Green Mountain Job & Retention Center

Spring 2023 Graduates: Applications Open for New Loan Repayment Program for Students Earning a B.A. or B.S. at a Vermont College

The State of Vermont, in collaboration with the University of Vermont and Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC), has set up the Green Mountain Job & Retention Program, which offers up to $5,000 in loan repayment awards to encourage new graduates from Vermont colleges and universities to stay and work in Vermont after graduation.

All Castleton University, Northern Vermont University, and Vermont Technical College spring 2023 graduates with a bachelor’s degree may apply!

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis based on regional, employer, and institutional distribution criteria. Program FAQs and the VSAC link to apply are at VermontState.edu/GMJobRetentionProgram .

All University Update December 14, 2022

Greetings Vermont State University community,

As we begin to close out the semester, I offer my appreciation to all of you for your incredible efforts these past few months. Students, thank you for your hard work throughout the semester. You are close to the finish line – and I’m rooting for you all! Faculty and staff, thank you again for your work supporting our students and for all the extra contributions you have made in your work as we build Vermont State. If you have any news to share as you complete the year, please click here to submit your news! If you have a suggestion to share, please click here to send it to me.

As we enter the new year, I want to share with our entire community our new values statement, which will be of critical importance as we forge forward together as Vermont State University.

Here’s to a successful end to 2022, with best wishes for a rewarding 2023.

Yours,
President Grewal

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Transformation Updates

We are pleased to announce three Vermont State University leadership appointments:

  • Jayshree Bhat will be the Associate Vice President of Workforce, Community, and Economic Development
  • Lindsey Melo begins her role as Assistant Vice President of People and Culture
  • Mari Perez is the new Assistant Vice President of Sponsored Programs

Please join us in welcoming Jayshree, Lindsey, and Mari!

VSCS Transformation Newsletter

Additional transformation updates can be found in the most recent Sway.

This issue includes the following:

  • Reminder: Transformation Update #43
  • IT Shared Service Next Steps
  • Student Advisory Council November Meeting Summary
  • Transformation Project Updates
  • Announcing Three New Vermont State University Leadership Appointments
  • Spotlight: Complementary Roles & Workforce Development System-wide
  • Vermont State Colleges in the News

VTSU Office of the President Communications and Organization Chart

President’s Office Communications

To send an inquiry or meeting request to President Grewal, please use President@VermontState.edu. The President’s Office staff, including Michelle Graham and Barb Flathers (Johnson campus) and Rita Geno (Castleton campus) will be happy to support you.

Vermont State Organization Chart

All VTSU employees can access a new and helpful Vermont State organizational chart in UKG (UltiPro).

To access this chart:

  1. Login into UKG
  2. Click on your personal tab (Myself)
  3. Scroll down the list about half way and you will see the My Company category with the Organization Chart
  4. Click on Organization Chart
  5. In the chart you can click and drag with your mouse to move through the chart or you can use the search bar to search a name.

Upcoming Vermont State University Events

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

  • First day of classes for spring 2023

Around Our Campuses

Castleton Campus

WPTZ-TV – Castleton Nurses Pass Licensure Test Well Above National Average

“We’re really, really excited that something’s going very well here,” said Helen Papeika, assistant professor and nursing chair at Castleton University. “We’re meeting the needs of the community, we’re meeting the needs of the students, faculty and staff across nursing and other departments.” Watch now.

Johnson Campus

Pocket Wetland Restoration Underway on Johnson Campus

“This project is a first step in making the campus grounds more sustainable,” Professor Lisa Zinn said. “With climate change, the storm events are getting more frequent in Vermont, and all of the surface water running off lawns and roads is running into streams and rivers.” Read the entire article. Read more.

Lyndon Campus

Out and About with NVU’s Outdoor Education, Leadership, and Tourism Program

NVU’s Outdoor Education, Leadership, and Tourism program faculty and students have been out in the local and regional community learning and sharing their knowledge in a variety of ways this semester. Read more.

Randolph Campus

Vermont Tech Hosts Inaugural Athletics Hall of Fame Ceremony

“The athletes inaugurated into this first Hall of Fame class showed exceptional talent and willingness to work hard both in the classroom and on the playing surface,” said Hilary Linehan, Director of Athletics and Recreation. Read more.

Share your news!

Submit your story to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on social media.

All University Update November 28, 2022

Greetings Vermont State University community,

Welcome back from the Thanksgiving holiday! I hope you had a restful few days, doing the things you enjoy with the people you care about.

There are just three weeks left in the fall semester and only a little over a month until we welcome 2023. My best wishes to you on final exams and projects. To our December graduates, my congratulations to you on your hard work to complete your degree.

Tomorrow is #GivingTuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back. Watch for a special message from me about how we can all participate in a campaign to support students and the high-impact education they receive at our Vermont State University institutions.

Yours,
President Grewal

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Transformation Updates

We have welcomed Amy Daviarz, the new Title IX and Protected Rights Coordinator for Vermont State University. Amy joins the Office of the Chancellor in Montpelier while she completes her training under Kathryn Santiago’s supervision. She will then transition over to Vermont State University. Welcome, Amy! Additional transformation updates can be found in the most recent Sway.

This issue includes the following:

  • Title IX and Protected Rights Coordinator for VTSU
  • Spotlight: Updates from VSCS Library Transformation
  • Transformation Project Updates
  • The CCV Graduate Connection VTSU
  • Vermont State Colleges in the News

Upcoming Vermont State University Events

Town Hall Meetings

President Grewal invites all faculty, staff, and students to Town Hall meetings on:

Open House

Vermont State University In the News

New England Cable News: Team USA Athletes Savor Thanksgiving Week Stop in Vt. on World Cup Circuit

WCAX-TV: How Killington partners with a Vermont college to staff the ski resort

From Our Campuses

Castleton

Take a Moment at the Mandala

“The Mandala is something that every student walks by,” Jennifer said. “But what the students might not know is that the Mandala is an interactive sculpture, and the marble centerpiece turns.” Read the entire article.

