Ashley Brunelle
36 | Events Manager, Junapr
Residence: Chittenden
Career highlight you are most proud of:
I’m so proud of all the peer recognition, client appreciation, and every internal promotion I’ve received throughout my career - they inspire me to reach higher and work harder. In addition to the confidence my colleagues have placed in me, external recognition, including this 
Rising Star Award and being part of the Leadership Champlain Class of 2020, has been incredibly rewarding. Additionally, building strong, trusted relationships within the Vermont community has been a cornerstone of my success and growth, both professionally and personally. I look forward to continuing to grow my career in this supportive community.
Community Involvement:
As a dedicated events manager, I have had the privilege of partnering with numerous organizations to support their fundraising, awareness, and cultural initiatives. Through my work, I have collaborated with impactful groups such as Special Olympics Vermont for the Penguin Plunge, Spectrum Youth Services for the Empty Bowl Dinner, and Community Health Centers for their Salud event. Additionally, I contributed to the Direct Support Professionals Recognition Event, helping shine a spotlight on essential community workers. My work has also extended to supporting local arts, including events such as the SEABA Art Hop, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, and the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival. These roles have allowed me to align my passion for event management with meaningful causes that positively impact Vermont communities.
Previously, I served as the Winooski Farmers Market Manager, overseeing market operations, vendor coordination, and community outreach initiatives. This role allowed me to foster local food access and support programs like EBT and Crop Cash. Recently, I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer with the Winooski Food Shelf and the Burlington Farmers Market, applying the skills I developed during my time managing the Winooski market.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont?
I originally moved to Vermont "for the summer" 12 years ago, but I quickly fell in love with the state and never left. The tight-knit community, stunning natural beauty, and the sense of purpose I found here drew me in. I grew to love the friendliness and generosity of its people, the state’s unique identity, its commitment to sustainability, and the incredible opportunities to work alongside organizations that make a difference.
Favorite part of your job:
I love that no two days are ever the same. I'm constantly given opportunities to grow, improve, and learn something new, which keeps me engaged and challenged. What makes it even better is working alongside such an amazing group of people who inspire and motivate me every day.
Most inspiring mentor and why:
I am fortunate to work with a group of wonderful women at Junapr (formerly known as the Bad A** Lady Gang) who continue to teach and inspire me every day. Their intelligence, wit, dedication, and depth of knowledge set a remarkable example. They demonstrate how to proactively support our clients and build lasting relationships within the community, all while emphasizing the importance of work/life balance.
What is the best career advice you have received?
My years in hospitality taught me valuable skills that are applicable to all areas of my life. I learned that anticipating potential issues is far more effective than simply reacting - addressing stressful situations before they escalate. It's also crucial to pause in those moments; taking a breath or going for a walk can provide clarity and solutions, or reveal that things aren't as daunting as they seem. Above all, my favorite career advice is to never stop learning—continuously develop your skills, trust your instincts, and embrace new opportunities each day.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know:
My dad and I share a birthday—30 years apart to the day. Since I was in the 2nd grade, we’ve celebrated by going out to lunch together almost every year.
What three words best describe you: Dedicated, hard-working and vibrant.
Favorite Vermont escape: I love hiking Mount Philo. It’s a short, steep hike with stunning views just down the road from my office, making it a perfect getaway year-round. Whether after a long day at work or during a quick lunch break, it’s a great way to get outside and connect with nature.
Favorite Vermont season:
While I love all the seasons, my favorite season in Vermont is probably the fall. I love the vibrant foliage, the crispness in the air, and all the fun outdoor activities. There’s truly nothing like it.
Favorite downtime activity:
I love finding time to bake cookies and treats to share with friends and colleagues. There's something so rewarding and stress-relieving about it. I also enjoy curling up with a good book and getting completely lost in it—it's my favorite way to unwind and recharge.
Favorite Social Media and why:
I love Instagram—being a very visual person, it's definitely a guilty pleasure. That said, I’ve recently rediscovered an appreciation for Pinterest, where I enjoy saving my favorite recipes, crafts and gifts, and seasonal ideas.
What is your favorite smell? I love the smell of fresh lilacs in the spring - it's just the best reminder that summer is on its way. I also love the smell of fresh basil - it's one of my favorite items to grab at the Burlington Farmers Market in the summer.
Person you would most like to share a Vermont beverage with: Definitely my sister—she was one of the main reasons I first started visiting Vermont when she was attending St. Mike’s. Now, whenever she visits, a stop at a local brewery is always a must.
What one song is on your playlist that are you embarrassed to tell your best friend:
While I prefer not to feel too 'embarrassed' about my strange and varied musical tastes, I will say that “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon is a song that always brings a smile to my face and gets everyone on the dance floor.
Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I see myself continuing my work in event planning, as it’s a passion I truly love. It wasn’t until I stepped outside of the field to explore other opportunities that I realized how much I missed it. I would love to continue this work at Junapr, a wonderful Vermont-based company filled with amazing people. I feel fortunate to work alongside such kind and talented individuals every day.
