VermontBiz On May 21, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce celebrated Major General Gregory Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, as the 2025 Citizen of the Year at an event in his honor. Colleagues, friends, and family members gathered at the historic von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort to recognize Major General Knight’s outstanding contributions to Vermont.
Photo: Major General Gregory Knight accepts the 2025 Citizen of the Year award. Courtesy photos.
The Citizen of the Year award is presented annually by the Vermont Chamber to an individual who has made significant contributions to the betterment of Vermont, distinguished through exceptional service to their community and region, and epitomizes the true spirit of service and self-sacrifice that defines Vermont citizenship. Major General Knight has exemplified these qualities through his proactive leadership, workforce development initiatives, and dedication to ensuring every soldier and airman feels valued.
“When I look around Vermont in my role as the Adjutant General, I realize Vermont is a very special place. We need more believers in Vermont, and we need to bring more believers— and their talent and experience— here,” said Major General Knight. “I am convinced more than ever of two things: the excellence of our people and the importance of relationships.”
Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, also shared her thoughts on the occasion, saying, “Those who know General Knight speak of his humility, his accessibility, and his unwavering care for the people he serves— whether they wear the uniform or not. His leadership is rooted in humanity, and it has left an indelible mark not just on the Vermont Guard, but on our entire state.”
Remarks celebrating General Knight were delivered by Kristina von Trapp Frame, von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, Greg Maguire, Liquid Measurement Systems, Brigadier General Hank Harder, Deputy Adjutant General of the National Guard Association of Vermont, and the Vermont National Guard and Veterans Affairs Legislative Caucus.
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has been honoring outstanding Vermonters with the Citizen of the Year award since 1964. Previous recipients include Tom Dee, Senator Patrick Leahy, Barbara Snelling, Antonio Pomerleau, and Ken Squier. This year’s celebration was a testament to Major General Knight’s remarkable contributions and his enduring legacy in Vermont. This event was supported by these generous sponsors: von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort, Casella, Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation, Farrell Distributing, the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development and the Vermont Department of Labor.
About Major General Knight
Major General Gregory Knight has dedicated over four decades of service to his country and the State of Vermont, exemplifying a lifetime of leadership, integrity, and commitment to others. His distinguished career spans service in the U.S. Coast Guard, the Burlington Police Department, the Department of Liquor Control, and both the Vermont Army and Air National Guard. A combat veteran deployed to Iraq, MG Knight has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. In 2019, he was elected by the Vermont Legislature to serve as the state’s Adjutant General—a position he continues to hold with distinction. In this role, he has guided the Guard through major natural disasters, supported pandemic response efforts, and led with compassion and resolve, always advocating for the well-being and recognition of the soldiers and airmen under his command.
Beyond his military accomplishments, MG Knight has prioritized building strong community connections and creating a welcoming, inclusive culture within the Vermont National Guard. His focus on workforce development, global partnerships through the State Partnership Program, and recruiting and retaining top talent reflects his forward-thinking leadership. As Vice President – Army of the Adjutants General Association of the United States, he balances national responsibilities while remaining deeply rooted in Vermont, frequently engaging with local organizations, veterans, and community events across the state. A resident of Huntington, Major General Knight is a visible and active leader whose presence and impact are felt throughout Vermont.
About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state. As the preeminent not-for-profit business organization, we advocate, build community, and provide resources for businesses statewide.
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