HARDWICK – I began my college education at Castleton University. I was privileged to experience campus life prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which effectively ended my freshman year.
In September of 2021, the board of trustees voted to create a single institution, merging our campus with Northern Vermont University and Vermont Technical College.
For a multitude of reasons, the decision to consolidate was received negatively by the student population across the state. Protests followed, as did questions. How would this merger affect the structure of our university? How would campus life, activities, and associations be impacted?
As new administrators entered the seemingly revolving door, the answers to our questions shifted with the leadership. The word “interim” haunted us, semester after semester. Despite the administration’s assurances, years of uncertainty and leadership changes have followed.
The most frustrating consequence of the merger has been the lack of transparency. Oftentimes, the administration seems to embody an “ask for forgiveness, not for permission” attitude that leaves both students and staff in the lurch.
In my junior year, the air of uncertainty on campus eventually shifted to anger. I attribute that to President Parwinder Grewal’s immensely unpopular (and ultimately unsuccessful) decision to close physical libraries. The infamous email casually announced the closure of physical libraries across Vermont State University (VTSU) campuses and eliminated library staff positions.
The plan also proposed downgrading sports programs.
Students were not notified prior to the public email, but more importantly, neither was the library staff, whose livelihoods depended on their employment.
The disregard for both students and staff ignited a sense of fury across campus.
That anger was further reflected in the vote of “no confidence” from faculty and staff unions and student government associations. The recurring pattern of poorly-received choices, followed by resignations, have left students to conclude that the administration doesn’t care.
Former President Grewal’s resignation came as no surprise. But, how many people were behind this decision? Who else authored this plan, and who approved it?
As a student, it’s disheartening to know the administration thought it was appropriate to end the careers of our dedicated library staff via email. How can we trust those individuals to make decisions for the student body, after they so blatantly show their disregard for our input?
I can only imagine how this constant stream of bad publicity has impacted prospective students and enrollment.
Ultimately, the high turnover in leadership at VTSU has left many students feeling uncertain and frustrated.
The administration has not inquired about, or even acknowledged the impacts on the student body of what has become a constant cycle of changing leadership and plans.
None of the administration’s messaging has disguised that it’s all about cutting expenses; at what cost to the student experience?
At a time when we are supposed to be focused on our academics, students have had to endure additional stresses. Questions remain unanswered. The benefits of merging remain unseen to many.
Although much has changed for the VTSU staff and students, one thing remains constant: The word “interim” has regained its mantle in the president’s office, and the revolving door is still spinning.
Raymonda Parchment
