Lindsay DesLauriers is Champlain’s 2025 Distinguished Citizen

Champlain College awarded its 2025 Distinguished Citizen Award to Lindsay DesLauriers, president of Bolton Valley Resort. Marking 64 years of tradition, the Distinguished Citizen Award celebrates leaders whose achievements leave a meaningful mark on their communities. 

DesLauriers has dedicated her career to strengthening Vermont through business leadership, civic engagement, and a deep commitment to the state’s outdoor economy. As a member of the family that founded Bolton Valley, she returned to the resort in 2017 and has since led its revitalization, transforming it into a thriving four-season destination while honoring its strong community roots. 

“Lindsay embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and community leadership we seek to recognize with this award,” said Champlain College President Alex Hernandez. “She is a visionary business leader, a tireless advocate for Vermont, and an inspiring example for our students. Under her leadership, Bolton Valley has grown to become a gathering place that enriches our state’s culture, economy, and identity.”

In addition to her work at Bolton Valley, DesLauriers has been active in state policy and community initiatives, including serving as a former state director for the Main Street Alliance of Vermont, where she advocated on behalf of small businesses. She has also been a strong voice for working families, helping to shape the conversations around paid family leave and workplace equity. 

“Lindsay represents the very best in Vermont leadership,” said Neale Lunderville, president & CEO of Vermont Gas and former long-time Trustee of Champlain College. “Like her dad, there is no nonsense or artifice. She is smart, tenacious, and full of heart. She leads with purpose and genuine care for the people she serves. At Bolton Valley, Lindsay has shown how steady vision and hard work can bring a community together and keep it thriving. Vermont is better for her kind of leadership, and we’re grateful for her service to this state we love.”

At the event, DesLauriers reflected on the importance of community resilience and a workforce-ready mindset. “I admire Champlain College’s mission. [Champlain isn’t] just preparing students for jobs; [they’re] not just creating a bunch of idealists with stars in their eyes, ready to protest—[they’re] teaching the value of purpose and pragmatism together: preparing students to use their work as a way to both proudly and unapologetically further themselves in life while also contributing and making a positive impact within their community.”

This year’s award follows the 2024 recognition of Joyce Judy, president of Community College of Vermont.