As many of you know, I will be leaving the CTA next month to pursue new adventures. I began at the CTA in August of 2008 as its first full time Trail Director, and since January of 2013, I have served in the Executive Director role. I have truly enjoyed working with the landowners, members, volunteers, partners, and friends that make the Catamount Trail possible. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to collaborate with the board and our small but mighty staff to strengthen operations, create new programs and events, and encourage the CTA’s evolution. I am going to miss my daily interactions with the CTA family, and I am also enthusiastic to see the CTA write its next chapter under new leadership.
After a thorough search process, the board reached the unanimous conclusion that Matt Williams is the person for the job. We were looking for a leader who could both build upon the CTA’s rich–nearly 35-year–history and offer a fresh and compelling vision for the future. Climate change, Vermont’s ever-evolving trail networks, and its burgeoning recreational economy all present new challenges and opportunities. Matt is energetic, he is thoughtful, and he brings a strategic mindset to these issues. He is passionate about the well being of Vermont and Vermonters, and is an avid outdoors person. I am excited to work with Matt through the transition and am confident he will lead the CTA with care and skill. Please take a moment to read the press release.
For those of you who are curious about what is next for me, I am moving on to a new role with the Center for Rural Studies at the University of Vermont. I will be working on a wide range of research and consulting projects within UVM’s Department of Community Development and Applied Economics. I’m excited about the opportunities the university atmosphere will present, and look forward to continuing my career in work that focuses on the vitality of Vermont communities and its people.
Thank you for the kindness and support you have shared with the CTA, and with me.
I’ll see you on the trail!
Amy Kelsey
Here at the CTA we are really going to miss Amy. She had an incredibly positive attitude and approached our work here with thought and consideration, never rushing, and always aiming to ensure every perspective had been considered. Because of her the CTA is where it is today. She is leaving some pretty big shoes to fill, and the office just won’t be the same without her!
That said… We are super excited to have Matt Williams joining our team. We believe he is going to be a great asset to the CTA and a great advocate for all backcountry skiers here in Vermont. Matt will be starting his new role in just a couple of weeks, so expect to start seeing and hearing more from him very soon.
Happy Spring!
