AARP Vermont Welcomes New Volunteer State President

AARP Vermont is pleased to announce that Elizabeth (Beth) Stern has been selected to serve as Volunteer State President, the organization's highest volunteer position in the state. With a passion for improving the lives of older adults, Stern brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in policy, aging, and social impact to the role.

“I am excited and honored to take on the role of Volunteer State President for Vermont. It is the perfect marriage of my background in elder services and my experience in legislative advocacy, allowing me to stay involved in issues that are important to me and to older Vermonters,” said Stern. “I look forward to working with the AARP staff and volunteers.”

Stern is a longtime advocate for older Vermonters, with over 30 years of experience in aging services and public policy. From 2020 to 2025, she served as an Outreach Representative for Senator Bernie Sanders, focusing on health care, seniors, disability, nutrition, and economic justice—connecting Vermont communities with federal policy and vice versa. Prior to that, she spent 30 years at Central Vermont Council on Aging, including 15 years as Executive Director, developing partnerships and leading advocacy at the local, state, and national levels, including service on the USAging (formerly N4A) board. She also has experience as a case manager for adults with developmental disabilities and as an English teacher in Japan. Beth holds a master’s degree in Intercultural Management from the School for International Training and a bachelor of arts degree in Anthropology from Stanford, along with certifications in gerontology and nonprofit management.

"We could not be more thrilled to have Beth Stern as our new Volunteer State President. Beth’s extensive experience and dedication working to empower people 50 and older aligns perfectly with AARP’s mission as we work to advocate for what matters most to Vermonters as they age,” said AARP Vermont State Director Greg Marchildon.

In her new role as Volunteer State President, Stern will work closely with AARP staff and volunteers to advance the organization's mission, mobilize community members and partners, and advocate on behalf of older Vermonters on key issues affecting their lives. Stern succeeds Linda Bowden as Volunteer State President after a successful six-year term.