Staff
Samantha Surks
Nonprofit Engagement Coordinator – AmeriCorps VISTA, Common Good Vermont
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I am a recent graduate of Middlebury College and excited to be starting my first post graduate role as an AmeriCorps VISTA member serving at Common Good Vermont! Although my undergraduate degree is in Biology and Earth & Climate Science, I help build capacity at Common Good as the Nonprofit Engagement Coordinator. I am interested in sustainable, community-based solutions to complex issues, which I hope to contribute to through Vermont’s nonprofit sector with CGVT.
I’m very grateful to be back in Vermont — I enjoy hikes in the Green Mountains, swimming in Vermont’s various rivers, exploring Burlington’s food scene and skiing in the winters.
Elise Genereux
Programs and Events Coordinator, Common Good Vermont
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As Programs and Events Coordinator, I support Common Good Vermont’s network of nonprofit professionals by helping design and deliver statewide convenings, webinars, certificate programs, and our annual summit. I’m energized by building meaningful connections and creating learning experiences that strengthen the state’s nonprofit sector.
My commitment to this work grew through several years volunteering with United Way’s Partner Funding Team, which deepened my dedication to efforts that support strong, equitable communities. I bring a background in project and event management, psychology, and human‑centered design. Originally from Massachusetts, I now live in Essex Junction with my husband and enjoy baking, sewing, reading, and gardening.
Andy Cao
Membership Coordinator, Common Good Vermont
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I joined the Common Good Vermont team as an AmeriCorps VISTA member in 2025, and I am now continuing my role as Membership Coordinator full-time. I am a recent graduate of Middlebury College, where I studied environmental policy and sociology. My senior thesis explored funding and grantmaking in the nonprofit sector.
I currently live in Burlington, and I enjoy snowshoeing, cooking, and reality tv.
Lisa Grefe
Co-Director, Common Good Vermont
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I joined Common Good Vermont (and United Way NWVT) after volunteering with them for many years. In my role, I get to support the nonprofit sector through professional growth by offering relevant opportunities to connect and learn. In addition to this work, I focus on CGVT’s data projects, our fundraising and development work, and am the partner for our nonprofit consultant network. I bring a background in psychology, coaching, and people analytics to my work and I am energized by strengthening the nonprofit sector and the professionals who power it.
My husband and I live with our son and two miniature dachshunds in Burlington, VT where we like to go on lots of hikes and walks, preferably to bakeries and ice cream shops.
Emma Paradis
Co-Director, Common Good Vermont
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I came to Common Good Vermont (a program of UWNWVT serving Vermont nonprofits) after graduating from UVM’s Master of Public Administration program. In my role, I support Vermont’s nonprofit sector by advocating for its interests, fostering connections, and facilitating the exchange of information. With a background in food systems, community organizing and nonprofits, I am lucky to work for an organization whose mission and values align so closely with my own.
I live in Roxbury, VT with my husband, and in my spare time, I enjoy gardening, crosswords, cooking and getting outside.