In 1955, after serving as Chittenden County State’s Attorney and as Judge of Probate Court for the District of Chittenden, Clarke Gravel began a solo practice that would ultimately become Gravel & Shea, a full-service firm with 28 attorneys, 19 support staff, and aclient roster that includes individuals, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, local businesses, startups, and established international companies. Some Gravel & Shea team members have been with the firm for more than 30—and even 40—years.
The firm kicked off its anniversary year with an event at Foam Brewers on January 30. Lawyers, staff, clients, and former members of the Gravel & Shea family—including Charlie Shea and his wife Patricia—attended the celebration.
Gravel & Shea Managing Partner Bob Rushford spoke to the crowd of over 100. “While many things have changed over the years,” said Rushford, “one constant remains—the legacy of excellence that started with Clarke and Charlie. I know I can speak for all current employees when I say that we are honored and grateful to work at Gravel & Shea and hope to leave it in as good a condition for the next generation.”
In addition to hosting a number of celebratory events throughout 2020, Gravel & Shea is focusing on its charitable efforts as a way to thank the community and to reflect upon its success.
“To honor the legacy of our founders and to celebrate this milestone, we are supporting two local organizations throughout the year—the Vermont Women’s Fund and Hunger-Free Vermont,” says Gravel & Shea Partner Heather Hammond. “For over ten years, we have been a proud sponsor of the Vermont Women’s Fund’s work addressing economic security issues for women and girls in Vermont. This year, we are also partnering with Hunger-Free Vermont to help end the injustice of hunger and malnutrition for all Vermonters. We look forward to collaborating with these organizations to effect positive change in our community.”
