Emma Paradis

34 | Manager of Policy & Strategic Initiatives, Common Good Vermont, a program of United Way of Northwest Vermont
Residence: Chittenden

Career Highlights: The career highlight I’m most proud of is organizing the first Vermont Nonprofit Summit in 2024. This inaugural event brought together more than two-hundred leaders from across the state in the nonprofit sector and beyond for a day of learning and connection. One year later this November, we look forward to the 2025 Summit which has doubled in scale.

Community Involvement: My community involvement includes serving on (advisory) boards, being part of a community garden, supporting local organizations, and participating in local events. I’m grateful that my job enables me to connect and work with all of the amazing nonprofits, and their people, who contribute to the health and vibrancy of our state.

What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: I was motivated to live and work in Vermont by loving where I’m from! There is something special about Vermont that I haven’t found anywhere else.

Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is that I get to engage in meaningful work in support of Vermont’s nonprofit sector, but that looks different every day. From advocacy, to fostering connections, to planning events, I love that I get to work with a range of partners on initiatives that contribute to the vital work of Vermont nonprofits.

Most inspiring mentor and why: I’ve been lucky to have many mentors over the years, but most recently, I want to appreciate Martin Hahn, Common Good Vermont’s director. Martin is thoughtful, compassionate, and humble – he lifts up those around him and never loses sight of what is important in the work we do. I am grateful for his leadership that has supported the growth and success of both our team and organization, and he’s truly a wonderful human being to work with.

What is the best career advice: The best career advice I have received is that there is more than one way to do things.

Favorite Vermont escape: My favorite Vermont escape is to the mountains!