Vermont Tech

History Is Made at Cross Country Nationals

Trevor Kipp, who graduated Brattleboro High School in 2019 became the first All-American male athlete for Vermont Technical College Friday when he finished third at the USCAA Cross Country Nationals in Virginia Beach. Read the entire article.

Share your news!

Submit your story to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on social media.

Quote/Unquote

“Our campuses are excited to participate in Giving Tuesday, which is the biggest giving day of the year around the world. We have three unique campaigns running at Castleton, NVU, and Vermont Tech in order to meet the individual needs of our campuses. Just like Vermont State University, #GivingTuesday is not about just one thing…it’s about all of us, and we hope that you will make a gift to the campaign of your choice to help us meet our goals!”

-Lauren Philie, Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement

All University Update November 18, 2022

Greetings Vermont State University community,

As we prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to share my gratitude to you for your hard work, commitment, and innovations all through the year. I know navigating the changes and uncertainty have been difficult, but your contributions have been tremendous. You are part of a unique endeavor and are building something remarkable for the state of Vermont.

Thank you to the faculty and staff for all you are doing. To our students, thank you for continuing to inspire us and be the living proof of our professional commitment.

Yours,
President Grewal

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Transformation Updates

Please join me in congratulating two more Vermont State University leadership appointments: Deanna Tyson will be the Assistant Vice President of Athletics and Fitness and Lauren Philie will be the Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations. Both Deanna and Lauren were in interim positions prior to these appointments. Additional transformation updates can be found in the most recent Sway.

This issue includes the following:

  • Spotlight: An Update on Systems Projects
  • First-Generation College Celebration Day: November 8th
  • Transformation Project Updates
  • Progress Report Accepted by NECHE
  • Announcing Three Vermont State University Leadership Appointments
  • Vermont State Colleges in the News

Upcoming Vermont State University Events

Town Hall Meetings

President Grewal invites all faculty, staff, and students to Town Hall meetings on:

In the News

Parwinder Grewal Settles In as the First President of Vermont State University

Vermont colleges growing cannabis education programs

From Our Campuses

Castleton

Men’s Hockey’s Alderson Featured on NHL.com

Castleton University men’s ice hockey freshman forward Mason Alderson, a native of London, England, was recently featured on NHL.com’s “Color of Hockey” series—a running series penned by William Douglas that covers people of color in the sport of hockey. Read the entire article.

NVU Johnson

NVU Receives NBHWC Approval for Health Science – Health & Wellness Coaching Program

Graduates of NVU’s Health & Wellness Coaching program will be eligible to sit for the NBHWC Certification Exam to become a Certified Health & Wellness Coach. Read the entire article.

Plazek Joins Association of Canadian Studies

David J. Plazek, PhD, Professor of Political Science, was elected to the Executive Council of the Association of Canadian Studies in the United States in October for a three-year term. Plazek is Co-Chair of the Culture, History, and Political Science Department and Director of the Institute of Canadian Studies.

NVU Lyndon

NVU Honors the Memory of Hall of Famer Mark O’Brien

The Northern Vermont University-Lyndon community paid tribute to alumnus and athletic Hall of Famer Mark O’Brien ’89, who passed away in June of 2020. Mark was an outstanding basketball and baseball player at Lyndon. He was inducted into the Lyndon Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998.  Read the entire article.

Vermont Tech

VCBB begins partnership to fill worker shortages in conjunction with universal broadband

“Vermont Technical College is excited to work with the fiber industry in Vermont to provide apprenticeship training for this sector. We are working on developing all the elements of the program with the CUDs, VCBB and construction firms who are doing this work,” said Patricia Moulton, Vermont State Colleges Workforce Division Executive Director. Read the entire article.

Share your news!

Submit your story to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on social media.

Quote/Unquote

“As I was planning my F2F+ course for this semester, I wanted to ensure that all of my students felt as though they were a contributing member of the class. I chose to incorporate Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning activities and broke students up into small teams. I change the teams every five weeks. This helped to promote a sense of community and increased student engagement. An unintended benefit has been that students report being surprised by how quickly the class time passes, a difficult feat for a 75-minute, 8 a.m. class!”

-Shannon Newell, PhD, NCSP, Associate Professor of Psychological Science, School Psychology Graduate Program Coordinator, Castleton University

All University Update November 1, 2022

Greetings Vermont State University community,

I hope you had a safe and festive Halloween.

As we move into November, we find ourselves honoring our community in many ways. This month, we recognize First-Generation College Celebration Day on November 8, a time to celebrate the success of first-generation college students, faculty, staff, and alumni. We also commemorate Veterans Day on November 11 and Transgender Day of Awareness on November 20. All November long we observe Native American Heritage Month. And, of course, there is the Thanksgiving Holiday on November 24, a time for family and friends.

Each of our campus communities has events planned to mark these important occasions. See below my message for a list of First Generation Day activities being held across our campuses. Watch for emails with information on how you can participate.

I encourage you to engage in these important observances with our community. Share your story or listen to another’s story. Take time to read, watch, or listen to learn more. Join us at an event.

To those who we honor on these days, we see you and we are here for you.

Yours,
President Grewal

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First-Generation College Celebration Day – November 8

Castleton Campus:

Events will be held in the Campus Center Atrium from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. where cider and donuts will be served while sharing in writing and video, “it’s important to me to be FG, because…” Later, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., cider and donuts will be served in the Campus Center 1787 Room where there will be more sharing as well as live music and therapy dogs. All week long leading up to November 8, the Calvin Coolidge Library will display books by famous first-gen authors.

NVU-Johnson Campus:

Students and staff will table in Stearns Student Center where they will have TRIO items to distribute, a poster to fill out, and a button-maker for students to make their own buttons.

