The Class of 2026 has Earned their Moment — Now it’s Time to Celebrate
Graduating students from the class of 2026 shared their reflections on what VTSU means to them, what they’ve learned, and what comes next. Click into a card below to explore their stories and join us in celebrating their achievements.
“Working with the Criminal Justice Department has been awesome. Your first couple of semesters are really introductory-based, because it's such a wide system and there's so much to learn about it. And then I kind of developed a passion through both the faculty and the coursework here; it made me really hone in on what I actually wanted to do"
Anthony Persi
Criminal Justice
"The job placement rate after graduation was 99 percent…seeing other programs, they were not that high, and the connections here were amazing. I also came for orientation and met with the teachers, and I could feel the vibe that they encourage you to do things and expect you to be successful when they set you up for an opportunity.”
Gabby Jones
Construction Management
"My experience at Vermont State University prepared me for what comes next by giving me the content knowledge and hands-on experiences needed to create inclusive and developmentally appropriate learning experiences for young children."
Jennifer Coonradt
Early Childhood Education
"Throughout my nursing education at the VTSU Williston campus, my instructors have supported me not only academically, but also emotionally and physically during difficult times and health challenges."
Yim Nuttachai
Nursing
"Really look into these colleges—make sure the school you pick is something that is going to be a good fit for you, and if you get into a college and you don't like it, it is okay to change. Do what's best for you mentally, physically. Coming back home was a really good change for me."
Audrey Tembreull
Communications
"VTSU allowed me to participate in a variety of activities and to network with people in various fields. This has helped me with finding jobs and making a name for myself as a performing musician in the area."
Hannah Bowie
Music Education
"Through lectures, simulation labs, and clinical rotations, I developed critical thinking, time management, communication, and patient care skills. The program also taught me resilience, adaptability, and how to remain calm under pressure—qualities that are essential in nursing."
Nicole King
Nursing
"Take advantage of every opportunity this school has. Too many students are unaware about programs like TRiO or ways that they can set themselves up for a better future. This school is blessed with so many great opportunities that students just need to seek out."
Hunter Day
History
"Don't be afraid to go outside your comfort zone. I was terrified to go to the Harvard National Model UN Conference my first year and that nervousness never really went away but I learned to embrace it. You do not grow as a person in a state of comfort."
William Vaughn-Reuben Stevens
Political Science
"Being in supportive spaces with people who are rooting for my success gave me the courage to try new experiences, become a leader in many different ways, and not be scared of failing."
Olivia Whiting
Music Education