Now in its fourth year, these events were developed to bring together alumni with similar experiences as students at northern New England independent schools, while also providing valuable networking opportunities. With seven other schools participating, our alumni could meet or reconnect with peers from Vermont Academy while also benefiting from amplified networking potential with the additional alumni from Brewster Academy, Cardigan Mountain School, Holderness School, Kimball Union Academy, New Hampton School, Proctor Academy, and The Putney School.

Special thanks to discussion table leaders Joe Dodi ’84 (Boston) and N’Dia (Parker-McWhorter) Riegler ’02 (NYC) for volunteering their time and expertise to guide breakout discussions in their respective industries–finance and education.

These gatherings continue to inspire, connect, and build community and we are already looking forward to next year! Here are a few reflections from this year’s attendees: 

“Connecting with the young alumni was a highlight of the event for me. I also made a noteworthy connection with Stuart Eisenkraft (former student and Board member), whose VA knowledge was impressive. We met for lunch at his New York office in late April.” —Joe Dodi ’84

“I received much from VA as a student and paying it forward by listening to and sharing experiences with young bright faces from VA is exceedingly rewarding. Meeting Joe Dodi was a plus to the evening.” —Stuart Eisenkraft ’74

“Attending these events as a young alum in the workforce is incredibly valuable. It’s not just about what you know—it’s also about who you know, and those connections can really propel future opportunities. Being there in person was a great reminder of how meaningful face-to-face interactions can be.” —Patrick Ogden ’19

Check out photos from the NYC and Boston events on Flickr!