Melody Mackin, MA, Commissioner of the VTRC (she/her) is a mother and educator. She grew up along the Missisquoi River in Highgate, VT. She is currently one of three Truth and Reconciliation Commissioners for the State of Vermont and previously worked with the Atowi Project. She is a citizen of the Elnu Abenaki Band and has previously served as the vice chair, secretary, and chair of the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs.
She received her master's degree in history and is a member of the VT Abenaki Artists Association.
Mia Schultz, Commissioner of the VTRC (she/her) As a mixed-race Black woman, Mia brings a wealth of personal experience and unwavering commitment to her role, advocating for truth, healing, and reconciliation within Vermont's diverse communities.
Originally hailing from the southwestern deserts of Arizona, Mia embarked on a transformative journey from Southern California, eventually finding her home in the town of Bennington, Vermont, in 2016. Her dedication to advancing civil rights and education has earned her prestigious accolades, including being recognized as a human rights champion by both the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Education Association.
Mia's dedication to uplifting marginalized voices extends beyond her role as Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner. Currently, she serves as the President of National Advancement for the Association of Colored People (NAACP), a volunteer position that requires an intricate understanding of civil rights, policy, legislation, and advocacy for disenfranchised and often invisibilized communities. Mia's influence also resonates through her participation on various boards including service to the State of Vermont Ethnic and Social equity standards working group which was tasked with developing educational standards that are inclusive to all students. This service coupled with her development of culturally appropriate curricula addressing issues of race and racism has demonstrated a dedication to equity within Vermont schools.
In an historic milestone, Mia Schultz became the first Black woman to assume the role of Chair for the Bennington Democratic Party, a testament to her devotion to shaping more inclusive and diverse political landscapes. Beyond her leadership in formal institutions, Mia has dedicated herself to training and empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, BIPOC, people with disabilities, and those with intersecting identities, in the art of leadership development. Her work as a community organizer has mobilized communities to address systemic issues and enact positive change.
Dr. Faith Yacubian, (she/her/they/them). Executive Director of the State of Vermont's Truth and Reconciliation Commission; Faith has a noteworthy career spanning 17 years at Champlain College.
Faith has a wealth of experience and a passionate drive for change. As an Associate Professor in Interdisciplinary Studies, Faith's work has centered on empowering students through innovative teaching methods informed by Social Justice Education, Queer Theory, and Black Feminist Epistemology.
Guided by a profound belief in humanitarianism and community empowerment, Faith's commitment is further exemplified by her involvement in the Shelburne Equity and Diversity Committee and dedicated volunteer services at the Winooski Food Shelf since 2020.
Michele Olvera, (she/her) is the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's General Legal Counsel. Michele spent almost 30 years advocating for and litigating on behalf of victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. She was also a high school history teacher.
Michele has lived in Vermont for 15 years and considers Burlington her permanent home.
Mariessa Dobrick (she/her) is the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Lead
Researcher. Mariessa previously worked as an archivist for the Vermont State Archives and Records Administration for thirteen years. In her previous role, she presented all over the state on historic topics and taught individuals how to do their own family histories. Her crowning achievement from that period was speaking on the podcast “The Last Archive” with Jill Lapore.
Mariessa grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and her life has been enriched by friends and family from many different backgrounds and traditions.
Ann Miller, (she/her) is Vermont’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Executive Assistant and a lifetime Vermonter, wife, mother, and grandmother.
Of French-Canadian descent, 2nd generation, Miller grew up in Central Vermont and spent most of her lengthy working career in insurance, investments, and finance. The Truth and Reconciliation Committee brings a new perspective to this world, and she looks forward to continually learning from this commission.
In her spare time, Miller enjoys spending time with family first and foremost, as well as traveling and exploring the country, enjoying each new place for its uniqueness.