Tom Bazzano
34 | Managing Consultant, OneDigital
Residence: Chittenden
Career Highlights: I am most proud of completing the prestigious OneDigital Leadership Essentials program and earning the unique distinction of being the first participant in company history to present a capstone project directly to our CEO. This experience not only strengthened my leadership skills but also allowed me to showcase my vision and commitment to driving innovation and growth within the organization.
Community Involvement: Since graduating from UVM, I have remained committed to giving back through my fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha (Lambda Delta Chapter-UVM). I’ve been honored to serve in several volunteer leadership roles, including Chapter Advisor, Chairman of the Advisory Board, and President of the UVM Greek Alumni Advisory Council. A highlight of this service was helping the chapter raise more than $150,000 for Alzheimer’s research through Seth Rogen’s Hilarity for Charity program—an effort that earned four national Smythe Awards (recognizing the top 5% of chapters nationwide) and culminated in Seth Rogen’s special initiation into our UVM chapter.
Today, my most important community role is at home as a father of two young kids, working hard to raise them to be kind, engaged Vermonters who will positively shape our brave little state. I also serve as President of my neighborhood’s Homeowners Association, where I advocate for the voices and interests of our community at both the local and state level.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: Vermont’s natural beauty first drew me here, but it was the genuine kindness and culture of caring among its residents that inspired me to stay. That same spirit guides my work in employee benefits, where I strive to support the health and well-being of Vermonters and their communities.
Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is being a trusted advisor to my clients, helping them navigate complex benefit decisions with confidence. I also love mentoring my team and sharing my passion for technology and innovation to support their growth. And, of course, brokering multi-million-dollar benefits deals is always an exciting challenge!
Most inspiring mentor and why: My most inspiring mentor is Sena Meilleur, OneDigital Vermont Market Leader. She has taught me the importance of leading with compassion while still “building for better,” and I’ve seen firsthand how that balance creates both strong teams and real results for our clients. Her guidance has shaped my own leadership style and motivates me to inspire my team to greatness to make a meaningful impact for hardworking Vermonters we serve. #WhatWouldSenaDo
What is the best career advice: The best career advice I received came during my senior year of college at the Pike U Leadership Summit: don’t overspecialize and always stay curious. That guidance has served me well as I work with a wide variety of Vermont businesses, constantly embracing new and unique challenges on their behalf.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: When I was a kid, I asked my dad if I could play with his “sweepers,” and he agreed. What he did not realize was that I meant the tassels on his brand-new Ferragamo dress shoes, which I cut off to use as little brooms. Needless to say, he was not amused.
What would most people be surprised to learn about you: Most people are surprised to learn that one of my front teeth is fake. I’ll let you try to guess which one it is!
What three words best describe you: Compassionate. Driven. Genuine.
Favorite Vermont escape: My favorite Vermont escape is a spirited fall drive over the Appalachian Gap with no traffic, the windows down, and Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” blasting.
Favorite Vermont season: Winter is my favorite Vermont season, as I’m an avid skier and snowmobiler. I’ve always preferred the cold over the heat, which makes even Vermont’s harshest winters enjoyable.
Favorite Social Media and why: Honestly, none. I prefer connecting with people in real life. LOL.
What is your favorite smell: My favorite smell is walking into Shelburne Sugarworks with the evaporator in full swing. Nothing compares to the smell of maple sugaring season in Vermont.
Person you would most like to share a Vermont beverage with: My mom. She lost her battle with a very rare cancer in 2019, and I would give anything to have a Vermont beverage with her again.
What one song is on your playlist that are you embarrassed to tell your best friend: I’m not embarrassed at all, but Spotify ranks me in the top 0.1% of Bluey listeners. My best friends all know this too because they are also dads. #dadlife
What career goal(s) would you like to accomplish in the next 5-10 years: Over the next 5–10 years, I want to really lean into my passion project of leveraging AI-driven software to transform the way our consulting practice operates. My goal is to empower my team with innovative tools that make us more efficient, more insightful, and better positioned to lead the industry forward.
What’s the ideal next move for you in your career: My ideal next move is to stay right where I am, continuing to grow with OneDigital. I feel fortunate to be in a role that allows me to keep learning, leading, and innovating while making a meaningful impact for my team, our clients, and thousands of hardworking Vermonters.
Drawing on your experiences, what advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in community service: My advice is simple: just start. Dive in, get involved, and you’ll quickly discover the many ways you can make a real difference.