Franklin Cody
26 | Constituent Services Manager, Office of Governor Phil Scott
Residence: Bennington
Career Highlights: I’m proud to serve Vermonters who reach out to the Governor’s Office to have their voices heard and to help them navigate state government resources. I find it very fulfilling when I am able to connect Vermonters with services that help make a difference in their life. I believe it is important that our government is responsive and attentive to the people it serves. I’m also proud of earning my commission as an Infantry Officer in the Vermont Army National Guard. It’s an honor to serve my country, my state and my community.
Community Involvement: I currently serve as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for Shires Young Professionals (SYP), which serves the Bennington County area in. I’m passionate about SYP because our mission is to build community and a sense of connection among younger Vermonters, which must play a role in solving our state’s biggest problem: our demographics crisis. Additionally, over the last three years I’ve helped co-manage the Bennington Soccer Charity Cup, an annual month-long soccer tournament focused on building community among adult soccer players in the Southern Vermont region. All proceeds from the tournament are donated to a charity of the winning team’s choice. This summer, we had over ten teams and one hundred players participate. Over the last three years, we’ve raised and donated $13,000 to various local charities, including a Bennington food shelf and Rutland-area flood relief efforts. I’ve also enjoyed volunteering several times for Garlic Town USA, and I’m a proud member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks Lodge #567.
I take pride in honoring the memory of those who have made a positive impact in my life and my community. With the support of many friends and former classmates, I led the effort to establish and fund the “Cody Surprise Memorial Scholarship” through our fraternity’s alumni association at the University of Vermont (UVM). Cody Surprise—a Vermonter, veteran, and UVM student—tragically drowned in 2022. Issuing the first scholarship was deeply meaningful, especially considering how much the fraternity meant to him. And, every year since graduating from Mount Anthony Union High School, I’ve volunteered for the Lee Goldsmith Memorial Soccer Tournament. Lee Goldsmith was a proud Mount Anthony soccer alumnus who tragically passed to cancer, and the tournament helps preserve his memory and passion for soccer.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: I’m a seventh-generation Vermonter, and I grew up with an appreciation of what it means to be from a small town in Vermont. Our state’s tight-knit communities, beautiful natural landscapes, and—of course—family, keep me from considering living anywhere else.
Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is being able to play a small part on Governor Scott’s team. Every day, I learn first-hand public service, effective leadership, and good governance from some of the state’s best leaders. At a time when politics seems more divisive and vitriolic than ever, I’m incredibly honored to support the Governor’s civil, respectful, and common-sense approach to governing.
Most inspiring mentor and why: My grandfather, Art Lemieux, was an impactful role model for me growing up. He taught me early the importance of being patient, prepared, and dedicated to family. He was a proud Vermonter and shaped a lot of the values I have today.
What is the best career advice: Failures and setbacks are a constant in life. What will set you apart from others is your ability to learn from each one.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: I’m a big soccer fan and lifelong Everton F.C. supporter. Up the Toffees!
What three words best describe you: Hardworking, outgoing, and empathetic.
Favorite Vermont escape: Prospect Mountain in Woodford, Vermont—especially after a fresh coating of snow—is my favorite winter escape. I grew up cross-country skiing there, so my bias is showing, but I genuinely believe Prospect offers some of the best trails in the state.
Favorite Vermont season: Fall is my favorite season—not only because Vermont’s foliage is so beautiful, but also because it reminds me of fall soccer as a kid. The changing leaves and crisp mornings always bring back so many pleasant memories.
Favorite downtime activity: During the summer, it’s going out for a run or heading to the gym. In the winter, it’s downhill or cross-country skiing. All of these help clear my head after a long day.
Favorite Social Media and why: Facebook, hands down. If you use it properly, Facebook can be an excellent way to connect, engage, and learn more about what is going on in your community and across the state.
What is your favorite smell: A fresh cup of black coffee. Preferably Green Mountain Coffee Dark Magic.
Person you would most like to share a Vermont beverage with: Matt Cohen with Fiddlehead Brewing Company, so I can learn the secret to what makes their beer so good!
If you had unlimited access to funds, which cause(s) would you support: A cause I would support with unlimited funds is suicide prevention, especially for veterans. No one should ever feel alone enough to consider making that decision.
What one song is on your playlist that are you embarrassed to tell your best friend: I Love Rock ’n’ Roll by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts helps get me up and energized for an early morning.