Content Lab; a group of creative students assisting start-up businesses with their visual needs.
You can contact Brooke at bar08020@castleton.edu.
Gabriel Schwartz | Reporter (He/Him)
Gabriel is a senior at Castleton studying Media and Communication and Mathematics. He is from Salisbury, Connecticut and has done a variety of crazy things including backpacking around Europe for two weeks as well as converting a bus into an RV with his family to travel around the U.S.
You can contact Gabriel at gabriels1299@gmail.com.
Sarah Sciortino | Reporter (She/Her)
Sarah is a UVM senior from Long Island, NY majoring in Environmental studies. She is engaged with local progressive politics, and was a leader in UVM’s successful fossil fuel divestment movement. Sarah is passionate about climate change because of the existential threat it poses to our planet and the beings who we share the earth with. In her free time, she enjoys skiing, hiking, camping, drawing, and spending time with her cat, Lucy.
You can contact Sarah at sarah.sciortino@uvm.edu.
Emily Shedd | Reporter (She/Her)
Emily is a senior at UVM majoring in Psychological Science and minoring in Human Development and Family Studies. She currently lives in Burlington, VT and enjoys spending time with friends and finding beautiful outdoor views throughout Vermont. She also enjoys painting, photography, and is passionate about mental health activism. While this will be her first time pursuing journalism, she has always been interested in following local news, media, as well as listening to podcasts. She is looking forward to learning more about various communities through her reporting.
You can contact Emily at emily.shedd@uvm.edu.
Aris Sherwood | Reporter (She/Her)
Aris is a junior Media and Communication major with a concentration in journalism and dance minor at Castleton University. Born and raised in Rutland, Vermont, she writes for the Castleton Spartan and currently serves as the managing editor. She also has had work published in the Rutland Herald. Her biggest goal in life is to start her own women’s magazine that focuses on fashion, pop culture, and social issues. She enjoys kpop, cats, iced coffee, and babysitting Landon and Sara. You can also find her at the Rutland Chipotle wrapping burritos and frying chips.
You can contact Aris at aes03030@castleton.edu.
Tre Wofford |Reporter (He/Him)
Tre Wofford is a senior studying at UVM as a Writing major with a minor in Dance, originating from the Northeast Kingdom, VT. He's spent time working as a tutor for the UVM Writing Center, helping cover a vast variety of disciplines and topics, and hopes to cultivate his education in Journalism. As a long-sprinter for the varsity Track and Field team, he likes to spend his time physically active. Tre currently writes for The Winooski News, hoping to bring back the light and excitement local sports give communities.
You can contact Tre at raymond.wofford-III@uvm.edu.
Cam Tagatac | Video (He/Him)
Cam is a Junior at UVM studying Film and Television and Chinese. He works with the CNS videography team as a video editor and videographer. He grew up in Stowe attending SHS and currently lives in an apartment in Burlington. When he’s not doing school and video work, he enjoys snowboarding and playing guitar.
You can contact Cam at cameron.tagatac@uvm.edu.
Hunter Smith | Reporter (He/Him)
I’m a junior Media and Communication major with an undeclared concentration. I grew up in Panton, Vermont, close to Lake Champlain. On campus, I’ve been involved with the Castleton Spartan newspaper, as well as Election Day 2020 coverage for Community News. I plan on making my first foray into radio this semester, and in the 2021-22 season, I will be an assistant coach for the men’s basketball Team. Away from school, you can find me outside doing just about anything from skiing to hiking to fishing. I also enjoy practicing my instruments, screenwriting and playing basketball!
You can contact Hunter at hjs10020@csc.vsc.edu.
Camille Sweet | Reporter (She/Her)
Camille is a junior at UVM with a major in public communication and a double minor in applied design and business entrepreneurship. In her free time, she loves hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and all the fun Vermont activities. She is interested in journalism, graphic design, marketing, entrepreneurship and so much more! She has written about art and environmental issues and is eager to expand my portfolio.
Courtney Smith | Reporter (She/Her)
Courtney is a senior in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences studying Food Systems with a concentration in community development. She is originally from the little town of Hopedale, Massachusetts, and she can usually be found taking long walks around Burlington, reading, or scribbling comics. Her love of stories comes first and foremost from her father, who is a dramatic man.
