Grossman School of Business

SI-MBA Learning & Connection Summit

Join alumni and current students on June 12–13, 2026.

You're Invited!

Register Today

First Annual SI-MBA Learning & Connection Summit

We are thrilled to invite you back to Burlington and the University of Vermont campus for a special celebration of the first decade of the Sustainable Innovation MBA program, its 12th graduating cohort, and the retirement of Dean Sanjay Sharma 

Register today to join us on June 12–13, 2026 for an inspiring and engaging opportunity where alumni, faculty, and business leaders will come together to learn, connect, and shape the future of sustainable business. 

This inaugural summit will feature: 

  • Learning: Explore the evolving landscape of sustainable business with insights from leading faculty, industry experts, and fellow SI-MBA graduates. Hear from Keynote Speaker: Kyle Clark, President & CEO of Beta Technologies, who will share insights on their journey to revolutionize emissions-free aviation. Sharpen your skills in areas such as AI & Sustainability, and others. 

  • Networking: Reconnect with your cohort and meet alumni from across the program’s history. Build new relationships and discover opportunities to collaborate on shared challenges and goals. 

We can’t wait to welcome you back and celebrate this milestone together! 

Kyle Clark flying a BETA plane Kyle Clark standing in front of a BETA technologies plane Kyle Clark

Keynote Speaker: Kyle Clark, President & CEO, BETA Technologies

Kyle Clark leads all technical and strategic components of the business including design, test and certification strategy, and commercialization of the ALIA aircraft platform. He has served as CEO since inception in June 2018, and remains one of the test pilots of all BETA’s experimental aircraft.

Event Details

Schedule

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Get ready for two days of learning, networking, and celebration! Register Today.

Day 1 (June 12) from 5:00 – 6:30 PM 

  • Welcome & Opening Remarks 

  • Networking Reception 

Day 2 (June 13) from 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM 

  • Keynote Address 

  • Alumni Panels & Discussions 

  • Skills-Building Workshops  

  • Roundtable Conversations 

  • Closing Celebration 

A detailed schedule with times and locations will be shared closer to the event. 

Keynote / Speakers

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We’re bringing together thought leaders, faculty, and alumni who are shaping the future of sustainable business.  

Here’s some of what you’ll experience: 

  • Keynote Speaker: Kyle Clark, President & CEO of Beta Technologies, will share insights on their journey to revolutionize emissions-free aviation.
  • AI & Sustainability Workshop: Led by Rochelle March, who introduced AI into the SI-MBA curriculum.
  • Career Resources: LinkedIn and resume reviews and more.
  • Social Events: Alumni-led gatherings Friday & Saturday evenings, plus a potential Sunday brunch.

 

Accommodations

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Hotel Recommendations

DoubleTree by Hilton Burlington 

Rates: 
6/11: $154 UVM rate 
6/12 & 13: $199 

To secure rooms contact Nick Fisher at Nick.Fisher2@Hilton.com or 802-865-6693. 

Courtyard Burlington Harbor 

Rates: 
6/11: $209 UVM rate 
6/12 & 13: $439 

To secure rooms call the Marriott at 802-864-4700 and ask for the front desk. 

Note: All the above rates do not include applicable taxes and are based upon availability. 

 

Transportation & Parking 

  • Burlington International Airport (BTV) is just 10 minutes from campus. 

  • Parking will be available at Votey Hall (55 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT 05405 – first come, first serve, and at UVM visitor lots. 

  • Local transportation options include rideshare, taxis, and Green Mountain Transit buses.

FAQs

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  • Dress Code 
    Business casual is recommended for all sessions and networking events. 

  • Dietary Needs 
    We aim to provide inclusive meal options. Please indicate any dietary restrictions during registration. 

Other questions? Check back here for updates or reach out to John Kim. 

Contact

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John Kim
john.kim@uvm.edu
802-636-7314 (m)
LinkedIn

Explore our Panels

Panel 1: Climate Tech & Clean Energy Innovation

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Panelists: 

  • Jared Alvord (2020) - Global Director, Renewable Energy & Sustainability Advisory at World Kinect 

  • JD Popp (2022) - Sales Strategy Manager at Greencrown Energy (commercial energy management) 

  • Elias Pereira (2024) – Energy Innovator, Green Mountain Power 

  • TBD

Panel 2: Sustainable Finance & the State of ESG

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Panelists: 

Panel 3: Career Pivots & Portfolio Careers

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Panelists: 

  • Ali Kenney (2014) - Former CSO at Burton, now Consultant/Adjunct Professor/Board Director 

  • Madeline Brumberg (2018) - Operations & Impact Lead, Sustainable Credit Partners 

  • Vanessa Chumbley (2022) – Manager of Strategy, fello. 

  • Emily Listowich (2025) – Senior Assistant Brand Manager, Seventh Generation 

Panel 4: Deep Tech, AI & The Future of Work
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Panelists: 

  • Tim Silman (2015) – Program Director at Lonely Whale + Startup Advisor 

  • Emily Vogt (2019) – Director of Venture Development, Venture Partners at CU Boulder 

  • Carly Joos (2022) – Head of Community, Suffolk Ventures 

  • Cody Plante (2022) – Capital Program Controls Manager, Dartmouth College 

Sponsors

Cabot Cooperative Creamery Logo

Cabot Cooperative Creamery

Coffee Break Sponsor
EastRise Credit Union Logo

EastRise Credit Union

Meal Sponsor
Rhino Foods Logo

Rhino Foods

Meal Sponsor