July 3, 2025

Tell us about your own journey to Bennington.

In 2008, I had been running a consulting company with my soon-to-be ex-husband and needed to forge a new path for myself. After a few interviews at the College, I was hired as the Assistant to the Provost and Dean of the College, Elissa Tenney.

I went on to be the Executive Assistant to President Liz Coleman and then Project Manager under CFO Laura Krause. I continued my career at the College because positions were not defined by a predetermined list of expectations, but rather by one's skills, interests, and abilities.

What do you do in your current position at the College?

I report part time to the CFO and Director of IT. I handle the data management of the budget, oversee the campus' meal plans, manage health center financial appeals, and engage in a myriad of various inter-departmental tasks.

I previously ran the campus bookstore for eight years and the COVID testing site for two years.

What do you love to do in your time away from Bennington? 

For the last two years, I have worked remotely from Arizona. I frequently travel and work from a fully-equipped B-class van. I love hiking, exploring cities and discovering new places, live music, and dancing. I also enjoy domestic and international travel with my daughter, Erica.

I continued my career at the College because positions were not defined by a predetermined list of expectations, but rather by one's skills, interests, and abilities. 

Project Manager Teresa Sholes

What are some of your proudest professional achievements?

I am very proud of my work as Bookstore Manger. While handling my many other tasks, I transformed the physical space of the Bookstore three times: first in its original space in the Barn, then in its temporary space in the EAC after the Barn fire, and finally in its current home in lower Commons. I kept it open and running all through COVID to meet the needs of students on campus.

What is your favorite part of working at Bennington?

My ever-changing position. I have often said that my position is not unlike the Plan process.

What advice do you want to share with current or prospective Bennington students?

Do not underestimate your current potential and your capacity for continuous learning. Believe that you can do and try so many different things. If something grabs your attention, even in the smallest way, listen to it!

What is your favorite spot on campus?

Walking the VAPA halls and stairs, then settling into a sunny window to look out over the lawn.