You can contact Courtney at csmith96@uvm.edu
Joia Putnoi (She/Her)
Joia Putnoi is a junior majoring in English with a double minor in Environmental Studies and Reporting & Documentary Storytelling. Joia joined CNS to be part of a team that strives towards compelling and equitable storytelling. Joia is a DJ at WRUV and has hiked Vermont’s 273 mile Long Trail which runs from Massachusetts to Canada.
Jackson Moffett (He/Him)
Jackson is a Senior at the University of Vermont. He is studying political science with an aim to go into political campaigning and communications. He is from Morrisville Vermont. He wanted to go into reporting as it is something that greatly interests me and will greatly help my post-collegiate career! Outside of College, he likes to read and watch documentaries, as well as do political volunteer work!
Olivia Alexander (She/Her)
Olivia Alexander is a first-year student at UVM in the college of Arts and Science with an undeclared major. She is from Cambridge Massachusetts and enjoys playing for the club tennis team at UVM. Olivia joined CNS because she values being an active member of her community, whether Cambridge or Burlington and is eager to learn the mechanics of journalism in a very real-world setting.
Greta Close (She/Her)
Greta Close is a senior at UVM majoring in Global Studies and Religion, with a minor in Anthropology. She is originally from Norwich, Vermont and a former member of the Women’s Ice Hockey team at UVM. After spending the past year living and traveling in Wyoming, Utah, and Alaska, Greta is excited to be back in the Green Mountains getting to know more of the state she loves. She values this opportunity to connect with new Vermont communities this Fall through pursuing and publishing local news. Outside of work, Greta can be found in the mountains, hiking and biking, or out enjoying Burlington with her friends.
Zoe Colgan-Sellers (She/Her)
Zoe is currently a junior with a film major and a French minor! She joined CNS to get more film production experience, meet new people, and work with other students creatively on projects. In her free time, she enjoys photography, the outdoors, and traveling!
Lane Dibler (She/Her)
Lane Dibler is a Senior at UVM majoring in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s studies, as well as minoring in English. She believes in the power of narrative above all else and aspires to wield her words responsibly. When she is not at work or in class, Lane can be found editing audio clips, drawing comics for UVM’s alternative news Paper - the Water tower, watching cartoons or co-leading UVM’s newly resurrected, Film Society. Though, originally from St. Louis, Missouri; Lane is eager to interact with the Vermont community through her CNS journey.
Max a junior at UVM Studying Environmental Studies and Political Science. Max is extremely interested in environmental issues, and more specifically, how the governments of towns and states respond to environmental issues. Currently, Max is writing for the Essex Reporter, but am looking to report on environmental news wherever it pops up.
Eric Johnson (He/Him)
Eric lives in the NNE of Burlington with his 11-year-old son, who is his best friend. He is a fourth-year junior at UVM majoring in psychology with a minor in writing and coaching. He is a proud father of three kids and coaches Little League and Umpire, amongst others. A goal of his is to bring change to the Burlington community. He has hopes to open and establish his own “Office” where we can work with those without homes, disadvantaged youth, substance disorder, and anyone who needs to be heard.
Rachel Weed | Digital Editor (She/Her)
Rachel Weed graduated from UVM in Spring 2021 with a degree in Environmental Studies and Sociology. During her last semester at UVM, she interned for Sustainable Transportation Vermont managing their social media accounts. She is passionate about environmental and social justice so is excited to be helping out local newspapers. Outside of work, you can usually find her hiking, swimming, and spending time with friends.
Megan Schneider (She/Her)
Megan is a senior at Saint Michael's College majoring in Media Studies, Journalism, and Digital Arts and minoring in Gender Studies. She is from Wells, Maine and have always been interested in ways she can connect with others by telling their stories. Last year she was the photographer for her college's marketing department and am currently working at our Center for Women and Gender. She is also president of the Feminist Club and vice president of the Active Minds club on campus. She loves photography, writing, traveling, and skiing.
Sofia Mendez (She/Her)
Sofia Mendez is a student reporter in her third year at UVM. She is originally from Paraguay and has lived in the U.S for the past six years. Sofia is majoring in Global Studies and minoring in Latin American Studies.
Gabe Bango (he/him)
Gabe is a sophomore majoring in Music Business and Technology and minoring in Spanish. He grew up in Woodstock, Vermont, and spends most of his time creating music whether it’s by himself or with his friends. He also loves to snowboard and play with his dog Osa.
