The Department of Community Development and Applied Economics is excited to welcome alumna and local entrepreneur Isora Lithgow as an instructor for the Spring 2027 semester. Lithgow will teach CDAE 2660, Introduction to Community Entrepreneurship, a course introducing students to the theory and practice of developing and operating a business.
A two-time UVM graduate, Lithgow earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Communication in 2016 and her Master of Education in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration in 2020. Since 2020, she has built and operated Isora Lithgow Creations LLC, a Vermont-based wedding photography business serving clients throughout New England, New York, and destination locations.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Isora back to UVM as both an alumna and an accomplished entrepreneur,” said Jason Konefal, chair of CDAE. “Her experience building a business from the ground up will give students valuable insight into the realities of entrepreneurship. Having alumni share their experiences in the classroom is a wonderful way to connect students’ academic learning with real-world opportunities.”
As founder and lead photographer, Lithgow manages all aspects of her business, including client acquisition, marketing, brand strategy, financial planning, pricing, contracts, vendor relationships, and daily operations. Her work combines creative storytelling with the business expertise needed to build and sustain a successful enterprise.
Her entrepreneurial accomplishments have earned recognition in the wedding photography industry. In 2023, Lithgow won the Seven Daysies Award for Best Wedding Photographer. Her work has also been featured by publications and organizations including British Vogue, The Knot, Boston Weddings, Wedding Chicks, and Stowe Magazine.
Lithgow’s business is particularly focused on creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for couples, with an emphasis on celebrating LGBTQ+ and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) love stories. Her approach demonstrates how entrepreneurs can build a distinctive brand while aligning their business practices with their values.
CDAE 2660 explores the theory and practice of developing and operating a business, with an emphasis on business development, operations, financing, marketing, and social responsibility. Through Lithgow’s professional experience, students will have the opportunity to connect these concepts with the practical challenges and decisions involved in running a business.
CDAE looks forward to welcoming Lithgow back to campus in Spring 2027 and providing students with the opportunity to learn from her entrepreneurial journey.