Rachel Carter Vermont Public Relations

On behalf of Rising Stars in Vermont, whether recognized by the recent Vermont Business Magazine award or not, I would like to say thank you.   I feel privileged to be included as one of the 40 Rising Stars under 40.  Too often we hear about efforts to keep young people from leaving our state to pursue meaningful careers, but not enough about support systems to help those of us who choose to grow our careers right here in Vermont.  I know many of these talented movers and shakers make it happen here due to our gumption, hard work and endurance.  In addition, we feel gratitude for the support we got along the way, right here in Vermont.  

I spoke with several “Rising Stars” during the award ceremony at the Comfort Suites Sunset Ballroom last night and we discussed our gratitude.  We all felt that our success is due in part to a variety of opportunities which strengthen our character and professional development in Vermont.

“My Vermont-based education afforded me the opportunity to thrive as an individual and as a communications professional in our state’s ski industry.  Saint Johnsbury Academy and Saint Michael’s College educate the whole-person as well as the notion that to be engaged in community kindness is a way of life.  Thank you Vermont educators!”  
Jen Butson, Director of Public Affairs, Ski Vermont

“I credit much of my personal and professional success to the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization.  I grew more in the year I spent traveling the state as Miss Vermont 2000 than I have in any other job and during any other time in my life.  As Miss Vermont, I was constantly exposed to new and challenging situations and forced to step outside my comfort zone.   I am most grateful to this organization for providing the young women of Vermont with a venue to earn scholarships for higher education while growing into successful leaders, participating in relevant community service, developing unique talents, and enhancing personal confidence, grace, and style.  You can find former Miss Vermont’s in every corner of the state, committed to making Vermont a better state in which to live and work”  
Hannah Nelson Manley, Director of Alumni Relations & Development, Lyndon State College

“I had the privilege of serving the City of Burlington through their Americorps*Vista program in 2005 with a focus on economic development issues.  Through the opportunity that CEDO (Community and Economic Development Office) provided I was able to gain community and non-profit connections that are invaluable to my business today.”
Amy Kirschner, Founder, Vermont Sustainable Exchange

As for me?  Starting a business at the age of 30 was scary and required bravery and strength at an age when you are starting to realize you are not invincible.  Health coverage was my number one fear and when I learned about, applied for, and was accepted into the Green Mountain Care family of health plans, the peace of mind that fell over my well-being allowed me to focus on building my business, instead of worrying about what would happen if I got sick.

There are a lot of services and institutions available for Vermonters that are not always in the upswing of public sentiment.  Without assistance, young people in this day and age do not typically have the means and security that came in years past.  Support for building a career and reaching maximum potential should not end after formal education, but should be available so future Rising Stars under age 40 can continue to grow and make an impact on Vermont because in terms of right now – we are the future.

Rachel Carter owns Rachel Carter PR, a public relations, social media, and grassroots marketing firm located in Charlotte, Vermont and at www.RachelCarterPR.com.  Rachel, along with all women quoted in this article are recipients of the 2010 Vermont Business Magazine Rising Star Award.