Sarah Blow
Sarah is a senior at the University of Vermont majoring in Public Communications with a minor in dance. She hails from Glens Falls, NY and grew up reading her fathers news articles in the daily paper. Since then Sarah has developed her own journalistic skills through a variety of internships with the Center for Research on Vermont and is excited to continue to improve during her final semester with the Community News Service.
Thaina Calix (She/Her)
Thaina is a senior majoring in business administration with a minor in psychology. Born in Honduras and raised in New York City, she enjoys writing, and learning new things. She is passionate about exposing awareness on many topics including mental health, and overall wellbeing. Also, she enjoys traveling, trying new foods and exploring different cultures.
Mal Flynn (He/Him)
Mal is a senior at UVM majoring in English with a minor in history. He is originally from Hartland, Vermont and currently lives in Burlington. He enjoys skiing, hiking, and camping in his free time. On campus he is a member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity, and the Club Alpine Ski Racing Team. Mal is looking forward to covering stories in local communities and helping to keep local journalism alive.
Abbie Giles
Abbie Giles is a junior environmental studies major at UVM with minors in reporting and documentary storytelling, and sustainable landscape horticulture. She is originally from Dallas, Texas but now lives in Burlington for school. Abbie is excited to learn about the local community through the lens of a journalist. When there aren't too many due dates, she spends her days trying out new recipes and asking roommates to be the judge of how good the pie was.
Paloma Herrera (She/Her)
Paloma Herrera is a sophomore majoring in Film and Television Studies major with a minor in Writing. Paloma is a local from South Burlington and loves to go to church street, hang out with her cat, Marshmallow, and knit. Paloma has a passion for storytelling and can’t wait to, through CNS, connect with the stories of her community.
Ben Keil
Ben is a Senior at the University of Vermont, graduating Spring 2022 with an undergraduate in Music Technology and Business, and a minor in Computer Scientist. From Northern New Jersey, he moved up to Vermont to enjoy the great skiing and scenery. He joined the team as the Podcast Specialist in the Spring of 2022, taking command of recording, editing, and producing podcasts. Ben wants to dive into the world of Audio Production / Engineering, be it Podcasts, Music Recording, or Sound Design, and this is the first stop along the way.
Pax Logiodice (They/Them)
Pax Logiodice is a junior at UVM, with a major in English and a Minor in history. They grew up in Nyack, New York. In addition to reporting, they also write short stories. In their free time, they enjoy playing music, reading, and crocheting.
Stephen Looke (He/Him)
Stephen is a senior at UVM majoring in Political Science and minoring in Philosophy. He grew up in East Montpelier Vermont where he was an avid runner and musician. He currently lives in Burlington where he enjoys playing board games and sailing on Lake Champlain.
Eleanor Lowen (She/Her)
Eleanor Lowen is a junior at the University of Vermont. She is majoring in political science and minoring in math. Eleanor grew up in Bedford, Massachusetts. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, singing, and writing fiction. Eleanor is excited to put her writing skills to use in a new way at the Community News Service.
Dom is a Junior majoring in English and minoring in Law and Society. He grew up in Essex, Vermont, and enjoys such activities as reading, writing, cooking and playing sports. He is also a culture writer for The Vermont Cynic, UVM's independent newspaper, and is excited to delve deeper into local journalism with the Community News Service.
Mae Nagusky (She/Her)
Mae is a sophomore at UVM majoring in Film Studies with a minor in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. She is from Cleveland, Ohio and has always felt driven toward connecting with others through story. Mae is passionate about podcasts, the mountains, and singing songs around the campfire with friends.
Sophie is a senior at UVM pursuing a major in political science and a minor in reporting, documenting and storytelling. She grew up in Hollis, New Hampshire and enjoys all aspects of journalism, be it writing, photography or video production. This is Sophie's second semester with CNS and she is looking forward to diving deeper into the experience and connecting with new people. In her spare time she enjoys cross country skiing, hiking, and reading the books she keeps saying she'll get to.
Karson Petty (He/Him)
Karson is a junior at UVM, pursuing an English major, Philosophy minor, and Reporting and Documentary Storytelling minor. A born-and-raised Vermonter from the village of Townshend, Karson enjoys the vibrant “city” life that Burlington has to offer. Playing basketball, hiking, biking, reading, writing, and watching movies are some of his favorite activities. Karson sees the Community News Service as an opportunity to stay connected to his small-town roots while gaining professional journalism experience.
