Vermont Business Magazine Wednesday evening the Vermont State Colleges congratulated its first alumni Hall of Fame class and raised over $107,000 for student scholarships. The event drew over 300 to Montpelier’s Capital Plaza Hotel, where six people were inducted into the new Vermont State Colleges’ Hall of Fame. Governor Jim Douglas emceed. College presidents introduced their alumni awardees and Governor Shumlin gave the Award for Distinguished Service to Governor Phil Hoff. His daughter, Dagney Hoff, accepted the award and spoke on behalf of her father.
“The outpouring of support for the Vermont State Colleges and our students exceeded our expectations. We are very grateful for the recognition of the critical role the VSC plays in the state’s economy and in opening doors of opportunity for Vermonters,” said VSC Chancellor Jeb Spaulding.
2016 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees are:
John and Sue Casella, Castleton University Classes of 1972 and 1975
The Casellas are active community members and steadfast supporters of Castleton University. John co-founded Casella Waste Systems, one of Vermont’s top ten businesses and is a national leader in resource recovery. Sue was a highly-praised elementary school teacher.
Catriona McHardy, Community College of Vermont, Class of 1978
Catriona McHardy has committed her life to improving access to health care for women. She was Vice President for Education and Training at Planned Parenthood, providing training in the U.S., Africa and Russia. She serves on the faculty at CCV and in the community as an advocate for women.
Don Vickers, Johnson State College, Class of 1970
Don Vickers has improved access to higher education for Vermonters over his lifetime of work. As the President and CEO of the Vermont Student Assistant Corporation, he created the nation’s first grant program for non-degree-seeking students to boost employability and college-readiness, among many accomplishments. He serves his alma mater as a member of the President’s Fundraising Council.
Jim Cantore, Lyndon State College, Class of 1986
Jim Cantore is one of the most well-known and well-respected meteorologists on television. He has been with the Weather Channel for 30 years, winning national recognition. Jim returns to Lyndon annually to work with atmospheric sciences students and has established a scholarship fund at the college.
Michael Audet, Vermont Technical College, Class of 1972
Mike Audet has had a long career in agriculture and service to the state of Vermont. A dairy farmer and agricultural industry advocate, Mike runs Ledge Haven Farm in Orwell with his brother. His service to his town and state is extensive, including a term as President of the VSC Board of Trustees. Mike remains a supporter and advisor to Vermont Tech.
2016 VSC Board of Trustee’s Award for Distinguished Service went to:
Governor Philip H. Hoff
Governor Hoff’s impact on education in Vermont has been far-reaching. He was instrumental in the creation of the Vermont State Colleges corporation in 1965. He was also influential in the establishment of the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation. Both entities have made a college education possible for generations of Vermont students.
For more information about the VSC Hall of Fame inductees or the VSC Foundation, visit www.vsc.edu.