A world-renowned fighting force and a small Vermont Catholic liberal arts college might seem at first to have little in common, but Marine General Joseph Dunford ’77 proudly and fondly identifies with both.

The Defense Department has announced that President Obama is nominating Dunford – currently the commander of American and allied forces in Afghanistan -- to lead the Marine Corps as commandant. If confirmed by the Senate Dunford would succeed retiring General James F. Amos as the Marine Corps’ top officer and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Mercy Connections has announced the addition of a talented and passionate professional to their team. Anne Lezak joins Mercy Connections as their Director of Education and Transition Programs. She has been a volunteer tutor in their Education and Transition programs and is delighted to join the staff, “I am so fortunate to join the talented Mercy Connections team. Working within Mercy Connections’ culture of hope, community and learning inspires both the people who walk through our door and those of us supporting them in realizing their potential and reaching their goals.”