Will Greer '24: Bringing a Balanced Perspective to Government
Will Greer '24 is the Vermont State Representative for Bennington-2 State House District. He reflected on how his education shaped his path forward into politics, where he now advocates for the broader Bennington community.
Tell us about your current career—where are you working, and in what position?
I serve the Bennington-2 State House District, which includes Bennington College, as a Vermont State Representative.
What is the most rewarding and/or challenging aspect of your work now?
The most rewarding part of my work is being able to bring a balanced perspective to government and work with the most unlikely characters on the most unlikely of issues. The biggest challenge is tied between when to find time to eat and when to take a break–it's nonstop everyday during session!
What aspects of studying at Bennington prepared you best for the professional world?
Focusing my studies through the Center for the Advancement of Public Action (CAPA) helped me develop a sense of the world by diving head first into our community. I learned how to be a risk-taker and help shape policy in real time. I especially appreciate the time I spent studying with Brian Campion, Susan Sgorbati, and Rotimi Suberu, whose mentorship and guidance developed me into a more responsible and pragmatic leader.
How has attending Bennington shaped your professional path?
Many communities across our country do not have the open-minded and positive attitude that Bennington does. I am so fortunate to live among neighbors and friends who are willing to take a chance on others. In my case, I can't think of a town where a young person would be supported to represent their neighbors in the legislature. But it's not just politics; I hear this from people in the arts and sciences–they find a place to spread their wings and find themselves unlike any other place. Sometimes, we need a place that's "small" to make us realize how "big" we can become.
How do you keep the things you learned at Bennington in mind personally and/or professionally?
Though I am particularly lucky to be right in the College's backyard, I like to walk the fields around campus and I think about how I have grown my passions, interests, and outlook on the world.
Field Work Term also enabled me to explore my passions and learn to make progress, mistakes, and connections in what would become my home!
Photo: Will Greer '24 and his sisters at the Vermont State House.