Join the Vermont Global Exchange at Hula Lakeside for a morning of dynamic conversation and locally-rooted, globally-minded connections.
The Vermont Global Exchange (VGE) brings together Vermont’s globally engaged community—including nonprofits, businesses, higher education, philanthropy, government, civic organizations, and internationally focused professionals—to strengthen relationships, share ideas, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
This year’s gathering creates space for honest conversation about how Vermont organizations working internationally are navigating rapid change while building a stronger, more connected community. As funding landscapes shift and longstanding structures evolve, organizations are being pushed to adjust quickly and rethink how they operate.
This interactive discussion will highlight resilience, adaptation, and practical strategies for moving work forward during uncertainty. Through facilitated conversation and peer exchange, participants will reflect on their experiences, learn from others across sectors, and explore approaches that support sustained impact and collaboration.
Join us for an open, energizing conversation with Vermont’s internationally engaged leaders as we explore how to stay resilient, deepen relationships, and build a more collaborative future together.
This is a FREE event; however, registration is required. Coffee, teas, and breakfast provided.
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Agenda
08:45 AM - Doors Open
Breakfast and informal networking
09:00 AM - Welcoming Remarks
With Fran Stoddard
09:25 AM - Featured Perspectives
The Future of International Engagement: What’s Next? Edward McMahon
Navigating Change in a Shifting Resource Environment, Steve Schmida
Building Resilient Organizations for the Future, Missie Thurston
10:00 AM - Panel Q&A
10:15 AM - Facilitated Small-Group Discussion Sessions
Diving deeper into the topics, participants will select one of the three speaker-facilitated discussions to join.
10:45 PM - Full Group Report-Out & Reflections
11:00 AM - Closing Remarks
With Fran Stoddard and Patricia Preston
While the formal program concludes, please feel welcome to stay and network in Hula’s communal spaces with friends, old and new.
Featured Perspectives
Moderator
Fran Stoddard, Co-Founder, Vermont Global Exchange
Panelist
Edward McMahon, Adjunct Associate Professor, Department of Community Development and Applied Economics and the Department of Political Science, University of Vermont
Panelist
Steve Schmida, Founder and CEO, Resonance Global
Panelist
Missie Thurston, Head of Strategic Communications, Population Media Center