Recently launched program immerses students in Vermont businesses, with Hula companies among early partners
A new chapter in experiential learning has begun at the University of Vermont's Grossman School of Business with the launch of its first-ever Co-op program, designed to immerse students in real-world business experiences while supporting the state’s thriving entrepreneurial landscape.
Led by Director Stephanie Meunier and Engagement Specialist Jennifer O’Neill, the co-op program bridges the gap between academic theory and professional practice. “This is a dream realized,” says Meunier, a Grossman alum who longed for a program like this during her student days. “It’s about helping students get career-ready while feeding Vermont’s growing economic ecosystem with top talent.”
University of Vermont's Grossman School of Business
What Sets a Co-op Apart from an Internship?
Unlike internships, which are typically short-term and often task-based, Co-ops provide students with full-time, paid, project-based roles for four-to-six months. This format allows students to become deeply embedded in company culture and contribute meaningfully to substantial projects. “It’s a ‘try before you buy’ model for employers,” says O’Neill. “And it gives students the chance to experience meaningful, hands-on work.”
A Major Investment in Vermont’s Future
Backed by a $15 million endowment from the Grossman Family Foundation, the program is launching with its first job roles set for January 2026. Already, two well-known Hula-based companies—EngageCFO and New Breed Marketing—have signed on to host Co-op students, signaling strong local enthusiasm for the initiative.
“We’re excited about what this means for Vermont,” Meunier shares. “The Co-op model is not just about job readiness -- it's about strengthening our local talent pipeline and showing brilliant young professionals career opportunities here in the state and beyond”
Jen O'Neill (left) and Stephanie Meunier (right) are pioneering the UVM Grossman School of Business Co-op
Calling All Employers
Employers interested in joining the program are encouraged to begin conversations now. Job postings for the first Co-op cohort will begin this fall, with students slated to begin job roles in January 2026. Grossman's team works closely with organizations to make the process seamless—from shaping roles to matching students and providing ongoing support throughout the experience.
To ensure a successful Co-op placement, employers must meet three key criteria:
- Budget: The position must be paid—students are full-time employees during the Co-op period, and Grossman is available to consult on competitive wage benchmarks.
- Coaching Capacity: companies should have the managerial capacity to coach and mentor students throughout their placement, as professional growth is a core goal of the program.
- Environment: the work environment should be immersive, ideally with in-person engagement. Hybrid models are welcome, but fully virtual roles are not currently being considered, in response to students’ strong desire for on-site learning and connection.
As O’Neill puts it: “It’s not just about building résumés—it’s about building Vermont’s future.”
Learn more by emailing Jen O'Neill at Jennifer.Oneill@uvm.edu or visiting the UVM Grossman School of Business Co-op website