NVU-Lyndon Campus:

Faculty and staff will display signs on their office doors that say, “I’m 1st Gen, let’s talk!” Students are invited to write about what being first-gen means to them at a table in the Academic Support Center, where snacks will be served.

Vermont Tech Campus:

Faculty and staff will display signs indicating their first-gen status on their office doors. Student stories will be shared via video. A table of books by first-gen authors will be on display at the library.

Transformation Updates

Transformation updates can be found in the most recent Sway.

This issue includes the following:

  • Update on VTSU Staffing
  • Happy Diwali!
  • IT Shared Services Update: New Appointment Announcements and Answers to FAQs
  • Transformation Project Updates
  • Student Advisory Council October Meeting Summary
  • Vermont State Colleges in the News

Upcoming Vermont State University Events

Meetings* with President Grewal

*see calendar for Zoom details

  • STUDENT Meeting: Wednesday, November 16, 7 pm
  • STAFF Meeting: Monday, November 21, 12:15 pm
  • FACULTY Meeting: Monday, November 28, 12:15 pm

Town Hall Meetings

President Grewal invites all faculty, staff, and students to Town Hall meetings on:

Fall Admissions Open Houses

In the News

NVU-Johnson Basement Medicine Interview with President Grewal

Vermont Viewpoint Interview with VCS Chancellor Sophie Zdatny and VSC Board Representative Lynn Dickinson

From Our Campuses

Heidi Welch Honored with Music Department’s Distinguished Alumni Award

The Keene State College Music Department has bestowed its Distinguished Alumni Award for 2022-23 to Heidi J. Welch, Class of 1996, who serves as the Director of Music Education at Castleton State University in Castleton, Vermont. Read the entire article.

This is Our Home – Lyndon, Vermont

Professor Dan Daley is featured in this love letter to the greater Lyndon community by NVU-Lyndon alum Ben Frechette, now with WPTZ-TV. Daley was born and raised in Lyndon and was also a student here! Watch the entire feature.

Vermont Tech Engineers Gold for Charity and Their Profession

Vermont Tech engineering students retained their trophy at the annual Vermont Society of Engineers’ (VSE) golf tournament, held in September. Vermont Tech’s team bested other university engineering student teams in a scramble format, keeping the rotating trophy that goes to the winning institution each year and that Vermont Tech had reclaimed in 2021. The tournament is a student-scholarship fundraiser for the VSE, and most of the golfers were working engineers. For many years, the VSE has invited the three engineering academic institutions in Vermont to enter a student team.

Quote/Unquote

“Through my work in the F2F+ pilot, I’ve been able to see the benefits of using technology in a way that brings students together from different locations and allows them to engage in course material in a way that breaks down the barriers of where students are attending from.

I’ve also strengthened my course delivery through Canvas course templates and been able to allow for modality diversity in how students do work within the course which has allowed students to get more creative with how they tackle different tasks within the course.

Sure, it’s been a challenge and not everything has been perfect, but if this is a glimpse of how I might deploy this in other courses, I’m confident I can do so without feeling overwhelmed by it and know that I have the support of OIT, the Teaching and Learning Innovation team, and my peers who are also working through things in this environment as well.”

-Meaghan Meachem, Professor and Chair, Journalism and Communications, Northern Vermont University – Lyndon

Share Your News with Us!

Submit your story to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on social media. Submit your news on this form.

All University Update October 20, 2022

Greetings Vermont State University community,

I hope you had a wonderful fall break, and you are rejuvenated for the rest of the semester.

It’s great to see each of our campuses buzzing with activities. This month, we saw our first Vermont State University prospective students on our campuses at our open houses. I encourage you to help us spread the word to your friends, family, and community members to learn more about our campuses and their distinctions! We are hearing great news from the road. Our admissions team members are reporting a lot of excitement about Vermont State University from prospective students.

We are eager to hear your comments, questions, feedback, or ideas. Please let me know via this form and, if you have stories to share about interesting projects, research, or more, send them here!

Yours,
President Grewal

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Transformation Updates

Transformation updates can be found in the most recent Sway.

This issue includes the following:

  • Note on Newsletter Schedule
  • Transformation Update Presentation to Board of Trustees
  • Transformation Project Updates
  • Updates to Transformation Website
  • Vermont State Colleges in the News

Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Update

Staff may qualify for the limited Public Service Loan Forgiveness waiver opportunity and, in some cases, could see their entire federal educational loan balance forgiven. This limited waiver opportunity allows borrowers to receive credit for past periods of repayment (while working full-time for a qualifying employer) that typically would not qualify. You must take action by October 31, 2022. The action(s) needed depends on the types of loans the borrower has. You can get more information, including how to tell what types of loans you have and what actions you need to take online. VSAC is ready and available to provide guidance and counsel to staff. Staff may also submit their PSLF forms via an HR Help Desk ticket (accessible from the portal).

Upcoming Vermont State University Events

Town Hall Meetings

President Grewal invites all faculty, staff, and students to Town Hall meetings on:

Fall Admissions Open Houses

In the News

Caledonia-Record: Vermont State University President Visits Lyndon Campus

WCAX-TV: Vermont Technical College Recognized by U.S. Department of Energy

From Our Campuses

Connection Through Comics: Mat Heagerty, ’05

After graduating from Castleton in 2005 with an associate degree in Communication and Media Studies, Mat Heagerty pursued a life as a punk musician. Read the entire article.

NVU Students, Faculty Chase Storms in Tornado Alley

Earlier this summer, faculty, staff, and five students from Northern Vermont University-Lyndon resumed the opportunity of a lifetime to chase storms in tornado alley. Read the entire article.

Quote/Unquote

“In the few months since I accepted the position of Chief Diversity Officer, my favorite part of my work has been getting to build deeper connections with my colleagues on other campuses. There are so many amazing human beings working for our system! I can’t wait to continue collaborating with all of you to make Vermont State University a truly welcoming and inclusive learning and working environment!”

