Joan Goldstein (left) received the C. Harry Behney Award for Excellence in Economic Development and Cassie Polhemus (right) the Robert A. Skiff Community Improvement Award at GBIC’s 2025 Annual Meeting
Burlington, VT (June 25, 2025) – Joan Goldstein and Cassie Polhemus were recognized by their peers at the Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation (GBIC) annual meeting for their exceptional work to improve the economic well-being of Vermonters and their communities.
Goldstein, who served Vermont as Commissioner of Economic Development for over a decade and is the incoming CEO of the Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA), received the C. Harry Behney Lifetime Economic Development Achievement Award.
Polhemus, who is stepping down as CEO of VEDA, was honored for a career dedicated to advancing educational and economic opportunity in Vermont, receiving the Robert A. Skiff Community Improvement Award.
“These two women are incredibly deserving of this recognition,” said Frank Cioffi, president of GBIC. “Joan has been Vermont’s go-to for economic development for the past decade, working in both the Shumlin and Scott administrations. She’s a tireless partner, truly innovative leader, and creative deal maker.”
“Cassie guided VEDA with clear leadership for more than ten years, expanding financial services and access to capital for both leading and emerging employers, and laying the groundwork for the creation of hundreds of new jobs in Vermont. She and Joan have had a significant impact in supporting employers and creating economic opportunity for Vermonters.”
About the C. Harry Behney Lifetime Economic Development Achievement Award
Established in 1995 to honor former GBIC and Cynosure president, C. Harry Behney, this award recognizes a Vermonter who has greatly and positively impacted the economy of Vermont and improved the economic well-being of Vermonters and their communities.
About the Robert A. Skiff Community Improvement Award
Celebrating the life and career of Bob Skiff, who dedicated himself to advancing the well-being of his fellow Vermonters, this award is presented annually by the board of directors of Cynosure and GBIC to an outstanding Vermonter who has strengthened community and improved educational and economic opportunity in Chittenden County and Vermont.
About GBIC and Cynosure
The Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation helps solve problems with leading employers to create economic well-being for Vermonters. Cynosure is the real estate arm of GBIC, focused on developing industrial properties to support local economic growth. For more information: gbicvt.org
