Like many of the students who choose Southern Vermont College, Liz Oakes (Graham) was attracted by the beautiful location and the small size of the College.  Many of her friends were planning to attend larger universities, but Liz did not believe she could focus on studies in such an environment.  She transferred to Southern Vermont College her sophomore year and spent two very busy years as a Criminal Justice major with a minor in Sociology.

Liz was an involved student on campus.  Athletics included soccer, softball, and basketball.  She was a member of the Student Government, an Upward Bound leader, and a freshman mentor.  It's no wonder Liz received the "Who's Who" award while at Southern Vermont College.   

Her participation in these various activities gave Liz the sense of always being part of a team.  She attributes her ability to focus on group achievement to her college experiences.  "Although much of what I have done professionally has been individual, I realize I am always part of a group.  I know that my actions will have consequences for others.  Playing sports helped me become a better leader and taught me to focus on others.  Your ethics, morals, and values define you; if you don't live up to what you believe in, then what are you demonstrating for others?"

Liz truly embodies the Southern Vermont College mission to be a lifelong learner and a community leader.  She spent eight years, following her graduation from the Vermont Police Academy, as a police officer in Bennington and Winhall.  She then worked for Rutland Mental Health at the SUCCESS School as a Therapeutic Case Manager, counseling troubled youth and their families. 

Liz is a Nationally Certified Emergency Medical Technician and an Outdoor Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician, certified by the Stonehearth Open Learning Opportunity (SOLO).  She has earned credits toward certification in substance abuse counseling and continues her training and education in working with troubled youth.

On April 15, 2002, Liz married Timothy Oakes of Bondville, Vermont.  Liz and Tim share their home with two German Shepherds, Sequoyah and Cinder.   Liz enjoys running, skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.  She keeps in touch with many friends from Southern Vermont College, and can be reached at eoakes21@hotmail.com.

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