CHRISTY Gallese
39 | Burlington School District | Director of Expanded Learning Opportunities
Residence: Charlotte
Career highlight(s): I'm most proud of the relationships and collaborative programs I have built from my work in Denver, CO to Burlington, VT. A recent highlight has been the development of the Essential Worker Child Care program this spring. It was the perfect combination of teamwork, planning and program management, problem-solving and tireless work to step up and serve the community during a time of need.
Community Involvement: My commitment to community involvement grew from my term of service as an AmeriCorps VISTA. From that point forward I have continued to prioritize service in my community. Currently, I have the privilege of serving as the Chairperson for SerVermont, and serving on the National States for Service Leadership Council and as a States for Service Leader for the New England Region. I also serve on the Advisory Board for the Leadership Champlain program, and the Recreation Commission for the Town of Charlotte.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? I was motivated to live and work in Vermont by the expressed value of community, the natural beauty of the state and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Favorite part of your job? The favorite part of my job are the opportunities; the opportunities our team can create for students to explore, engage and learn new skills, the opportunity to work with and learn from an incredible group of people, and the opportunity to collaborate with our amazing community partners.
What is the best career advice you have received? The best career advice I have received is to approach each situation with curiosity and to focus on what is within my control.
Favorite Vermont escape: My favorite Vermont escape is the Charlotte Beach, the views, the water, and the sense of community are the best!
Favorite downtime activity: My favorite downtime activities are spending time with my family, reading, running and baking delicious treats with my girls.
What one song is on your playlist that are you embarrassed to tell your best friend: The song on my playlist I would be embarrassed to tell my best friend is "We Built This City," by Starship.
How has your job changed since this pandemic? During the pandemic, my job has changed to provide increased opportunities for innovation and problem solving with a focus on details large and small and with a sense of urgency. It has changed to provide increased collaboration across the community, and a reinforcement time and time again of the value of relationships, teamwork and a commitment to serve the community during times of need.