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Intervale Center Adds Three New Board Members

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/10 .. tervale-center-adds-three-new-board-members.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 8:45 GMT by The Burlington Free Press
      Locales: Vermont, UNITED STATES

BURLINGTON, VT - February 10th, 2026 - The Intervale Center, a pivotal organization in Burlington's food system and a longstanding advocate for community development, has significantly bolstered its leadership team with the appointment of three new Board members: Sarah Chen, David Miller, and Emily Rodriguez. The move, announced today, isn't merely an administrative update, but a strategic recalibration reflecting the evolving challenges and opportunities facing local food systems and community resilience in a rapidly changing world.

Executive Director Joel Feldman emphasized the importance of the appointments, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Sarah, David, and Emily to the Intervale Center's Board. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our programs and deepen our impact on the community." But beyond the welcome, these selections hint at specific areas of growth the Center intends to prioritize.

A Strategic Shift: Finance, Marketing, and Grassroots Advocacy

The Intervale Center has operated for decades as a critical infrastructure component for local agriculture, offering essential resources to farmers, food businesses, and community members alike. The Center's core offerings - the Intervale Community Farm, the Intervale Seed Library, and a robust schedule of workshops and events - are well-established. However, maintaining this level of service, and expanding it to meet rising demand, necessitates a proactive approach to financial stability and public awareness.

Sarah Chen's expertise in finance and strategic planning is particularly noteworthy. In recent years, non-profit organizations focused on sustainability have faced increased financial pressures, including volatile supply chains, rising operational costs, and shifting funding landscapes. Chen's experience will likely be instrumental in diversifying revenue streams, securing long-term financial commitments, and ensuring the Center's continued viability. This includes potentially exploring social impact investment opportunities and strengthening relationships with philanthropic organizations.

David Miller, the marketing consultant, addresses another critical need: expanding the Center's reach. While the Intervale Center enjoys strong support within Burlington, its impact could be significantly amplified through broader awareness. Effective marketing will be crucial for attracting new customers to the Community Farm's offerings, increasing participation in workshops, and garnering support for the Seed Library. Miller's focus will likely extend to digital marketing strategies, social media engagement, and building strategic partnerships with local media outlets.

Perhaps most importantly, the appointment of Emily Rodriguez, a seasoned community organizer, underscores the Intervale Center's commitment to social equity and inclusive growth. Food security is inextricably linked to social justice, and ensuring equitable access to healthy, affordable food is paramount. Rodriguez's expertise in grassroots engagement will be invaluable in identifying and addressing the needs of marginalized communities, fostering genuine community participation in the Center's programs, and building a more inclusive food system. She will likely champion initiatives focused on food access for low-income families, culturally relevant food programs, and workforce development opportunities within the local food sector.

Beyond the Farm: A Broader Vision for Food System Resilience

The Intervale Center's role extends far beyond simply providing land and resources for farmers. It serves as a vital incubator for food entrepreneurs, offering training, mentorship, and access to infrastructure. This support is particularly crucial in a time when the local food movement is gaining momentum, and more people are seeking alternatives to the industrial food system.

The Center's commitment to environmental stewardship is also increasingly important. Sustainable agriculture practices, such as composting, cover cropping, and reduced tillage, are essential for mitigating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and protecting soil health. The Intervale Seed Library plays a critical role in preserving heirloom varieties and promoting genetic diversity, ensuring the resilience of the local food supply.

Feldman's closing remarks, "We're excited about this new chapter and the fresh perspectives our new board members will bring," are more than just optimistic words. They signal a deliberate effort to adapt, innovate, and expand the Intervale Center's impact. The new Board members represent a strategic investment in the organization's future, positioning it to address the complex challenges and opportunities of a changing world and solidify its role as a cornerstone of Burlington's vibrant and sustainable community.