Name: Patrick Connolly

College: Middlebury College

Field of Study: Major: International Politics and Economics, Minor: Mathematics

Anticipated Graduation: February 2026

Hometown: Chevy Chase, MD

“After working in Governor Phil Scott’s Workforce Development Board last summer, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce presents an opportunity to foster my growing love for Vermont and its businesses. Because this is a joint internship with The Vermont Futures Project, I am working across many subdivisions of the Chamber. This dynamic and multi-faceted position allows me to work in the intersection of public policy and the private sector, offering me hands-on experiences with advocacy, economic development, and data-informed decision-making for Vermont.

This learning experience will foster my passions for political sciences, economics, and a love for numbers. At Middlebury, the skills I am developing at the Chamber will be critical as I continue to explore educational pathways of interest.

The Chamber’s team is thoughtful, engaging, dynamic, and just a joy to work with. I could not be more grateful for this opportunity to expand my love for policy, data analytics, economic development, and, most importantly, Vermont.”

Contact Information:  

Email – pjconnolly@middlebury.edu

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patrick-connolly-0b593a239/

Name: Maeve Nolan

College: Middlebury College

Field of Study: Economics, Environmental Studies, and French

Graduating: May 2025

Hometown: Williston, VT

“I am so excited to be working with both the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Vermont Futures Project this summer. As a native Vermonter, I have appreciated being able to learn more about the thoughtful considerations taken for business throughout the state, as well as looking into the future of Vermont’s economy. This opportunity has allowed me to combine my passion for Vermont’s people and places with my academic interests in economic development and business. 

Along with being an Economics major, I have a minor in Environmental Studies which has informed my passion for sustainable development, especially in the small business and public sectors. Through my previous work in development at 1% for the Planet, a global environmental nonprofit based in Burlington, I became really interested in combining academic-style research with a clear mission that drives an organization. I am especially grateful to now be working with another organization that aids in maintaining the welfare of Vermonters and their businesses. 

I have many ideas of what I would like to do after college, but I hope that whatever I end up doing will have a direct positive impact on as many people as possible. Though I still have a bit of time before graduation, I am always open to making connections, particularly when I’m talking about Vermont and what makes this place and its population so special. My contact information is listed below if anyone would like to follow up or ask about my experiences here at the Chamber or beyond. Thank you for contributing to Vermont’s business community and growing economy and enjoy the rest of your summer!”

Contact Information:

Email: mknolan@middlebury.edu

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/maeve-nolan/