Vermont Business Magazine Vermont State University (VTSU) recently honored employees whose careers span decades and multiple legacy institutions, recognizing their lasting impact on Vermont’s higher education and their unwavering commitment to students and communities statewide.
On December 8, all five VTSU campuses hosted Employee Celebration Luncheons, where faculty and staff were recognized for reaching service milestones in five-year increments, celebrating anywhere from 5 to 35 years. The event featured handcrafted gifts created by students and staff at the Randolph campus Manufacturing Center, showcasing the innovation and skill that define VTSU.
Allan Rodgers, MBA, MEd, professor of business, has worked for the Vermont State College System (VSC) for 25 years, including five years as president of Vermont Technical College (2000–2005). Rodgers reflected: “What began as a one-year commitment has grown into more than two decades with the VSC. Although I was originally hired as an administrator, I’ve found even greater fulfillment in teaching—especially when a student says, ‘I understand it better now,’ or ‘It finally makes sense.’ Commencement has been especially rewarding, giving me the privilege of witnessing the launch of yet another generation of talented and accomplished graduates.”
Robin Guillian, Director of Aviation and Professor in VTSU Williston’s Professional Pilot Technology Program, was honored for her 10 years of service. She reflected on this milestone and the impact the program has had over the years: “Since our first graduating class in 2016, we have graduated over 100 pilots flying for major airlines, corporate aviation, and the U.S. military. They are leaders and mentors, and six of them returned to participate in our Professional Pilot Mock Interview Day this September.
We’ve introduced aviation to over 1,000 elementary students, launched Vermont’s first Women in Aviation chapter, and run youth programs like Aerocamp and the YES program for Burlington High School. All this doesn’t happen without enormous support, and I am deeply grateful to VTSU, Vermont Tech, and my colleagues for making these ten years work to be proud of.”
Dr. Abbess Rajia, professor of mathematics and statistics, celebrated 35 years of service this year at VTSU Castleton, and shared his perspective on the evolution of education: “Over the years, I’ve witnessed a remarkable shift in our student body. Today’s learners are more diverse, more technologically fluent, and far more globally aware. My approach has always been human-centered and student-driven. The heart of good teaching remains the same: academic excellence paired with genuine human connection. Knowing our students—their stories, challenges, hopes, and dreams—still matters.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Rajia has mentored students who have gone on to Ph.D. programs at prestigious universities, helped design the Vermont Institute of Mathematics for teachers, and supported Vermont’s workforce of mathematics educators. He added: “Our real task is to help students build thinking skills—critical reasoning, curiosity, creativity, and the confidence to navigate a rapidly shifting world.”
Deborah Whitney has had a 35-year career as a custodian at VTSU Johnson, and offered a heartfelt reflection on her years of service: “I prefer to work behind the scenes along with my team. Among us we have over 150 years of experience working at Johnson. I have been fortunate to work with many good people and students at Johnson throughout the years, it has been a good fit for me.”
Whitney’s quiet dedication has ensured a welcoming and well-maintained campus environment for generations of students.
VTSU President David Bergh addressed employees during the celebration, sharing: “You’ve created legacies that have shaped our campuses and inspired generations of students. Your commitment speaks to a deep belief in our mission and a willingness to adapt and lead through change. Your work matters. Your impact is real. And your dedication is deeply appreciated.”
ABOUT VERMONT STATE UNIVERSITY
Vermont State University (VTSU) provides a high-quality, flexible, and affordable education for students seeking associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, certificates, and in-demand professional credentials. The university builds upon a history of public higher education in Vermont dating back to 1787. More information about Vermont State University can be found at: VermontState.edu
12.16.2025. Randolph, VT — Vermont State University
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