Montpelier, VT –Vermont State University (VTSU) has conferred the title of President Emeritus upon David Wolk, honoring his lifelong service to Vermont and his extraordinary leadership in furthering public higher education across the state and for the countless Vermonters whose lives were influenced by his mentorship or who today are touched by the lasting contributions of his legacy. The title of President Emeritus is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and leadership.
“President Wolk’s impact on Vermont State University’s Castleton campus and his lasting contributions to the entire Vermont State Colleges System are immeasurable,” said Vermont State Colleges Board Chair, Lynn Dickenson. “His legacy reflects his vision, optimism, and commitment to higher education. There is an entire generation of students that David has inspired to prioritize community, connection, and empathy through ‘the Castleton Way,’ an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire students, faculty, and staff across the Vermont State Colleges system for generations to come.”
“David’s impact on Castleton and Vermont higher education has been profound,” added Vermont State University President Dave Bergh. “His dedication to students and his ability to build community have shaped the culture of our institution in ways that endure, and I know he will continue to support VTSU and its critical mission and role in our state moving forward.”
Mr. Wolk served as president of Castleton University (formerly Castleton State College) from 2001 to 2017 and is the longest-serving president in the institution’s history. During his tenure, transformative growth in academics, student life, and athletics occurred, including the institution’s transition to university status in 2015. Under his leadership, the university invested significantly in facilities, including construction of Jeffords Hall, multiple residence halls, and the Castleton Pavilion.
“Dave was a terrific colleague,” said Community College of Vermont President Joyce Judy. “As President of Castleton, he was an early believer in the importance of pathways for students from CCV to Castleton. This work opened the door of opportunity for countless students who never believed that they could earn a bachelor’s degree. Dave’s gracious and caring spirit is truly inspiring.”
Beyond significant campus improvements, Mr. Wolk championed initiatives that both strengthened community engagement and elevated Castleton’s profile statewide and nationally. Academic programs, including the university’s graduate programs like the Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) and the Master’s in Athletic Leadership, expanded under Mr. Wolk’s leadership and continue to be both a strong enrollment draw to VTSU and a critical educational offering to Vermont employers and communities. His vision fostered a vibrant campus culture including the establishment of the “Castleton Way,” a guiding principle of respect and integrity that continues to shape the VTSU community.
“I am thrilled to receive this distinction from Vermont State University. I’ve spent 51 years in education, of which the 16 years I spent at Castleton were an absolute highlight,” said President Emeritus David Wolk. “I am so very grateful for my time at Castleton – though I’m sure I gleaned more from my campus experience than I gave – and grateful to VTSU and the VSC Board of Trustees for this incredible honor, it means the world to me and will mean the world to my family as well. Thank you.”
A lifelong Vermonter, Mr. Wolk’s contributions extend far beyond the Castleton community. His distinguished career includes roles as Vermont’s Commissioner of Education, superintendent of schools, and elected public service in the Vermont State Senate. Since retiring, he has remained deeply engaged through Wolk Leadership Solutions, volunteer work, and public service, including his current role as Rutland County Assistant Judge.