Aiden Philbrick
Aiden Philbrick is a freshman at UVM, and a psych major with no minor yet. He took CNS because when he finally got into his classes it was one of the only ones available, but he is interested to see what it has to offer. In his free time he does things with friends, skis, goes on runs, and throws frisbee and disc golf.
Jack Pitblado is a junior studying political science at UVM. He’s from Connecticut and first took interest in politics through advocacy groups and protests. On his free time, he enjoys snowboarding and playing the guitar with his friends.
Halle Segal (She/Her)
Halle is a senior at the University of Vermont, majoring in English with a concentration in writing and a minor in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. She grew up in the suburbs outside of Philadelphia where she developed a strong interest for people, travel, photography and video-making, and words. Halle spends her time writing as much as possible, and is excited to see where these passions take her after leaving Burlington.
Taylor Slonaker (She/Her)
Taylor Slonaker is a junior at UVM majoring in English and minoring in Political Science and Spanish. She transferred to UVM in the Fall of 2021 from Loyola University of Chicago. She loves the theater and auditions for plays whenever she has the time. She enjoys reading, writing, singing, and getting outdoors in her free time. She is passionate about telling people's stories, especially those that are not always heard.
Krizzia Soto-Villanueva
Krizzia Soto-Villanueva is a PhD student in Food Systems and a graduate fellow at the Gund Institute for Environment. She hails from Toa Alta, Puerto Rico and is now based in Burlington. Before moving to Vermont, she obtained a bachelors degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, and Foreign Languages (Portuguese and French) at the University of Puerto Rico. Krizzia is interested in environmental justice, climate and agriculture, and creative science communications. She loves long drives, public radio, and hosting dinner parties. Krizzia also loves world folk music and aspires to someday stick to an instrument long enough to justify buying a fiddle.
Originally from the small town of Hubbardston, Massachusetts, Dylan is a Senior at UVM studying both English and Geography as a double major. He is passionate about listening to and telling stories as a means of understanding and exploring the world around him. In his free time, he loves to read, write, travel, and spend time with good friends.
You can contact Dylan at dstreb@uvm.edu
Madeline Waterman (She/Her)
Madeline is a senior at the University of Vermont majoring in Wildlife Biology. Her minors include Plant Biology and Reporting, and Documentary Storytelling. She grew up on a mini-farm in the rural town of Hyde Park, Vermont, where she developed a passion for the natural world. Madeline has contributed to UVM’s Headwaters Magazine with an article about her experiences traveling across remote areas of the U.S. and connecting with wildlife professionals along a solo three-month road trip. She will take on the challenge of being this internship’s first photojournalist.
Emmett Avery (He/Him)
Emmett grew up homeschooled in rural north-central Vermont. Reading nonfiction, particularly on politics and history, was an early interest that naturally led toward journalism. He reported for the Hardwick Gazette and Barton Chronicle before moving to Burlington, VT, to attend the University of Vermont. When he is not reading, studying, or pursuing a reclusive source, Emmett is most likely in the woods chasing the best powder, single track and sunsets the Green Mountains have to offer. Emmett is a sophomore pursuing a major in Political Science with a minor in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling.
Jenny Koppang (She/Her)
Jenny is a senior at UVM studying Global Studies with a minor in English. She has an affinity for storytelling, nature, and people and aims to bridge these passions through the art of journalism. Though originally from Northern Virginia, Jenny is excited to engage in local Vermont culture and foster community involvement through her reporting!
Andrew Connelly
Andrew is a Junior at UVM studying Music Technology and Business, and minoring in Sustainable Landscape Horticulture. Through the Community News Service he produces podcast episodes for Local Wire, bringing VT stories to life with recorded interviews, music, and audio editing tools. He also interns at Big Heavy World, a nonprofit Burlington radio station with a focus on promoting VT music. In his free time, Andrew enjoys skiing, and writing and recording music with a variety of instruments and friends.
Doug Phinney (He/Him)
Doug is a Junior at the University of Vermont where he is studying English with a minor in History. Doug is originally from the Greater Boston area and now resides in Burlington. He enjoys spending his free time outdoors: cycling, skiing, hiking, and bird watching.
Cory Dawson | Managing Editor (He/Him)
Cory Dawson is a reporter and editor with experience at several Vermont media outlets, including stints at VTDigger.org, The Burlington Free Press and the Associated Press bureau in Montpelier. Cory recently graduated with his master’s degree in Journalism from Georgetown University, and while in Washington D.C. he worked with the NBC Investigative Unit and the Student Press Law Center. He is a 2016 UVM graduate and former editor of The Vermont Cynic.
