We are so excited to introduce you to the two newest members of our community! Last year our Board of Directors voted to expand their membership to include community members who are aligned with and passionate about the mission of the Vermont Network. We are thrilled to announce that our first two community board members are Lisa Ryan and Marybeth Redmond! Yestersday they joined staff in our office to complete their board orientation and it was so great to spend time with them and get to know them better. Read on to find out more about these dynamic new additions to our community!

Lisa Ryan (she/her)

What are you passionate about? I am passionate about working towards a society where all voices are heard and valued, systems of oppression are dismantled, and equity is at the center of everything we do.

Why are you excited to join the VT Network Board? I love the Vermont Network—I love the people, the mission, and the communities that it both creates and serves.  I am SO excited to be part of it all!

When you envision a violence-free VT what is the first thing that comes to mind for you? Resiliency.

One thing you would like people to know about you? My love for dogs and rabbits is beyond.

Marybeth Redmond (she/her)

What are you passionate about? For more than 20 years, I have assumed various community-focused roles in Vermont- as state policymaker,nonprofit communications director, digital storytelling instructor, and “inside”-writer with incarcerated women – all in service to deep systems change that allows Vermonters, particularly women with less access to resources, to succeed and thrive.

 Why are you excited to join the VT Network Board? I am confident that my skillset will support and enhance your impressive scope of work on numerous fronts, including advocacy, policy work, training and education, and the future of justice-involved women currently being debated in the Vermont Legislature.

When you envision a violence-free VT what is the first thing that comes to mind for you? Networks of mutual support where everyone’s needs are addressed with compassionate care.

One thing you would like people to know about you? At the age of 22, I interviewed Archbishop Desmond Tutu during his visit to the United States to encourage universities and companies to divest their assets from South Africa to crush the government regime of apartheid.My 30-minute interview with him changed my life!