Vermont Business Magazine announced the winners of its inaugural Rising Stars award. The list is comprised of 40 winners under the age of 40. Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges for their commitment to business growth, professional excellence and involvement in their communities.

“We are thrilled by the response to this initiative to recognize these up-and-coming leaders,” said VBM Publisher John Boutin. “We received many outstanding nominations and the judges had a difficult time getting it down to only 40. Those who believe Vermont is losing its young talent need only look at these outstanding individuals. It’s not just about business. It’s about them making a difference in their communities.”

“Based on the success of this first effort and the buzz it’s generated, I’m sure the number of nominees will only grow from across the state in the coming years,” Boutin said.

“I was very impressed with the level of enthusiasm evident within the applications for the nominee. With over seventy applicants it clearly shows the quality of young talent in Vermont,” said Brigitte Ritchie, Vice President, Community Relations, Citizens Bank. Ritchie served as a judge for Rising Stars.

FAST FACTS: Of the 40 honorees, there were 20 men and 20 women. There were 21 from Chittenden County, 10 from Washington County, four from Lamoille, three from Caledonia and one each from Rutland and Windham counties. The average age of the winners was just under 29.