John Donnelly | Story Editor
John Donnelly is a former journalist at the Boston Globe, Miami Herald, The Associated Press and the Burlington Free Press, with past assignments ranging from the Northeast Kingdom to sub-Saharan Africa.
Alexa Drucker | Digital Editor (She/Her)
Alexa Drucker graduated from UVM in Fall 2021 with a degree in Environmental Studies and a minor in Japanese. During her last semester at UVM, she interned for Sustainable Transportation Vermont as the manager of the STVT twitter. Alexa has a passion for sustainable food, transportation, and urban planning, as well as for environmental and social justice. Outside of work, you can find her cooking, biking, hiking, at a coffee shop, or hanging out with friends.
Leah Kelleher | Audio Editor (She/Her)
Leah is a recent graduate from the University of Vermont with a B.S. in Environmental Studies. Her love for sound and local stories grew from her role as producer of Vermont podcast, Mudseason, and forestry podcast, Heartwood. She currently works as a freelance audio artist and producer on a number of podcast projects. Leah has also released her own environmental storytelling project called Attune. When she's not podcasting, you can find her in the Colorado mountains mushrooming, cross country skiing, or following bird song.
Abbie is a Sophomore from South Florida, and she is now attending The University of Vermont to study Data Journalism and Philosophy. This is Abbie’s third semester in Community News Service, and she is excited to continue writing for local communities in Vermont. Outside of work, she enjoys photography, snowboarding, and reading.
Noah Lafaso (he/him)
Noah is a rising Junior at UVM, studying English and French as a double major. Always passionate about literature, he developed the drive to write in tandem. With CNS, he hopes to use his writing abilities to connect Vermonters to their community. In his free time, he enjoys reading, writing, listening to music, and exploring nature.
Pax Logiodice (They/them)
Pax Logiodice is a junior at UVM, with a major in English and a Minor in history. They grew up in Nyack, New York. In addition to reporting, they also write short stories. In their free time, they enjoy playing music, reading, and crocheting.
Karson Petty (he/him)
Karson is a junior at UVM, pursuing an English major, Philosophy minor, and Reporting and Documentary Storytelling minor. A born-and-raised Vermonter from the village of Townshend, Karson enjoys the vibrant “city” life that Burlington has to offer. Playing basketball, hiking, biking, reading, writing, and watching movies are some of his favorite activities. Karson sees the Community News Service as an opportunity to stay connected to his small-town roots while gaining professional journalism experience.
Taylor Slonaker
Taylor Slonaker is a junior at UVM majoring in English and minoring in Political Science and Spanish. She transferred to UVM in the Fall of 2021 from Loyola University of Chicago. She loves the theater and auditions for plays whenever she has the time. She enjoys reading, writing, singing, and getting outdoors in her free time. She is passionate about telling people's stories, especially those that are not always heard.
Maggie Calzaretta (she/her)
Maggie Calzaretta (she/her) is a rising senior at UVM studying political science, french, and biology. She is a member of the UVM Women’s Club Lacrosse team and spends her free time working out, playing guitar and piano, and reading about national news. Originally from a small town in New York, she understands the importance of community and looks forward to gaining journalistic skills through CNS necessary for influencing change on a higher level. She is passionate about candid, locally-based news essential to a high-functioning society on all levels.
Stella Schaefer-Surdez (she/her)
I am a junior at the University of Vermont double-majoring in Political Science and Sociology. I am originally from Montclair, New Jersey. As a first-time reporter, I am excited to engage with local communities and connect them through the sharing of information! In my free time, I love to discover new music, explore nature, read, and spend time with friends!
Samantha Watson
Samantha is a rising senior at UVM studying English, Linguistics, and French, originally from the Berkshires, Massachusetts. Passionate about the writing involved with people and their stories, she is enthused to be a part of local journalism in Chittenden county. She is a fervent lover of the outdoors and loves reading literature, poetry, cereal boxes, old receipts, road signs - just about everything.
