Vermont Democratic Disability Caucus

Keilani is a disability rights activist and a person living with disability and chronic illness. She currently serves as a member of the Disability Community Advisory Board for Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE).

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She holds a degree in Fine Art in Advertising and has built a dynamic career in marketing, working with nonprofits, startups, and small businesses. Her work has taken her across a range of sectors, from helping shape Vermont’s medical cannabis program to leading marketing efforts for a world-renowned youth circus.

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In addition to her advocacy and professional achievements, Keilani is an accomplished painter with a small but engaged following.

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As an activist, she is dedicated to centering the voices and experiences of people with disabilities. Her work focuses on improving accessibility, expanding educational opportunities, and raising awareness about disability rights and justice to drive meaningful change.

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Outside of her professional life, Keilani is an avid gardener and amateur herbalist. She lives in a 200-year-old farmhouse in Vergennes, Vermont with her fiancé, Dan, and their goofy mutt, Mookie Petts.

Nick has long been passionate about politics and the law, and his experience reflects that commitment. He graduated with a degree in Political Science in 2015 and recently completed an internship with the Vermont Democratic Party, deepening his understanding of party operations and grassroots organizing.

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A proud public servant, Nick currently serves as Town Chair of Swanton and is an active member of the Franklin County Democratic Committee, where he helps coordinate local strategy and encourage civic engagement. He also serves as a delegate to the State Committee representing Franklin County.

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Nick’s political aspirations include pursuing a professional career in either politics or law. Volunteering has been central to his journey; he consistently lends his time to support Democratic efforts across Vermont, helping with outreach, campaign activity, and community organizing.

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Before his current political involvement, Nick gained diverse workforce experience as a person with a disability; he’s held regular jobs at McDonald’s and worked in a factory, jobs that have grounded him in the realities of working-class life and informed his approach to public service.

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Blending his professional ambitions with real-world experience and grassroots leadership, Nick brings enthusiasm, empathy, and a clear vision for leveraging politics to create meaningful change in Vermont.

Patty Keough (she/her) is a passionate advocate, creative spirit, and dedicated community member whose life and work reflect deep empathy and resilience.

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After being disabled out of her position in computer technology in 2006 due to chronic pain in her hands, knees, back, and feet, Patty shifted her focus to advocacy and the arts. Living with chronic pain is a daily challenge, but it hasn’t stopped her from finding new ways to contribute to her community.

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Patty is a singer, songwriter, performer, comedian, and emcee who brings humor, heart, and humanity to every stage she steps on. Her creative work is infused with the same spirit of connection that fuels her advocacy.

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She is also a devoted animal lover who independently rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes cats, working closely with Second Chance and Francis of Assisi Animal Rescue in Bennington, Vermont. Her home is often a haven for feline friends in need.

As someone living with disability, Patty is committed to helping others navigate the complex landscape of paperwork, systems, and daily realities that come with it. “It’s a full-time job in itself,” she says, and she approaches that work with compassion and lived experience.

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Patty also lends her tech, communications, and social media skills to support causes she believes in—offering her expertise to help build awareness and support for grassroots efforts throughout her community.