Alison Clarkson (Windsor)

Alison Hudnut Clarkson is a Democratic State Senator representing Windsor County District in the Vermont State Senate, where she serves as Majority Leader. Born on April 26, 1955, in Buffalo, N.Y., she has been a key figure in Vermont politics for over two decades, first elected to the Vermont House in 2004 representing Plymouth, Reading, and Woodstock, and transitioning to the Senate in 2016. Notable achievements include chairing the Senate Sexual Harassment Panel, vice-chairing the Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs Committee, and serving on the Government Operations Committee, Legislative Climate Solutions Caucus, Women’s Caucus, and State Workforce Development Board. She has championed legislation expanding end-of-life care options, reducing housing development barriers, and advancing data/genetic privacy and housing targets in town plans. Previously a theater producer in New York for 15 years, she has been active in arts and environmental boards, earning awards like Woodstock Rotary’s “Citizen of the Year” in 2002, Vermont Natural Resources Council’s “Outstanding Vermont Legislator Award” in 2008, and Vermont Farm Bureau’s “Stephanie Bourdeau Women in Agriculture Leadership Award.” She announced her retirement from the Legislature after the 2026 session.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Educated at institutions including the Park School of Buffalo; specific degrees not detailed in records.
• Pre-Political Career: Theater producer in New York ; board service with Pentangle Council on the Arts, Vermont Arts Council, Vermont Natural Resources Council, Billings Park Commission , Sustainable Woodstock, Adirondack Council, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and current Vermont Symphony Orchestra board.
• Political Experience:
  • Vermont House Representative, Windsor-5 District .
  • Vermont State Senator, Windsor District ; Majority Leader .
  • Committee roles: Vice-Chair, Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs; Government Operations; former House Judiciary, Ways and Means, Joint Legislative Council; UVA Task Force chair; Department of Liquor & Lottery Task Force; Joint Committee on Rules; Legislative Committee on Judicial Rules; Rules Committee.