Berlin, VT — The Vermont Chamber of Commerce announced Wednesday the selection of Leo O’Brien Jr. and Daniel J. O’Brien, founders of O’Brien Brothers, as the 2018 Citizens of the Year. Leo and Daniel will be celebrated at an awards dinner on Thursday, December 6 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel (formerly known as the Sheraton) in South Burlington.
The O’Brien brothers were selected by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce for the Citizen of the Year Award for their extensive community leadership and continual devotion to the betterment of Vermont.
For over six decades, Leo and Dan have been prominent members of the Vermont business and civic communities. With strong roots in Vermont agriculture, public service and real estate development, the O’Brien brothers have led varied careers that have at their core kept the needs of Vermont at the forefront.
“They both represent a truly unique Vermont story,” said Evan Langfeldt, CEO of O’Brien Brothers. “Having grown up as farm kids in South Burlington, started and ran a successful business for more than half a century that positively contributed to Vermont’s economy and livability, made significant contributions to their local community and the entire state, and have now successfully managed to transition their business to the next generation with strong assets and a bright future outlook – not an easy task.”
“Leo and Dan are an inspiration for community engagement and economic growth, and an exemplary representation of the finest ideals of Vermont citizenship,” said Betsy Bishop, president of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “We are honored to present this award to the O’Brien brothers.”
Recent recipients of the Citizen of the Year award include RADM Richard W. Schneider, USCGR (Ret.), Bill Stritzler, Janette Bombardier, Stephen C. Terry, U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, and Antonio Pomerleau.
