In Memoriam: Cassidy Rae Petit, A Trailblazer in Burlington’s Business Community
A Tragic Loss
The Burlington community is in mourning following the untimely demise of Cassidy Rae Petit, a vibrant and promising entrepreneur who left an indelible mark on the city’s business landscape. At the tender age of 26, Petit’s life was tragically cut short in a plane crash in Oakland, California, on January 14, 2024.
A Life Dedicated to Innovation and Community
Petit’s entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to fostering positive change within the Burlington community were evident throughout her remarkable career. After graduating from the University of Vermont in 2019, she immediately immersed herself in the city’s thriving business ecosystem.
As a founding member of Hula, a local co-working space and incubator, Petit played a pivotal role in creating a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs and innovators. Her passion for supporting startups and fostering collaboration within the community was infectious, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Petit’s entrepreneurial journey took an exciting turn when she joined Burlington Bio, a groundbreaking lab-grown-meat startup. With her unwavering belief in the potential of sustainable food systems, she dedicated herself to advancing the company’s mission of revolutionizing the way we produce and consume meat.
A Loving Partner and a Source of Inspiration
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Petit’s family and friends remember her as a devoted partner, a caring friend, and a constant source of inspiration. Her fiancé, Lochie Ferrier, a former test pilot at Beta, shared her passion for innovation and adventure. Tragically, he too perished in the plane crash.
A Celebration of Cassidy’s Life
In honor of Petit’s extraordinary life and contributions to the Burlington community, a memorial service will be held on January 28, 2024, at Hula, the co-working space where she left an enduring legacy. Friends, family, colleagues, and members of the community will gather to celebrate her life and cherish the memories of her unwavering spirit and unwavering dedication to making a positive impact.
A Legacy of Innovation and Impact
Cassidy Rae Petit’s untimely passing leaves a void in the Burlington business community. Her entrepreneurial spirit, passion for sustainability, and unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration will be deeply missed. Yet, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and innovators, reminding them of the transformative power of innovation and the importance of community.
Additional Information:
– Cassidy Rae Petit was a recipient of the Burlington Business Journal’s “30 Under 30” award in 2022.
– She was an active member of the Burlington Chamber of Commerce and served on the board of directors for the past two years.
– Petit was a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability and was actively involved in several local initiatives aimed at reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
– She is survived by her parents, John and Mary Petit, and her two younger siblings, Emily and Andrew.
Call to Action:
Cassidy Rae Petit’s life and legacy serve as an inspiration to us all. Let us honor her memory by embracing her entrepreneurial spirit, fostering collaboration within our communities, and striving to make a positive impact on the world.