4 minute read
Behind the Scenes with Julie Basol
Each month, "Behind the Scenes" features an interview with a leader in our community designed to provide readers a glimpse into his/her interests and passions inside and outside of the workplace
This month, "Behind the Scenes" sat down with Basol, Executive Director of the Vergennes Partnership
What is your hometown?
I was born and raised on a farm outside Portland, North Dakota near the fabled city of Fargo.
Where did you go to school?
After high school, I attended the Lowthian School of Fashion Merchandising in Minneapolis, then later, received my Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Iowa State University.
First ever job?
I was the resident babysitter of the neighborhood, tending to my cousin’s children, of which there were many.
Who do you most admire?
I admire entrepreneurs who put their own finances on the line to build their business and create fine offerings to the public - especially the many men and women in the Little City!
Who was your greatest inspiration growing up?
In high school, I was very active in the Future Business Leaders of America. I participated in work-study at the local, family-owned department store. Jon Grinager was the 3rd generation owner; I thought he was God. He got me involved in marketing, payroll, buying, and all things related to running a business and the importance of community
Favorite Vacation Spot?
I have no one favorite spot as I’ve yet to explore many interesting places on this planet. I love a good sandy beach; I love to explore historical buildings and places; put me on a sailboat anytime and anywhere and I’m happy. Turks & Caicos and Portugal are both near and dear to my heart.
Favorite movie, TV Show?
Favorite type of music?
I grew up on county, so I guess it’s in my blood – but I do love a good showtune!
Typical work week?
Part time at Vergennes Partnership, however, there’s typically something that needs to be addressed each day. Like most people, lots of emails and phone calls; lots of opportunity to meet and work with interesting people and projects. I continually seek new ways of promoting the City of Vergennes in its best light.
What's the greatest career risk you have taken?
My biggest risk (which in hind sight seems small) was in 1998 as I left my job at The University of Vermont with all its secure benefits, including health, vacation, sick leave and a good 401(K) to start my own marketing consulting business. I guess I was a remote worker before it was a household word!
Who was your greatest inspiration growing up?
In high school, I was very active in the Future Business Leaders of America. I participated in work-study at the local, family-owned department store. Jon Grinager was the 3rd generation owner; I thought he was God. He got me involved in marketing, payroll, buying, and all things related to running a business and the importance of community
Favorite Vacation Spot?
I have no one favorite spot as I’ve yet to explore many interesting places on this planet. I love a good sandy beach; I love to explore historical buildings and places; put me on a sailboat anytime and anywhere and I’m happy. Turks & Caicos and Portugal are both near and dear to my heart.
Biggest Career Challenge?
Biggest career challenge is perhaps more like life challenge. In our early days my husband, Mark (a veterinarian), was working 6 and 7 days a week, along with on-call nights. With no regrets, I always knew that I’d be the ‘trailing’ spouse. Throughout my adult life, however, the positions I’ve held have been rewarding in a multitude of ways. Again, no regrets!
What's the one thing you would like to see change in your business/industry?
Like the world in general, the world seems to continually spin faster and faster. We live in a sound-bite world where communication often gets clouded and ill-conceived. I accept that this won’t likely change, I just continually try to stay positive and keep my own messaging precise.
