Dani Kehlmann
38 | Development Director, Vermont Huts Association
Residence: Washington
Career highlight you are most proud of.
Allowing my curiosity and dedication to others to drive my career path. I have been a fundraiser, a public school teacher and a coach. I ran a local food shelf, mentored students and went on tour with the circus! 
I am so proud of our work at Vermont Huts Association, and I know I wouldn’t have landed here without the wealth of experienced gained from former employers and colleagues. I still don’t know what I want to be when I “grow up,“ but I’m so glad to do a job I love.
Community involvement.
These include serving as vice chair for the Waterbury Select Board, coaching cross-country, directing middle school musicals, reading with elementary students, coaching for Girls on the Run and volunteering at trail races and outdoor events. My community keeps me going, and it’s with great pride and pleasure that I continue to seek out ways to help Waterbury — and Vermont — be the healthiest and happiest it can be.
Motivation for living and working in Vermont.
After coming to visit “for the summer“ in 2011, I worked for Circus Smirkus as a counselor on tour and fell in love with Vermont’s beauty and incomparable community closeness. I have never felt at home in the way I feel at home in the Green Mountain State, and I knew instantly that this is where I wanted to dedicate my skills, passion and time.
Favorite part of your job.
The people I work with, the folks we work for and the potential for impact we have throughout Vermont. I believe deeply in our mission to create enriching outdoor opportunities for everybody.
Most inspiring mentors.
Janet Erlick, of Florida Children’s Theatre, who taught me to use my voice, dream big and follow my heart; Ed LeClair, of Circus Smirkus, who helped me see that I am more capable than I ever knew and to rely on the team around me; and all my family and friends, for their undeniable impact and unwavering support.
Best career advice you have received.
To remember that I’m a person first and an employee second. No matter how hard a person works, if their humanness is neglected it will eventually catch up.
Something fun about yourself that few people know.
I broke my toe in my own bedroom, tripping over a shoe. Well, now they know.
Three words that best describe you.
Authentic, adventurous and sparkly.
Favorite Vermont escape.
Waterbury Reservoir. While every trail and body of water in Vermont is magical, nothing beats a peaceful day on the Rez. I am so lucky to call Waterbury my home.
Favorite Vermont season.
Summer — the lush green woods, soft dirt trails, sparkling streams and long days with friends.
Favorite downtime activity.
Doing crossword puzzles. Sunday morning coffee and crosswords in Waterbury, if anyone wants to join!
Favorite social media.
Strava — I love to see what adventures my friends are up to and find new places to explore.
Favorite smell.
A lilac in bloom. Not only is it a beautiful smell, but it is also so fleeting. It’s very special to have lilacs in bloom in Vermont in early summer, bringing joy and the promise of warm days to come.
Person you would most like to share a Vermont beverage with.
My 13-year-old niece. We’re due for an apple cider date really soon.
Causes you would support if you had unlimited access to funds.
Arts education and physical education in schools. We are deeply missing a chance to raise whole, well-rounded children when we cut funding to these critical subjects. Empathy, healthy habits and a connection to each other and our natural world will ensure a brighter future.
Song on your playlist you are embarrassed to disclose to your best friend.
Musicals, Taylor Swift and West Coast ’90s hip-hop — let’s jam!
Where you see yourself professionally in the next five to 10 years.
I’d like to be able to say I helped Vermont Huts Association accomplish its early goals and grow into a stable statewide organization. I envision VHA providing dozens of jobs and enhancing recreation opportunities throughout Vermont.
Career goal you would like to accomplish in the next five to 10 years.
Successfully funding our organization and growing our development team to multiple members. I dream of employing and mentoring others to cultivate a strong team integrating work and play.
