Spring is one of the busiest times on the Castleton University campus. In March, we usually come together for the Theater Department’s musical. In late April, we appreciate student work at the annual Scholars Celebration and we prepare for Commencement. In May, the big white tent goes up just outside of the Castleton Pavilion, and our Facilities Crew is hard at work to make our campus look beautiful after a long winter. Under normal circumstances this is my favorite time of year, when the excitement and anticipation of what’s to come are palpable. But this year is different. This past March, we decided to transition to the online delivery of courses to ensure the safety of our students due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Within a matter of days, students were asked to leave the residence halls and say goodbye to their friends. While we initially hoped to be able to return to campus and resume in-person learning in mid-April, it soon became clear that this was not a viable option. While all of this was happening, we had to make the difficult decision to postpone our Commencement to next spring. Commencement is the highlight of the academic year for our seniors, and we knew this decision would be disappointing for everyone – but especially for them, who saw their senior year upended and transformed before their eyes. We miss all of our students, but the senior class especially tugs at my heartstrings. As sophomores, they welcomed me to Castleton University with open arms, and we have grown here, together. We are all sad that we cannot be together in person to recognize their accomplishments and contributions to our community. To the Class of 2020: We often tell students to make a difference here before they go out and make a difference in the world. You have done just that. Every aspect of life at Castleton that you have touched – from academics to athletics, student life, and more – is better as a result of your time and dedication. You were instrumental in getting free skiing and riding at Pico Resort, expanding recreational opportunities for our students. You have helped grow our Club Sports from five to more than 20 offerings and led the unprecedented expansion of our on-campus clubs and activities, like the Active Minds Club. You helped guide your team to athletics championships. You’ve conducted innovative research across the globe, studied abroad, and helped those who are struggling in underdeveloped parts of the world access high-quality healthcare. You are leaving a lasting legacy at Castleton University. In these unprecedented times, surrounded by uncertainty, I know one thing for sure: Together, you will change the world. This magazine is dedicated to you. In its pages, you’ll find stories that highlight the past four years at Castleton and tributes to all the good you have done here.
STAY IN TOUCH!
/CASTLETONEDU
Respectfully,
Dr. Karen M. Scolforo President, Castleton University MAGAZINE SPRING 2020 3