-Jae Basiliere, Chief Diversity Officer

Share Your News with Us!

Submit your story to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on social media. Submit your news on this form.

All University Update October 4, 2022

Greetings Vermont State University community,

Here we are—September already behind us, and October in front of us. My family and I are enjoying our first Vermont foliage season. It’s a treat to see each campus in its autumnal glory. I hope you are enjoying this special season, whether it’s your first or umpteenth.

In the month ahead, we will host our first Open Houses for Vermont State University. Our Admissions team has been hard at work to prepare, and I applaud them for their formidable efforts. They are also on the road meeting with prospective students at several hundred events.

Please also join me in welcoming four new people to Vermont State University leadership: Irene Irudayam will be serving as Assistant Vice President for Institutional Research and Planning and Chief Data Scientist. Bobbi Jo Carter will be serving as Director of Online Program Administration. Jennifer Garrett-Ostermiller will be serving as Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning. Sara Kinerson has been appointed to the role of Interim Assistant Vice President of Advising and Career Development. Congratulations to you all!

As always, if you have any comments, questions, feedback, or ideas, please contact me. I’m here to listen and learn from you all. We also have a wonderful and easy way to gather news and story ideas — click here to submit your news!

Yours,
President Grewal

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Transformation Updates

Transformation updates can be found in the most recent Sway.

This issue includes the following:

  • Vermont State University 2023-2024 Tuition Announced
  • Spotlight: Transforming the VSCS with Shared Services
  • VSCS Board of Trustees Expands In-State Tuition for Refugees at all VSCS Institutions
  • Update on Workforce Development Goals and Structure
  • Transformation Project Updates
  • Four New Leadership Appointments for Vermont State University
  • Human Resources and Employee Services Transformation
  • Vermont State Colleges in the News

Upcoming Vermont State University Events

Town Hall Meetings

President Grewal invites all faculty, staff, and students to Town Hall meetings on:

Meet the President

October 6, 5:30-7PM, Williston Campus, Vermont Tech 400 Building

Fall Admissions Open Houses

  • Castleton Campus: October 10
  • Williston Campus: October 17
  • Johnson Campus: October 22
  • Randolph Campus: October 29
  • Lyndon Campus: November 5
  • Castleton Campus: November 11
  • Learn more on the VTSU microsite

In the News

VTDigger: Vermont State University to cut tuition by 15% for in-state students

From Our Campuses

Mike Robilotto Honored by Red Sox Foundation

Castleton University Director of Residence Life Mike Robilotto was recognized for his volunteer work with Rutland County Little League at a pre-game ceremony on the field at Fenway Park as the Red Sox Foundation’s Mike Egan Volunteer of the Year from Vermont. Read the entire article.

Northern Vermont University Named a New England Center for Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases by CDC

Grant-funded regional collaboration is designed to reduce diseases spread by ticks and mosquitoes. Read the entire article.

WPTZ-TV: Vermont Tech’s Apprenticeship Program Sets an Example

GE a world leader in providing aircraft engines, systems and avionics, with a location in Rutland, Vermont, announces that its GE Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship Programs graduated 41 apprentices in toolmaking, electrical maintenance, and mechanical maintenance. Watch the entire story.

Quote/Unquote

“I’m excited to work together with my colleagues in Student Success – all of whom put students first every day—to  improve the student experience and expand student opportunities as we launch Vermont State. By integrating and coordinating programs and services to support students holistically, we will build the framework necessary to meet all students where they are and help them achieve their goals. Teamwork is a big motivator for me, and I am energized to join my colleagues in this important work!”

-Kelly Beckwith Director of Student Success

Share Your News with Us!

Submit your story to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on social media. Submit your news on this form.

All University Update September 26, 2022

Greetings Vermont State University community,

It is now officially fall, and while we mark a change of seasons, I want to also recognize that it’s been a year of changes for all of us, individually and collectively. For some of us, September marked the first year of the college experience, while for others turning the calendar over meant marking decades of teaching and supporting students. We are each on our own journey.

Yet, your personal journey is also intrinsic to our shared history, and more so, our shared future. The next few months will continue to be stressful and challenging. They will also bring moments of joy, success, unity, and friendship. I call upon you all to join me in building Vermont State University as the most innovative and forward-looking university in the world!

Over the past few months, I have had the opportunity to travel to all of our campuses and meet students, faculty, staff, and community members at listening sessions, campus community forums, convocations, and homecoming events. It’s great to be back together again after the long years of the pandemic. What is abundantly clear to me is how much you all care for your students, colleagues, institutions, and communities. It’s that passion and dedication that will help us through this next phase together.

If I haven’t met you yet, I invite you to join me at my upcoming Meet the President event on October 6. Or, you can email me with your questions and ideas. I want to hear what’s on your mind.

Yours,
President Grewal

Vermont State University Tuition Announced

The Vermont State Colleges Board of Trustees approved lowering tuition for new students at Vermont State University starting Fall 2023. We are also pleased to inform our current students that we will again freeze their tuition for the third year in a row. Additionally, current students can expect adjustments to their aid so their total net tuition will either stay the same or be lowered, depending on their current scholarship.

Read the full Press Release.

Transformation Updates

NECHE has formally approved Vermont State University accreditation contingent upon us providing the required progress reports, a normal part of the process. Thank you to the faculty, staff, and students for their extraordinary work on transformation projects over the past two years. NECHE has also recently concluded accreditation reviews of Castleton University and Vermont Technical College and determined the two institutions to be in good standing. NECHE has canceled the previously slated review of Northern Vermont University due to its planned consolidation into Vermont State University.

What’s next?

