Virginia Brown

Growing up in New England, some of Virginia’s fondest memories are summers spent on the coast of Maine, camping in the New Hampshire mountains, and exploring the 1000 Islands on the New York/Canadian border. Those experiences fostered her love of nature and led to a deep appreciation for the unique ecosystems supporting these communities. Her passion for the environment extended to her graduate studies, with her master’s thesis focused on the concept of the “greenworld” and how that natural world was used as a literary device to contrast and disrupt societal norms.

Avon has been home to Virginia for over 20 years, but her connection to the rural character of the town began during her youth spending time in Avon visiting family friends and frequenting the quaint shops in town, including The Little Silver Shop and historic spots like the Avon Cider Mill and the Pickin’ Patch. She raised her 4 children in Avon and found many opportunities to share her love of the outdoors with her children – running, hiking, biking, golfing, horseback riding, and frequent visits to working farms in the area.

Professionally, Virginia is a former fundraiser with capital campaign and major gift experience and currently a practicing attorney with the State of Connecticut, Office of Governmental Accountability. Her 20+ years of legal experience includes a variety of practice areas, including land use, preservation, and conservation; trusts and estates; administrative law and regulatory compliance; and litigation. She is a current member of the Oliver Ellsworth Inn of Court and for many years served on the American Bar Association Real Estate Litigation Committee.

Virginia’s love of nature and the outdoors (and concern about the dwindling open spaces in Avon) influenced her decision to join the board of the Avon Land Trust. She focuses on preservation and conservation – partnering with Avon landowners to ensure that Avon’s open spaces remain open, protected, and viable ecosystems.