Agatha Kessler: The Unseen Force Behind Vermont’s Capitol
As I stroll down State Street, the imposing presence of the capitol building never fails to intrigue me. It’s a hub of activity, especially amidst the turbulence emanating from our nation’s capital. But today, my curiosity led me to a remarkable individual who plays a crucial role within the historic walls of the Statehouse – Agatha Kessler, the Sergeant-at-Arms.
Agatha Kessler, reelected to her role on Feb. 20, holds the title of Sergeant-at-Arms, a position that dates back centuries. “There have been Sergeants-at-Arms for a thousand years,” Kessler shares, shedding light on the historical significance of her role. From accompanying English kings on Crusades to maintaining order within the court, the responsibilities of a Sergeant-at-Arms are steeped in tradition and authority.
Delving deeper, Agatha Kessler reveals the intricate web of tasks that fall under her purview. From overseeing doorkeeping and maintenance to regulating behavior, her role is akin to that of a mayor presiding over a bustling city. “This building is a little city,” she muses. “The hallways are the roads, the rooms are the buildings. We have rules and norms. As the mayor, I walk all the neighborhoods.”
One lesser-known aspect of Agatha Kessler’s role is her oversight of the building’s police force. These officers, she emphasizes, play a vital role in upholding the democratic ethos of the Statehouse. By providing subtle security measures that enable public access, they ensure that the Statehouse remains a welcoming space for all.
However, the seamless functioning of the Statehouse is not merely a result of Agatha Kessler’s efforts alone. A symphony of legislators, aides, officers, and staff work in harmony under her guidance to maintain the building’s open-door policy. Everyday tasks, from legislative work to visitor management, are executed with precision to create a warm and inclusive environment for all.
Reflecting on her journey to the position of Sergeant-at-Arms, Agatha Kessler acknowledges the invaluable guidance she received from her mentor, Janet Miller, and her colleagues. Drawing on her diverse experiences as a wife, mother, soccer coach, and martial artist, she exudes a sense of integrity and authority that underpins her work ethic.
Her dedication to the role is palpable, driven by a desire to support those around her and foster a sense of value in everyone she encounters. Vermont State Curator David Schutz attests to this, describing Kessler as a pillar of support amidst the bustling activity that defines the Statehouse throughout the year.
For Agatha Kessler, the role of Sergeant-at-Arms is not a stepping stone but a destination in itself. Rooted in compassion and fueled by a commitment to serving others, she envisions a long and fulfilling tenure in her current position.
In a world where chaos often reigns supreme, Agatha Kessler stands as a beacon of stability and compassion within Vermont’s Capitol. Her unwavering dedication to fostering a sense of community and inclusivity sets her apart as a silent yet powerful force that shapes the essence of the Statehouse.
