Meet the Advisory Board Member: Gabriella S.

BYP is run with support from a motivated team of young professionals, the Advisory Board! Learn more about the people that guide and influence the program and say hi when you see them at our next event.

Introducing Gabriella S.

Share a brief overview of your professional background.

I got my start in sustainable materials management after earning a degree in Product Development, where I realized I was less interested in how things begin and fascinated by where they end up. That curiosity led me to start working at a nonprofit recycling center in Atlanta and eventually moved me to Vermont where I served as an AmeriCorps member with the Addison County Solid Waste District.

I finished my Master’s in Sustainable Systems Development at Penn State in 2024, which helped me deepen my systems-thinking approach to waste. Today, I work as the Business Outreach Coordinator at the Chittenden Solid Waste District (CSWD), where I team up with businesses and institutions around Chittenden County to support recycling, composting, and waste reduction.

With a background in both design and sustainability, I try to bring a well-rounded perspective my work in waste diversion—making it approachable, practical, and a little less overwhelming. I’m also a certified Vermont Master Composter and was part of the 2023 Climate Catalyst Cohort through the Vermont Council on Rural Development.

Share a bit about your personal interests or hobbies.

Outside of work, I love getting my hands dirty in nature and through home DIY. I usually have a several projects going at once and tend to pick them up when inspiration strikes. Right now, I’m starting my garden, repainting a desk, and finishing a dress. When the weather is nice, I also love kayaking and walking the trails behind my apartment—it’s a great way to recharge and stay connected to the outdoors.

Recommend a local restaurant/shop/business that you love.

I love to thrift! I am happy at almost any secondhand store or garage sale, but my favorite Chittenden spots are ReSOURCE, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Five Corners Antiques, and The Vault Collective.

Tell us what you like most about living in the greater Burlington area.

I currently live in Bristol, but I love being able to work in the Burlington area. You can spend the day visiting great local restaurants and shops, picking apples from an orchard just a town over, and relaxing by the lake—all in one day. There is a special mix of nature, community, and culture here that you can't find in a lot of places.

Share what motivated you to join the BYP Advisory Board.

I started attending Burlington Young Professionals events to build new connections and engage with a generation of business leaders who are as motivated by sustainability and stewardship as I am. BYP isn’t like any other professional network I’ve seen—I was immediately drawn to the approachable, welcoming culture here. I joined the Advisory Board to help steward that community and stay connected to the energy and ideas that make it so special.