Owen Amsden (Video)
My name is Owen Amsden and I work for the Community News Service at UVM. My role is videography and I’m currently a free agent. I’m a senior majoring in Film & Television with a Global Studies minor. I participated in communities of Practice summer 2021 but in a slightly different role. I grew up in Vermont, living in a couple areas in Chittenden County. I’m also a member of the UVM track and XC team
Mae Nagusty (Podcast)
Mae is a junior at UVM majoring in Film Studies with minors in Reporting and Documentary Storytelling and Sociology. She is from Cleveland, Ohio and has always loved connecting with others through story. First hand, she knows the power of sound in creating empathy for one another. Mae is passionate about podcasts, the mountains, and cooking delicious dinners with loved ones.
Kira Schaefer (Podcast)
Kira is a sophomore at UVM and is majoring in public communications with a concentration in journalism and hopes to attend law school after undergrad. She is from Westchester, New York and runs the weekly news podcast for the Vermont Cynic. Kira has a passion for news, dance, and making meaningful connections with others.
Autumn Crabtree
Autumn is a rising senior at UVM studying Political Science and Linguistics. She is from Canton, New York, a small town close to the Canadian border. In her free time she enjoys hiking, skiing, climbing, reading, baking, and serves as captain for the UVM Dressage team.
Lejla Delahmetovic
Lejla is a rising senior at UVM. Studying sociology and political science, she hopes to pursue a career in research or policy. In her free time, she enjoys being outside, reading, writing, and working with clay!
Harrison Gaylord
Harrison is a junior at UVM majoring in English and minoring in Psychology. Harrison is from Newton, Massachusetts, and has a cat named Maximus and a dog named Oliver still residing there, who miss him very much. Harrison loves the outdoors and traveling, hiking Mount Mansfield, or skiing the mountain when the weather and traffic allow it.
Lucie Novelline
Lucie is a senior double majoring in dance and political science, with a minor in gender, sexuality and women’s studies. She is a tutor at UVM’s undergraduate writing center and spends most of her free time at dance rehearsals. Outside of school, she enjoys reading and going to bakeries. She is very excited to work with everyone in the communities of practice program and learn more about local issues in Vermont!
Arnie Alpert
Arnie Alpert served as the American Friends Service Committee’s New Hampshire Program Director (or co-director) from 1981 to 2020. During that time, he coordinated and supported numerous campaigns for social justice and peace, including efforts to repeal the state’s death penalty and establish a state holiday honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Over the years he trained hundreds of people in techniques for effective, nonviolent activism. He also wrote and edited newsletters, co-hosted a weekly radio show, and published hundreds of opinion columns. Now retired, he writes the “Active with the Activists” column for InDepthNH.org and publishes a website, nhradicalhistory.org. Arnie lives in Canterbury.
Will Stanbury (he/him)
I'm a rising senior at UVM, with a major in Economics and a minor in Chinese. I'm originally from Auburn, AL, but I spent my first 5 semesters of undegrad at Reed College in Portland, OR. I transferred here this spring. I like to read novels, exercise, and hang out with my cat, Prismo.
William J. Kanteres
Will is a lifelong NH resident, and a fervent defender of democracy. Growing up in the “First in The Nation” state, he has been active on countless local and statewide campaigns and has been a consultant and senior staff member of 3 national Presidential campaigns. He is an active real estate broker in Manchester where he lives with his wife and teenage son.
Charolette Burns (They/she)
Ivy Kirby
Ivy Kirby is a senior majoring in Studio Art and minoring in Reporting and Storytelling. This is her last semester at UVM and she is excited to see what she can do with this internship. She hopes to become a photojournalist after she graduates.
Téa van Linde
Téa van Linde is a junior, majoring in both Sociology and English with a concentration in writing and minoring in Theatre. She works as a Resident Advisor and runs campus events as a member of the UVM Program Board. In her free time, she enjoys swimming at various beaches and waterfalls around Burlington with her friends.
Gillian Kimmel
My name is Gillian Kimmel, I’m a Junior and an English and Film and Television Studies double major. If you need any more information than that, let me know!
Alexa Lewis
Alexa Lewis is a senior Political Science major and Economics minor from Washington, DC. She enjoys reading, hiking, and caring for her houseplant collection.
Nora Thomas
My name is Nora Thomas and I am a sophomore at UVM. I am from Northern Virginia and I am majoring in environmental studies in the College of Arts and Sciences. I am super excited to explore the intersection between the environment and the media!
Rachel Tobler (She/her)
Rachel is a senior at the University of Vermont studying Environmental Science with a double minor is Geospatial Technologies & Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. Originally from Denver, Colorado she loves to do all things outdoors, her favorite activities being skiing and biking.
