Bradford Smith named executive director VLSI

Vermont Business MagazineThe Vermont Learning-Support Initiative (VLSI) Board of Directors announced todaythat Bradford Smith has been named VLSI’s first Executive Director. “Brad brings exceptional skills and a deep commitment to fulfill VLSI’s mission of helping students who learn differently get to and through college,” said Dorothy Schnure, Chair of the VLSI Board. “The Board is impressed with Brad’s ability to connect with members of our communities who understand the need for greater educational equity for these learners, and with his vision to expand VLSI’s outreach to Vermont students and their families.”

Vermont Learning-Support Initiative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2016, offers individualized, strength-driven, fully collaborative support to teens with learning and attention challenges who aspire to a college degree. Students who learn differently are believed to comprise at least 20 percent of the population, and often face significant obstacles if they dream of a future that includes college. VLSI partners with families, schools, and other community stakeholders to help them achieve that goal.

“As a parent of a child with significant learning issues, I have seen firsthand in my family, in Vermont and elsewhere what it means to learn differently and how much that affects those who struggle and those around them,” said Smith. “I am humbled that the Board has granted me this opportunity to guide VLSI as it ramps up its efforts to support learners who, in spite of their challenges, dare to dream big.”

Smith, who lives in Johnson, Vermont, taught writing and film for many years at Johnson State College as an adjunct professor, until his learning odyssey with his child began. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Bucknell University, a master’s degree from New York University, and a certificate in nonprofit management from Marlboro College.

In addition to Schnure, senior energy consultant with Green Mountain Power, and Smith, members of the VLSI Board include Chad Butt, Executive Director of Mobius, Vermont’s mentoring organization, and Mary Cotton, speech and language pathologist at Champlain Valley Union High School.

Located in Hardwick, Vermont, VLSI offers services throughout the state, presently concentrating its focus in the Northeast Kingdom. Those interested in learning about its mission and programs are invited to visithttp://www.vermontlearningsupport.org/or contact VLSI at802.310.5374.