  • We now need to finalize our Gen Ed curriculum so that we can seek specific disciplinary accreditations for the successful launch of Vermont State University in Fall 2023.
  • We also need to continue to work collaboratively across campuses on various other critical projects including program arrays and faculty, staff, and student governance for Vermont State University.
  • Following the legislative and transformation expectations, we will be building Vermont State as a first statewide hybrid (In-Person Plus), community-engaged, and career ready university. You will be hearing more about these top priorities over the coming weeks and months.
  • We are making good progress on building the leadership team. Several leaders are already in place and they have begun their work and are already filling staff positions in their areas.

Click here to view the most recent full transformation update.

Listening Tour Report

A number of key themes emerged from President Grewal’s listening tour. In response to one of those key themes – a desire for clear and transparent communication – we share the President’s report on his tour.

Click here to read the listening tour key themes report.

Upcoming Vermont State University Events

President Grewal invites all faculty, staff, and students to Town Hall meetings on:

  • September: 26
  • October: 10, 17, 24
  • November: 7, 14
  • December: 5, 12
  • Time: 12:15-1 pm

Location: Zoom – https://vsc.zoom.us/j/88441214720

In the News

Barre-Montpelier Times-Argus/Rutland Herald: New student trustee loves Vermont, wants to remain.Perry Ragouzis, a junior at Castleton University, was appointed student trustee to the Vermont State College System Board of Trustees this summer. The Colorado native says he’s fallen in love with Vermont, and says he hopes to make it easier for people like him to stay and work in the Green Mountain State.

WCAX-TV: $4.5M in grants awarded to Northern Vermont University first-generation students. Hundreds of kids in Vermont have access to a higher education program that helps them prep for college and helps them financially.

WCAX-TV: Vermont State University hires new diversity officer. Anchor Darren Perron spoke with Jae Basiliere, PhD, about their new role at chief diversity officer at Vermont State University.

From Our Campuses

CASTLETON UNIVERSITY RECEIVES MCNAIR GRANT

The grant helps universities and colleges develop programs to prepare undergraduate students from a variety of historically underrepresented groups for doctoral study and also provides students opportunities to engage in paid summer research under faculty mentorship and other scholarly activities

NVU ALUMNI TAKE HOME 10 NEW ENGLAND NATAS EMMY AWARDS

Seven Northern Vermont University-Lyndon communications alums took home ten Emmy awards at the New England National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) 45th Boston/New England Emmy Awards ceremony on June 4, 2022.

VERMONT TECH AWARDED $1.2 MILLION BY U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

A $1.2 million grant to Vermont Technical College will help to expand the college’s agricultural workforce development and entrepreneurship training programs.

Quote/Unquote

“Hello from admissions! Working alongside colleagues through our transformation has been such a pleasure. Together, we are so excited about the year to come as we represent Vermont State University with the highest integrity and transparency in order that our prospective students understand who we are, the strengths we’re carrying forward, new opportunities we are creating, and the strong academic and co-curricular foundation we will provide for them and their very bright futures. Admissions representatives are actively attending over 750 events this fall season, as well as hosting a full array of campus visits, and we are all looking forward to welcoming applications to Vermont State’s inaugural class!”

–Emily Wiezalis, Director of Enrollment Communications, Admissions

Share Your News with Us!

Submit your story to be featured in an upcoming newsletter or on social media.

Landscape Student, Aiden Cudhea, Receives Merit Scholarship from Vermont Nursery & Landscape Association

Vermont Tech announces that Aiden Cudhea, a student studying Landscape Contracting, has received a merit scholarship from Vermont Nursery and Landscaping Association (VNLA).

“It is probably one of my greatest achievements to be recognized by an organization full of the top landscaping professionals in the state of Vermont,” said Cudhea. “I am glad that Vermont Tech has such a positive relationship with the organization, because it really benefits students entering the landscaping field.”

The faculty at Vermont Tech’s Landscape Contracting Program nominated Cudhea for the merit award, noting his dedication to his studies, perseverance, and a sincere plan to have a career in the green industry in Vermont. He recently completed an independent project in landscape construction that he tackled with passion and creativity. His positive attitude is an asset to all around him.

Cudhea chose Vermont Tech for its small class sizes and focus on hands-on learning. He says the diversity in class structures is something that plays to many learning styles.

Receiving this award was a pleasant surprise for Cudhea, and something that he sees himself taking with him as he enters the landscaping industry. As the recipient of this award, he also receives a one-year free membership from VNLA.

Cudhea spends a lot of time in the greenhouse on the Vermont Tech campus. He said that since many of the landscape contracting classes are heavily lab-oriented, having a resource like a greenhouse connected to a classroom is an ideal scenario.

Cudhea also spends a lot of time in the landscaping drafting studio, where all the landscape design classes take place. “It’s not only a place where landscape contracting majors learn to create landscape design plans, but it also serves as a place to present some of our work to other faculty members as well as professionals from the landscaping industry,” he said.

Upon graduation, Cudhea hopes to help people in the community and create beautiful landscapes wherever he lands.

Landscape Contracting program at Vermont Tech

The Landscape Contracting program at Vermont Tech prepares students for a wide range of careers in the green industry. Students gain technical, business, creative, and scientific skills necessary to grow a variety of plant crops and to design and manage landscapes that enhance the environment and the daily lives of those who use them.

Specifically, students learn to create comprehensive and holistic landscapes by integrating fundamental design principles and cultural and aesthetic knowledge of ornamental plants and the natural systems that support them. Students also gain technical skills in materials and methods of construction; site engineering, such as grading and drainage; greenhouse and nursery environmental systems; integrated pest management; and the use of appropriate computer applications. Students become fluent in design practices such as analyzing a site for the best design fit, taking site measurements and creating base maps, developing conceptual design ideas, and creating planting plans and master plans for real-world residential and community projects.  Students develop a wide range of horticultural skills, including identifying and propagating woody and herbaceous ornamental plants, diagnosing and creating preventive plans for insect and disease problems, and managing nutrients and water for plant crops.
Learn more about the Landscape Contracting program at Vermont Tech. We also offer a scholarship fund for Landscaping students titled the Randolph Garden Club Scholarship.