Emma Otten
My name is Emma Otten, and I’m a current sophomore at UVM studying political science. I enjoy nature, creative writing, and crocheting and love spending time with my family and friends. I’m really interested in environmental policy and am excited to learn more about public communication and interaction with the news!
Jared Pap
Jared is a senior studying sociology and public communications at UVM. A San Francisco native, he loves reading and listening to various kinds of journalism and is excited to join the CNS audio team. You can find him around Burlington with his friends or geeking out and consuming top-tier journalism about his favorite sports teams!
Laurie Graham (She/Her)
Laurie Graham is a middle school science teacher. She has a degree in Environmental Studies and Mass Communications from Franklin Pierce University. Laurie enjoys exploring local areas near her home in Underhill, kayaking on Lake Champlain and hiking with her rescue pup, Winnie.
Gwenna Peters (She/Her)
Gwenna is a retired physical therapist who enjoys spending time with her grandson, skiing, playing with her two dogs, cooking and reading. You can find her volunteering with the rotary and garden club around Waterbury. Gwenna also writes for the Waterbury Roundabout.
Louise Scoville (She/Her)
Louise Scoville is a senior at the University of Vermont studying English and Film &Television Studies. When she isn't writing, Louise loves backpacking, reading, and playing guitar. Louise also currently serves as Chair of the UVM Program Board, planning campus-wide events for students. Originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Louise is excited to dig into Vermont news.
Emily Semaya (She/her)
Emily is a sophomore at UVM pursuing a major in English and a minor in film and/or sociology. She has always had a passion for reading, writing, and storytelling, and hopes that she will be able to translate that into broadcasting here at CNS. Originally from a small town in Connecticut, in her free time Emily enjoys hiking, reading, skiing, and of course hanging out with her adorable puppy who’s back at home.
Alice Roberge
Alice is a retired nurse practitioner and science teacher. She also has an MFA in fiction. In addition to volunteering at a restorative justice center and other organizations, her interests include writing (journalism, fiction and poetry), landscaping for wildlife, gardening, conservation, and playing the cello.
Mason Singer
Mason Singer is an award winning graphic designer and publications consultant who has spoken about the elements and social impact of graphic design at a number of schools and workshops. He is a past member of the faculty at the Governor’s Institute on the Arts. Mason has designed hundreds of publications and produced a broad range of work, including magazines, books, guides, posters, brochures, annual reports, handbills, logos, and much more — mostly all recycable.
For more than two decades his studio, Laughing Bear Associates, has provided design, photography, illustration and editing services to nonprofit organizations, publishers, business, government, academia, and individuals throughout the northeast.
Valentyn Smith
Valentyn Smith is a Brooklynite living in Vermont, where she writes for The Montpelier Bridge. She earned an MFA from VCFA.
Melissa Ruiz
“Jill” of several trades, mastering one—the trade of local news. Melissa Ruiz is an amateur freelance journalist with over five years of experience reporting on schools, students, small business owners, people of interest, and more. With the world lousy with bad news, Ruiz strives to find the stories that restore faith in humanity. When she isn’t writing, Melissa is a doting “scrunchy,” “unschooling” stay at home mother to three boys under the age of 5.
Ella Weigel
Ella is a senior Environmental Science major concentrating in Ecological Design with a double minor in Green Building & Reporting and Documentary Storytelling. Originally from South Jersey, in her free time she enjoys cooking, playing racket sports.
Lauryn Katz
Lauryn Katz is a third-year environmental and Italian studies student at the University of Vermont. She is originally from southern New Jersey, close to Philadelphia. Lauryn is the president of the Flow Arts Club at UVM and loves to dance, cook, and dream about her future travel plans. She is excited to learn the trade and hone her storytelling with the CNS program!
Isabella Infante
Isabella is a junior at UVM studying Political Science and Religion. She is originally from Minneapolis, but has lived in Brazil, Singapore, Mexico, and various parts of the United States. Bella is also a member of the UVM sailing team. She loves traveling and adventures and is excited to venture further into the innerworkings of Vermont.
Aylin Kursat
My name is Aylin Kursat. I am a junior at UVM, majoring in Global Studies with a minor in Reporting, Documentary, and Storytelling.
Cora Smith
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Deniz Dutton
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Sam Jefferson
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Samantha Watson
Woody Laidlaw
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Kaylyn Bills
