"To all I would like to say it is never too late to learn, and just because we are reaching the end of this road doesn't mean your education has ended, it has just begun."
Theodore Donnell Applied Business Management
"I raised my two amazing boys for the past twenty years and decided to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming an RN. Returning after so many years has been very challenging and I am honored to wear this cord to acknowledge that."
Tessa Krygier Nursing
"Balancing coursework, running a business, and raising my children has required persistence and sacrifice, but it has also strengthened my confidence and purpose."
Stacey Grau Early Childhood Education
"I have built lifelong friendships and am so proud to be part of this university and this program that brings nursing to the forefront of careers and recognizes our accomplishments, whether we are non-traditional students like me or those right out of high school, all striving for the same success."
Shannon Burk Nursing
"If I had to leave any advice, it would be: Don't be afraid to fail, but always trust your gut. If you don't believe you're ready, take a step back and reassess!"
Samuel Recinos Atmospheric Science
" The encouragement, understanding, and flexibility offered to me gave me strength during moments of doubt. This path has been challenging and transformative and shaped me into a stronger, and more compassionate person, qualities that I carry with me as I continue my journey in nursing."
Raluca Cristea Nursing
"I chose nursing because I wanted to turn empathy into action and care for others with the same selflessness that was shown to me. This achievement is not mine alone. It is a reflection of sacrifice, perseverance, and purpose"
Lindsey Wright Nursing
"I am deeply grateful to my instructors, advisers, professors, classmates, and the entire CCV/VTSU community for their guidance and support. I also thank the state of Vermont and the United States for giving me this life‑changing opportunity."
Linda Bassey Psychology
"The best advice I can give someone is never give up, life is hard, giving up leads to failure and you can accomplish anything you put your mind to."
Leah Machia Graphic Design
"I love learning new things and look forward to completing my interdisciplinary degree in the near future. If I can get there, so can anyone else that chooses to!"
Jennifer Cobb Interdisciplinary Studies
" Earning my degree means growth, strength, and creating a better future for my family. It shows me that I am capable, and it reminds my children that they can accomplish anything they believe in, too."
Jaclyn Schoonmaker Early Childhood Education
"I realized it was time to start thinking about a change for my life, and my career, so I decided to pursue this degree and see where it leads me. There are so many possibilities! "
Elizabeth Bergman Holistic Health
"This was difficult as well but found an accepting and rewarding experience here with Vermont State. I am proud to have worked this hard to achieve this goal and feel really validated that I had the courage and ethic to do it while working a 40-hour week!"
Dylan Lumbra Psychology
"Earning my degree has strengthened my skills, expanded my career opportunities, and even influenced my daughter, who is now in college following her own dreams."
Cassandra Kennison Psychology
"This whole program has been one of the most challenging things in my life, balancing the course load with a full time job, and all the other responsibilities that come with being an adult is really something to be proud of!"
Benjamin Auger Elctrical Engineering Technology