
Meet The Team
Our Governance System
To ensure a fair and equitable governance system at Vermont First we set up our structure to have checks and balances from both internal and external stakeholders. See below for a diagram of how our governance structure flow works and the subcommittees that function off of our Advisory Board and Executive Committee.
Vermont First Facilitator

Sydney Howard
Sydney combines practical agricultural experience with business expertise to support Vermont’s vibrant food movement. With a degree in Animal Science from the University of New Hampshire and a Sustainable Innovation MBA from the University of Vermont, Sydney is dedicated to connecting farmers, suppliers, and communities to more locally sourced food.
Growing up in Western Massachusetts with strong family ties to Vermont, she is passionate about advancing sustainability and equity in the state’s long agricultural history. Outside of work, Sydney enjoys exploring the outdoors, cooking, horseback riding, and spending time with friends and loved ones.
Vermont First Facilitator

Sydney Howard
Sydney combines practical agricultural experience with business expertise to support Vermont’s vibrant food movement. With a degree in Animal Science from the University of New Hampshire and a Sustainable Innovation MBA from the University of Vermont, Sydney is dedicated to connecting farmers, suppliers, and communities to more locally sourced food.
Growing up in Western Massachusetts with strong family ties to Vermont, she is passionate about advancing sustainability and equity in the state’s long agricultural history. Outside of work, Sydney enjoys exploring the outdoors, cooking, horseback riding, and spending time with friends and loved ones.
Vermont First Advisory Board is made up of members within the Vermont food system to provide input and guide the direction of Vermont First. Our members are:
Vermont First Advisory Board
The Vermont First Executive Committee is made up of Sodexo regional and national leadership to steer the direction of Vermont First within Sodexo. Our members are:
Vermont First Executive Committee