The Vermont Community Foundation proudly supports the Vermont Women’s Fund—a statewide initiative that focuses on advancing gender equity through strategic philanthropy and community leadership.
Recently, Lawson’s Finest hosted a special event to commemorate International Women’s Day, highlighting the vital roles women play in business, philanthropy, and community engagement. This gathering witnessed a blend of inspiration and connection.
Event Highlights
Guided by CEO Adeline Druart, the event featured a keynote address by Emily Bush, Director of the Vermont Women’s Fund, alongside a panel discussion featuring notable Vermont women business leaders:
- Karen Colberg (King Arthur Baking)
- Sas Stewart (Adventure Dinner)
- Libby Parent (Vermont’s Original Bag Balm)
- Sascha Mayer (Mamava)
In her opening remarks, Adeline expressed the event’s mission: “You’re here because you want to be hopeful, you want to be inspired, you want to connect, you want to learn, you want to engage. And that’s what we hope we’re going to deliver here today.”
The Mission of the Vermont Women’s Fund
Emily Bush’s keynote captured the essence of the Vermont Women’s Fund: “We all have a part to play in making sure that women’s voices, ideas, and leadership are at the forefront of this movement. Let’s keep supporting and celebrating women, because when they succeed, we all do.”
Insights from Panelists
The panelists provided insights rooted in their personal journeys and professional experiences. Sas Stewart emphasized a balance of self-belief and external validation, stating, “It’s like 50% believing in yourself and 50% having it reflected back at you.” In a similar vein, Libby Parent shared her perspective on authenticity: “I can only be my authentic self. And I think sometimes growing up in your career, you may get advice to be different than you are. I was never very good at that.”
Offering a reflective perspective on work ethic, Karen Colberg shared her inspiration from family: “What I believe really deeply is that there are parts of us that are just deep in our DNA, and they’re who we are… For me, I have this incredible work ethic. It’s from my grandmother—she was an entrepreneur…”
Sascha Mayer concluded the discussion with a reminder of the nuances of leadership: “There’s a million decisions. There’s a million moments. It’s saying yes, and it’s taking on challenges. It’s sharing the idea. It’s being brave every single day with a million different decisions.”
Social Impact and Community Connection
The event also highlighted Lawson’s Finest’s Social Impact Program, which collaborates with Vermont nonprofits, including the Vermont Women’s Fund. “The Social Impact Program is a huge part of what it means to be part of Lawson’s Finest. Every year, we brew about 10 or 12 different beers in collaboration with amazing nonprofit organizations across Vermont,” said Carra Cheslin, SIP Manager, emphasizing their commitment to ongoing partnerships.
As the event transitioned into networking, attendees exchanged reflections and connections. Stacie Fagan, Vice President of Philanthropy at the Vermont Community Foundation, noted, “It’s really important to come together, to be in community as we try to create the future we want to see. That power of connection, shared experience, and mentorship—even in a group setting—was really palpable today.”
The Transformative Power of Leadership
This gathering served as a reminder of how leadership grounded in empathy, authenticity, and collaboration can significantly impact communities. Participants left the event feeling invigorated, connected to a community of women intent on supporting one another.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to Lawson’s Finest for their ongoing commitment to Vermont. Emily summarized the ethos of the company by stating, “Sean and Karen Lawson have pulled on every lever of their business to drive social impact—brand, product, culture, core values, and philanthropy.”
The event closed on a high note, illustrating the potential of collective efforts in fostering leadership and purpose-driven progress within communities.
Inspired by this initiative? Take our Giving Quiz to explore charitable options aligned with your philanthropic goals and make a lasting impact. For further assistance, call us at 802-388-3355 (opt. 5) or email philanthropy@vermontcf.org to help connect and create opportunities throughout Vermont.
Founded in 1986, the Vermont Community Foundation serves as a vital source of philanthropic support for communities across Vermont. With over 1,000 funds and foundations, it facilitates opportunities for those who care about Vermont to support their causes effectively. The Foundation collaborates to direct more than $70 million annually to various initiatives, working to bridge opportunity gaps that prevent many Vermonters from advancing. Their vision includes fostering a better Vermont where everyone can aspire to a brighter, more secure future.
