Vermont Futures Project Hires New Executive Director

The Vermont Futures Project is pleased to announce that Kevin Chu has been hired as the organization’s new Executive Director. Kevin will lead the Vermont Futures Project and advance its mission of positioning the economy in the center of a statewide discussion about Vermont’s future.

The Vermont Futures Project has passed the five-year mark and since its inception has achieved an impressive array of accomplishments through data analysis, research projects, policy direction, and educational outreach. To meet its growing impact and our changing economy, the moment is now to expand the leadership team to take the Vermont Futures Project forward.

Kevin Chu comes to the Vermont Futures Project from his position as the Managing Director of the University of Vermont’s (UVM) Office of Engagement. In that role, he developed relationships with businesses and expanded UVM’s role in workforce and economic development, with an eye for leveraging data to inform this work. Kevin Chu is a lifelong Vermonter and graduate of Middlebury College who loves to explore every part of our great state on his bike.

Lori Smith, the organization’s current Executive Director, will transition to become the Director of Outreach and will target her focus and passion to The Vermont Economy Talks knowledge campaign, donor relations, and partnerships. Together, the team will focus on economic recommendations and elevating the organization’s data to secure a resilient, equitable, and sustainable economic future for Vermont.

Kevin Chu said, “I look forward to leading the Vermont Futures Project and securing a sustainable and thriving future for Vermont. It’s critical that we work collectively to improve our state’s economy and focus on creating opportunities now and into the future for Vermonters in every part of our state. I know that we can accomplish this in a uniquely Vermont way by pursuing economic growth with
integrity that strengthens our communities.”

Lori Smith said, “I am excited to welcome Kevin Chu as our new Executive Director. Kevin brings expertise and a unique vision that I know will help build a vibrant future for the next generation of Vermonters. It has been an honor serving as the Vermont Futures Project’s Executive Director for the last several years, and I am excited to work with Kevin to drive the organization forward.”