Vermont Adult Learning has welcomed Tara Brooks as our new Executive Director! Tara, a lifelong Vermonter from Addison County, is dedicated to being a compassionate leader who focuses on building community and creating a positive and productive work environment that inspires people to be their best selves. Tara believes in leading with kindness, humor, and humility and creating a space where everyone feels safe to share their thoughts and ideas. Check out Tara’s staff profile below and head over to our Leadership Page to read her formal bio!
Where were you born? Middlebury, Vermont
What is your educational background? I went to Mt. Abraham Union High School in Bristol, Vermont, did my undergraduate studies in Child Development at Charter Oak and received my Masters in Educational Leadership at Southern New Hampshire University.
Interesting past job? Executive Director of the Vergennes Partnership and Events Manager for the Vergennes Opera House.
What is a unique hobby or interest you have? I love to refinish furniture. I have done several dressers and am working on a dining room table. I find inexpensive furniture, free or cheap, on Facebook marketplace or at resale shops. I have a small space in my 1880s carriage barn where I do all my work. The finished work often ends in my house, but I occasionally give pieces to friends and family as gifts.
Last book you read? The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson. I am currently reading Effective Leadership for Nonprofit Organizations and The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama.
How do you enjoy spending your free time? I enjoy spending time with my family. I have three daughters: Adelaide, 22, Olivia, 20, and Ellie, 14. My youngest daughter is a competitive swimmer, and my oldest is one of her coaches. I also enjoy tending to my flower gardens, cooking, and refinishing furniture.
Finish this sentence – I look forward to working with VAL because…VAL has a long history of providing services that better the lives of Vermonters. It was important to me to work for an organization dedicated to being inclusive and equitable and with a mission focused on helping people regardless of who they are or where they come from. I look forward to supporting VAL’s mission, people, and financial success. I aim to build on the great work already being done and support VAL and its board of directors as we work together to build a successful and secure future.