COURTNEY Widli
29 | Castleton University | Director of Development and Alumni Affairs
Residence: Brandon
Career highlight(s): The career highlight I'm most proud of is launching Scholarships for Spartans, a fundraising campaign to help make quality higher education affordable for all students. This campaign has not only helped to fund the education of countless Spartans as they work to graduate and fulfill their dreams, but has also created a unique opportunity for donors and supports to make a 
significant difference in the lives of current and future students.
Community Involvement: My community involvement includes serving as a member of the Lake Bomoseen Association 
Board of Directors and Castleton University Alumni Association Board of Directors. I have also spent time volunteering to support local organizations, such as the Rutland Community Cupboard, and am a member of the Rutland Young Professionals. I have always valued giving back to and supporting my local community and I look forward to continuing to grow in this area.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? I was motivated to live and work in Vermont because of the location and people. As a native Vermonter, I have always been inspired by the great outdoors and the passionate community members who call this great state home.
Favorite part of your job? My favorite part of my job is the people. Each and every day I get to meet, talk to, write about, and feature outstanding individuals who share a common sense of pride in Castleton and Vermont. The generosity of our donors, the drive of our alumni, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the determination of our students inspire me daily.
What is the best career advice you have received? The best career advice I have received was from a Castleton alumna who shared with me "Power is not in what you know, power is in what you share." Sharing knowledge, mentoring others, and supporting one another is key to a successful team and organization.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: Few people know that I am an avid book worm, and in addition to work and graduate school, I read on average 6 books a month!
What three words best describe you: Three words that best describe me are resourceful, persistent, and confident.
Favorite downtime activity: My favorite downtime activity is nature hikes with my husband, Seth, and our two gorgeous Bernese mountain dogs, Bella and Murphy. Regardless of the season, there is always something new and exciting to explore in the Vermont outdoors.
Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 5-10 years? In the next 5-10 years I'd like to see myself continue to advance in my field, with a focus on professional development, mentorship, and increasing my community involvement.