Local governments are the lifeblood of Vermont’s communities, handling everything from budgets to leadership and providing vital services to citizens. But managing a town or city in today’s world brings new challenges, from climate adaptation to housing shortages, all of which require specialized knowledge and practical skills. Enter the Vermont Local Government Institute (VLGI).
This innovative eight-course certificate program, developed by the University of Vermont (UVM) in collaboration with the Vermont League of Cities and Towns (VLCT) and the Vermont Town and City Management Association (VTCMA), is designed to give town managers, administrators, and senior staff the tools they need to succeed.
Supported by the UVM’s Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships, this innovative initiative empowers town managers and administrators to address challenges head-on while fostering collaboration and community.
About the Vermont Local Government Institute
The Vermont Local Government Institute offers a practical, hands-on approach tailored specifically for municipal leaders serving rural communities across the state. The hybrid program blends in-person workshops, online learning, and self-directed activities to fit the needs of working professionals.
What makes the program unique?
- Expert-Led Training: Courses are taught by seasoned municipal managers, staff, and academics with decades of experience in the field.
- Tailored to Vermont: The curriculum focuses on the distinct needs and challenges of Vermont’s local governments.
- Comprehensive Topics: Participants gain expertise in leadership, budgeting, grant management, human resources, inclusivity, and more.
- Cost-Free Education: Thanks to funding from the Leahy Institute, the program is free for qualified participants, including travel assistance if needed.
By creating a network of leaders equipped with the latest best practices, the VLGI not only strengthens individual municipalities but also contributes to the overall resilience of Vermont’s towns and cities.
Celebrating the First Cohort of Graduates
This past fall, the Vermont Local Government Institute kicked off its inaugural semester with its first cohort of 18 participants, and the program concluded in late March with a graduation ceremony. Representing over 14 different towns across the state, these trailblazers collaborated, connected, and gained actionable insights to improve governance in their localities.
Participants took courses in topics such as effective leadership, grant management, and human resources. They reported an overwhelmingly positive experience, driven by a combination of professional development, real-world scenarios, and meaningful networking opportunities.
Learnings from the First Cohort
Here’s what some of the graduates had to say about the program:
- “The interaction with instructors and classmates was incredibly valuable. These discussions gave me a new perspective on the diverse challenges of Vermont’s towns.”
- “Making connections with other municipal leaders was the most valuable part of the course. It reinforced the importance of peer support.”
- “The Emotional Intelligence sessions stood out. It was helpful to discuss how to approach challenging situations with other professionals who truly understand the complexities of municipal government.”
With meaningful takeaways and strengthened networks, the first cohort demonstrated that such a program has a lasting impact on local municipal leadership.
Participating Organizations in the 2025 Cohort:
Creating a Community of Expertise
One of the greatest strengths of the Vermont Local Government Institute is the deep sense of community it fosters amongst its participants. Many town managers work in isolated conditions, far from peers who share similar experiences or challenges.
Maureen Hebert, Director of Strategic Initiatives at UVM PACE, highlights the importance of this built-in network:
“By connecting, sharing, and learning together, professionals gain not only knowledge but a support system that lasts well beyond the program,” she explains.
Bill Fraser, Montpelier’s City Manager of 30 years, also emphasizes this benefit as a co-instructor in the program:
“I want newcomers to feel like there are no dumb questions,” he says. “The experience of being in the room with fellow municipal professionals creates a collaborative environment they can rely on for years to come.”
From breakout activities to post-class discussions, VLGI participants engage in structured conversations that help them bridge divides between voter expectations, legal requirements, and the realities of running local government. These discussions not only strengthen their craft but also ensure that Vermont’s communities benefit from well-rounded, informed leaders.
Learn More and Apply!
Are you ready to take the next step in your municipal career? Whether you’re an aspiring town administrator, manager new to Vermont, or mid-career leader seeking specific skills, the Vermont Local Government Institute is your gateway to building a better future for your community.
Here’s what the program offers you:
- Practical insights from experienced local government professionals
- A comprehensive understanding of municipal laws and processes
- Leadership tools to manage both budgets and people effectively
- A lasting network of Vermont municipal leaders sharing ideas and solutions
Applications for the next cohort will open soon. Remember, there’s no cost to qualified applicants thanks to the generous funding provided by the UVM Leahy Institute for Rural Partnerships.
Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your skills, build your network, and make a greater impact in your community.
Registration is opening in May, 2025.
Fall 2025 cohort begins in August, 2025.