The Vermont Nursery & Landscape Association / Green Works, established in 1964, is a non-profit professional organization for the horticultural industry in Vermont. Members include growers, retailers, garden centers and nurseries; landscape architects, designers and contractors; arborists, turf specialists, industry representatives, allied trades people, students and educators. The VNLA’s mission is to support and strengthen the horticulture industry of Vermont through programming and certification as well as create greater awareness of the benefits of landscaping and the professional services and products our members offer to the buying public. For more information, visit: vnlavt.org

Class of 2021 Achieves 99% Placement Rate

Vermont Technical College’s graduating class of 2021 achieved a 99% placement rate, reflecting that they are either employed or enrolled in continuing education programs after completing their certificate or degree. Since 2014, Vermont Technical College has had an average placement rate of more than 97%. As in years past, 98% of Vermont Technical College’s graduates in the class of 2021 are working in their field of study.

Coupled with the best return on investment of any higher education institution in Vermont according to a new study from Georgetown University, Vermont Technical College’s pillar remains its support of the State of Vermont’s workforce needs.

“This achievement affirms that our programs, and graduates, are in high demand,” said Karry Booska, director of Career Development at Vermont Tech. Vermont Technical College’s annual placement rate is calculated by a six-month outcome survey conducted by the college’s Office of Career Development.

The majority of survey respondents reported employment or continuing education in nursing and health professions, followed by engineering and computing, professional studies and management, and agricultural, plant, and life sciences.

“To the class of 2021, who persevered in the face of phenomenal challenges, we are so very proud of you, congratulations” said Patricia Moulton, president at Vermont Technical College. “We are so pleased to see you already changing the world in such a positive way.”

All College Update February 18, 2022

We’re #1 AND #7!

EXCITING NEWS! A new Georgetown University report found that Vermont Tech ranked #1 in Vermont and #7 nationally among four-year public universities with the best return-on-investment! This means after you graduate, you will earn back your Vermont Tech tuition investment sooner than graduates from any other higher education institution in Vermont and all but 6 public higher education institutions in the country! You are wise to be here! Tell your friends and siblings to come obtain the same advantage! Learn more on our news page.

Unification Update

Transformation updates are released every two weeks and past updates are available on the VSCS’s transformation website, along with other resources.

Campus Life

World-Renowned Expert in Design for Additive Manufacturing Joins Vermont Tech

Andreas Vlahinos, PhD, CTO of Advanced Engineering Solutions, joins Vermont Tech as Visiting Professor. Vlahinos is a world-renowned expert in design for additive manufacturing, computer-aided innovation, and generative design who has worked with companies including SpaceX, General Dynamics, and TetraPak. Read more in our press release.

New Vermont Chapter for Women in Aviation Launches

In partnership with Beta Technologies and the Vermont Flight Academy, VTC has launched the first Vermont chapter of Women in Aviation, open to all people interested in the range of careers available in the field of aviation. To learn more, contact Robin Guillian, Director of Aviation for VTC’s Professional Pilot Program.

2022 is the Year of the Nurse Educator!

The National League for Nursing declared 2022 the Year of the Nurse Educator. We salute our nurse educators for the contributions they make to our community and to inspiring the next generation of nurses. Behind every great nurse is a great nurse educator!

Who’s New at Vermont Tech?

Please join me in welcoming these new employees to the Vermont Tech family.

Welcome to our new staff members!

  • Shelby Day – Coordinator of Advising and Retention

Welcome to our new faculty members!

  • Sarah Mutar – Nursing

All College Update November 16, 2021

Heading into the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to express my gratitude for ALL of you. As we have weathered significant change, both globally and locally here at our Vermont Tech community, you continue to rise to every challenge. As you know, it takes ALL of us to effectively operate this college, we are all vital. I thank you for all you do.  Wishing you all a safe and restful holiday!

Covid-19 Update

Questions About Covid Safety or Vaccinations?

  • If you are a student and have questions, contact Student Affairs at studentaffairs@vtc.edu.
  • If you are an employee (staff or faculty) and have questions, contact Kelly Rue Riso, Director of Human Resources, at kriso@vtc.edu.

Boosters are here!

We strongly encourage students, staff, and faculty to get boosters when you are eligible to protect yourself and our community. Living or working on campus is considered a high-risk setting. That means that you are eligible to receive a booster.

For more guidance—including where to access boosters—visit the Vermont Department of Health. Booster shots are available here on our Randolph Center Campus every Tuesday morning in Judd as well as sites across the state. Sign up and use code BOOSTER.

Thank you for doing your part to keep us all healthy!

Nursing Press Conference

On Wednesday, November 10, we co-hosted a press conference with NVU-Lyndon to announce a federal grant to expand nursing education in the Northeast Kingdom.

The federal funding expands our in-demand, existing nursing program on the NVU-Lyndon campus, creating a direct pathway for students to complete their degree from start to finish on the Lyndon campus.

The press heard from Sen. Patrick Leahy, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Peter Welch, NVU Interim President John W. Mills, NVRH CEO Shawn Tester — and President Pat Moulton.

You can see the coverage of this exciting news by clicking on any of the links that follow:

Policies & Procedures

Vermont Tech is committed to creating policies consistent with the mission of the college and to support our NECHE Accreditation. Policy development and implementation has been a continuous and evolutionary process. The President’s office, with the support of the marketing department updated and organized all policies and procedures on the website by category to ease the search process and accessibility for the college community. The categories include: Academic Affairs, Personnel, Student Affairs, Business/Financial, and General.

Vermont Tech leadership and their accompanying departments began reviewing all policies and procedures in July of 2021 per VTC policy T708 (policy on policies). In addition, a video was created explaining the process and how to find the policies and procedures on the website.

