Ways To Give: What Other Alums Are Saying
Proud sponsor of sja
NFP Insurance, an Aon Company
Seated Left to Right: Gabrielle Fontaine, Andrea Bugbee, Emily Rainville Grass ’11, Jennifer Bearce Crown ’98, Lyndsey Farnsworth Cochran ’98, Michelle Roya, Angela Ball, Taylor Quintin. Standing Left to Right: Pat Cahoon ’97, Katrina Croft, Brittany Walsh, Kathryn Vereline Lemieux ’11, Mike Fleurie ’79, Alan Ruggles ’84, Jonah Hutchins ‘15, Shane Lacroix ’12, Matt Chamberlain, David Mitchell, Jessica DiMartino
Proud Sponsor of St. Johnsbury Academy
NFP, an Aon Company, is a global insurance firm with a strong local presence—right here in St. Johnsbury. While the company operates worldwide with over 7,700 employees, its St. Johnsbury office is home to 35 dedicated team members, 23 of whom are proud alumni of St. Johnsbury Academy.
NFP was one of the first local businesses to commit as a top-tier sponsor in the Academy’s new comprehensive sponsorship program, launched in 2024. Their generous support continues a legacy of community investment and dedication to the school.
That legacy began over 30 years ago with local businessman Paul Poulos and his company, Poulos Insurance. A respected and generous member of the St. Johnsbury community, Paul held the Academy in high regard and provided meaningful support throughout his life. His children and grandchildren have attended the school, and now, his first great-grandchild is preparing to graduate from SJA.
Paul’s contributions to the Academy are honored each year through the Paul Poulos Business Award, presented to a graduating senior pursuing a degree in business.
Reflecting on her father’s legacy, Nancy Poulos ’77 shared, “My dad was a truly generous businessman, known for his unwavering commitment to both his work and his community. He gave not just material things, but also his time, attention, and care. He found joy in connecting with people—always curious about their stories, what made them unique.
“His love for St. Johnsbury Academy was especially evident. He believed education was a cornerstone of community growth, a sentiment deepened by his close friendship with Headmaster Bernier Mayo. He supported SJA not only financially, but by actively participating in programs and events, always encouraging others to do the same. His legacy of generosity and support lives on—a testament to his belief that success should always be shared.”
A New Chapter with NFP
The 2014 acquisition of Poulos Insurance by NFP marked an exciting new chapter, blending the trusted, personalized service of a local agency with the global expertise and expanded offerings of a major insurance provider.
This partnership ensured that customers and community members continued to receive the high-quality service they’d come to expect—now with access to a broader range of insurance solutions designed to meet evolving needs. NFP has continued to build on that foundation, offering even more competitive and comprehensive coverage while maintaining the close-knit, client-first approach that defined Poulos Insurance.
“The insurance industry has evolved dramatically over the last decade,” said NFP’s Senior Vice President Patrick Cahoon ’97. “NFP’s acquisition of Poulos Insurance allowed us to grow with those changes, giving our clients access to world-class products and services while continuing to serve them through our local team—the heart of our success from the beginning.”
He continued, “Long-term retention and growth of high-performing local staff is a priority for us. As someone born and raised in St. Johnsbury, I’ve never seen a greater need for our community to come together and support the development of our youth.”
“SJA is the cornerstone of that effort. As a business leader who’s seen the generational impact of SJA alumni on our company and our community, I jumped at the opportunity Alan [Ruggles] offered for NFP to support the comprehensive sponsorship program. Enhancing the broad range of programs beyond the core curriculum gives students valuable experiences that open doors—right here in St. Johnsbury.
That opportunity matters to all of us.”
Academy Pride, Local Roots
Beyond their exceptional service, NFP’s St. Johnsbury office proudly celebrates its strong connection to the Academy. Many employees at the local and state levels are SJA alumni—another testament to the school’s lasting impact on the region.
We extend our sincere thanks to NFP, an Aon Company, for their loyal and steadfast support of St. Johnsbury Academy.
Learn more about sponsorship opportunities here or contact Director of Development Brynn Reynolds Evans ’98 by phone at (802) 751-2129 or by email at brynn.evans@stjacademy.org.