Unification Update

Thank you for your continued contribution to the unification process. For the latest transformation update, click here.

Campus Life

Honoring Brenda Churchill Flint

On Friday, November 5, we hosted the inaugural Brenda Churchill Flint Fun Run 5K/8K in partnership with the Randolph Union High School Cross Country Team. Coming together to remember Brenda, we raised more than $6,500 for the scholarship fund named in her honor.

Click here to make a donation to the Brenda Churchill Flint Scholarship Fund.

Engineering Students Place First in Golf Tournament

A team of Vermont Tech engineering students placed first at the annual Vermont Society of Engineers’ (VSE) golf tournament, held in Stowe, Vermont, at the end of September.

The Green Knight team, comprising Quinn Munns (of Jericho, VT), Thomas Ferguson (of Deering, NH), Ronnie Corey (of South Burlington, VT), and Michael Ranaldo (of Burlington, VT), reclaimed the rotating trophy that goes to the winning institution each year. The tournament is a fundraiser for the VSE; the funds raised go toward student scholarships.

New OTT Sports Channel

Our new Vermont Tech OTT channel allows you to access games and other sports programming for FREE on your AndroidTV, AppleTV, FireTV, Roku, and other similar apps.

To access Vermont Tech’s OTT channel, search “Vermont Tech” on your streaming service.

Knights in the Know

I sincerely believe in continuous improvement. I also believe that every member of our team has something to contribute to make us a better organization. As a reminder, please know that the college has an electronic “suggestion box” to share ideas with me and the administration about areas of improvement or recognition. It’s also a reminder for everyone to keep sending me your thoughts and ideas.

Have a faculty member you think deserves kudos for the experiential learning project she embedded in your class? Have you thought of a more efficient process we should implement for cost savings? Do you see a way to improve safety on your campus? Want to nominate a student, faculty or staff member to be profiled as an excellent example of Vermont Tech-ness on our website? Use this suggestion box for these ideas and more.

This form is in addition to the college’s Care & Concern form (to report any student safety issues).

Who’s New at Vermont Tech?

Please join me in welcoming these new employees to the Vermont Tech family.

Welcome to our new staff members!

  • Chassidy King – Assistant Program Coordinator/Electrical & Plumbing Apprenticeship Program (switched from the OC)
  • Anne Black Cone – Assistant to the Academic Dean
  • Rachel Smith – Assistant Director of Admissions/Transfer Coordinator (Switched from Admissions Assistant)
  • Kelly Dixon – Nursing Site Director, Southeast Region

Warm wishes on a healthy and happy Thanksgiving holiday.

Opening for Fall 2021

August 11, 2021

Effective Friday, August 13 all faculty, staff, students, and visitors are required to wear a mask when indoors on campus at any Vermont Tech location.

This is in accordance with the CDC’s latest recommendations. This decision follows our recent announcement to mandate a COVID-19 vaccine of all enrolled students.

The latest research on the Delta variant shows that even a high vaccination level is probably not enough, by itself, to prevent significant infections on college campuses. As such, each of us donning a mask embodies the Vermont Tech’s values because it strengthens our ability to hold in-person classes and activities and it protects our friends who may be immunocompromised or have unvaccinated children at home.

The new Delta variant has the potential to infect people with the vaccine. The good news is that those who are vaccinated are much less likely to have severe symptoms, so the vaccine is working. But it is spreading more with this new variant. The CDC has recommended masks be worn indoors even by people who are vaccinated in high risk counties. A majority of the counties in Vermont have become high risk. To help mitigate the risk, the VSC system has implemented the mask mandate on all campuses.

No mask is required if working alone, such as in your office, or for on-campus residents when in their room alone or with their roommates. Everyone should have a mask ready for when conditions warrant their use.

July 30, 2021

Vermont Technical College now requires COVID-19 vaccination for all students enrolled during the 2021-2022 Academic Year. To be in full compliance a student must complete one of the following options before 8:00 am on August 23, 2021:

  • Submit a copy of their completed COVID-19 vaccination record. Please review the vaccination information to submit your vaccine; OR
  • Submit a request for exemption (only documented medical conditions or strict religious beliefs qualify for exemptions). Anyone on campus who is not vaccinated is expected to wear a mask indoors and to social distance (6 feet apart) from others, OR
  • Submit a copy of their vaccination record confirming the first COVID-19 vaccine was administered prior to August 23, 2021, indicate the scheduled date of the second shot (if applicable), and their agreement to complete the full vaccine protocol, OR
  • Submit a signed written statement (include name and Vermont Technical College ID number) to studentaffairs@vtc.edu stating they will not come on to the physical campus for any reason during the 2021-2022 academic year due to their taking classes exclusively online.

The goal is to maximize the number of vaccinated individuals for the safety of the entire Vermont Technical College community. Failure to be in compliance by August 23, 2021 will jeopardize the student’s ability to be present on campus for any reason. Please review information on vaccine availability in Vermont or in your home state.

July 22, 2021

Today, Chancellor Zdatny shared news from the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees:

The Executive Committee of the Vermont State Colleges System Board of Trustees voted this afternoon to require COVID-19 vaccination for all students enrolled in the 2021-2022 Academic Year. The safety of our students, employees, and local community members is our top priority as we continue to respond to the ongoing pandemic.

Our goal remains for all members of the VSCS community who are able to be vaccinated to get vaccinated. We urge you to make every effort to complete your vaccination as soon as possible. Requests for medical and religious exemptions will be considered in accordance with Vermont law. Today’s decision by the Executive Committee does not apply to students who will not come on to the physical campuses for any reason during the 2021-2022 academic year, such as those who are taking classes exclusively online.

Any necessary updated guidance will be distributed to you shortly on how to report your vaccination status and we look forward to welcoming you back to classes next month.

If you should have any questions in the meantime, please reach out to your Dean of Students.

The resolution is posted on the VSC website.

Summer 2021

Because of our community’s tremendous effort and sacrifice, we are increasingly confident in providing a campus and academic experience that is much closer to our traditional operations. While we don’t yet have all of the details, we eagerly anticipate a much-improved public health situation and a significant reduction in state mandates and restrictions this fall.

We strongly encourage everyone – students, alumni, staff and faculty – to get vaccinated. As a reminder, we will mandate the vaccine for enrolled students once vaccines are approved for permanent approval by the FDA. This will be in addition to the other vaccines currently required by the Vermont Department of Health. Once the COVID-19 vaccine is required, requests for medical and religious exemptions will be considered, in accordance with Vermont law.

March 1, 2020

After more than a year of modified instruction and limited campus housing, President Patricia Moulton has announced the college’s intention to return to full in-person academic schedules for the fall of 2021. To serve the needs of students by providing our uniquely applied educational format, the college will reinstate a full contingent of in-person classes and labs in the fall. Many clinical experiences have continued throughout the pandemic for our health majors, and will also be offered in-person in the fall.

“I have been very impressed by our college community’s ability this past year to adapt and pivot to meet the guidelines of the State, the CDC and the Vermont Department of Health while meeting the educational needs of our students,” says President Moulton. “I am looking forward, however, to returning to a sense of normalcy and togetherness as we set our sights on reopening fall 2021.”

As of this writing, the academic calendar for fall 2021 will not be modified to condense the schedule for the purpose of returning students to their home communities after the Thanksgiving break. Remote learning will not be the dominant delivery format for all courses. The college’s portfolio of online and hybrid courses will be available as they were pre-pandemic.  Residential housing will continue to be offered on both the Randolph Center and Williston campuses for fall 2021.

This plan will continue to be based on the shared responsibility of our entire community to adhere to any remaining safety measures and follow protocols during the coming academic year. We can likely expect that we will continue to wear masks and practice forms of social distancing into 2022. However, the trends in cases and vaccinations has led us the conclusion that our fall reopening plans are viable to return us to our campuses, classrooms and in-person labs.

More details about housing options and the academic calendar will be rolled out during the spring semester. Departments and offices will work to formalize details in the coming months.

 

Update on the COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 Notification

We were notified that an employee on the Williston Campus has a confirmed positive cases of COVID-19. With this confirmation, college staff have notified all employees who came into close contact with the employee to quarantine (PDF) and monitor themselves for symptoms.

If any additional employees are deemed a close contact, college staff will be in contact to discuss next steps and guidance. We are in contact with the Vermont Department of Health (VDOH) and are taking necessary steps to protect the health of our students and staff.

Employees who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated are encouraged to wear a mask when indoors and when social distancing isn’t possible or if you  are more comfortable doing so. Employees need to monitor themselves daily for symptoms, and should stay home if you are unwell or have a fever, regardless of vaccination status. Symptoms include: fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell.

If you haven’t yet received your COVID-19 vaccine and would like one, you can register for an appointment or find upcoming walk-in clinics.

Summer 2021

Because of our community’s tremendous effort and sacrifice, we are increasingly confident in providing a campus and academic experience that is much closer to our traditional operations. While we don’t yet have all of the details, we eagerly anticipate a much-improved public health situation and a significant reduction in state mandates and restrictions this fall.

We strongly encourage everyone – students, alumni, staff and faculty – to get vaccinated. As a reminder, we will mandate the vaccine for enrolled students once vaccines are approved for permanent approval by the FDA. This will be in addition to the other vaccines currently required by the Vermont Department of Health. Once the COVID-19 vaccine is required, requests for medical and religious exemptions will be considered, in accordance with Vermont law.

Vermont State Colleges Students Eligible for New Scholarships

Today, the Vermont State Colleges System Board Chair, Chancellor, and Presidents held a press conference to announce the new legislation that creates several scholarship programs for Vermonters. Thanks to the Legislature and Governor, Vermont is funding several incredible opportunities for high school graduates and adult learners at the Vermont State Colleges this year. We are grateful, especially to the Legislature, for their prioritization of higher and continuing education and workforce development in their strategy for allocation of the federal American Rescue Plan Act funds.

These scholarships total a $15 million investment in Vermont students. This helps address the affordability of public higher education. We are thrilled that our students are reaping the rewards of this tremendous opportunity this year.

The new scholarship initiatives are

  • Welcome Home / Transfer Scholarship – for Vermonters who were attending an out-of-state college or who exited a VSC institution in 2020-2021.
    • This scholarship award is up to $5,000 for full-time students and $3,000 for part-time students per year to cover tuition, room and board, and fees.
  • Degree Completion Scholarship – for Vermonters who have earned at least 40 college credits and have a gap in their education of at least two years.
    • This scholarship is a ‘last-dollar’ scholarship, meaning it covers any remaining balance after all state and federal gift aid is applied.
  • Free Tuition Scholarship – for students entering or returning to programs identified as ‘Critical Occupations’ in the legislation, including healthcare programs and the McClure Best Bet programs.
    • This scholarship is a ‘last-dollar’ scholarship, meaning it covers any remaining balance after all state and federal gift aid is applied.
    • July 16, 2021: Due to response volume paired with limited State funding, this program’s awarding is paused at Vermont Tech, Castleton University, and Northern Vermont University, with the exception of our Paramedicine Program. Students admitted prior to this date are being awarded existing funds. Your continued interest is encouraged, while we work to secure additional funding. Please stay tuned. Scholarship programs above and the VSAC scholarships are unaffected by this pause.

VSAC also joined the press conference to present their state-funded initiative that also apply to students interested in taking a course tuition-free at one of the Vermont State Colleges System institutions: Green Mountain Grad and 802 Opportunity Grant. These programs are both provided by VSAC.

The press conference streaming archive is available on the VSC YouTube channel.