Distinguished Service Award Winners
2025
Karl Fessenden '85
Karl Fessenden ’85 is a globally respected executive and devoted UVM volunteer whose leadership in industry and philanthropy has strengthened UVM’s engineering programs and student opportunities.
2024
Jim Keller '72
Jim Keller is a distinguished alumni leader whose decades of service—including chairing the UVM Foundation and guiding major fundraising efforts—have had lasting impact on the Grossman School of Business and the University.
2023
David Daigle '89
David Daigle ’89 is a UVM trustee emeritus whose leadership as Board Chair helped guide major campus transformation and one of the most successful fundraising campaigns in University history.
2023
Penrose Jackson '70
Penrose Jackson ’70 is a lifelong community builder and passionate UVM volunteer whose leadership has strengthened alumni engagement, public health initiatives, and Vermont’s civic life.
2022
Carolyn Brennan '82 & Rob Brennan '83
Carolyn and Rob are distinguished volunteer leaders whose combined service to the Honors College, UVM governance, and the UVM Foundation has advanced the University’s academic mission.
2022
John Hilton '68
John is a dedicated University of Vermont alumnus whose sustained volunteer leadership and philanthropic support have strengthened the University community and alumni engagement over many decades.
2021
Bernard E. Palmer '75
Bernard Palmer ’75 is a tireless alumni volunteer and mentor whose four decades of service have expanded career networking and opportunities for UVM students and alumni, particularly alumni of color.
2020
Kristina Pisanelli '97
Kristina is an influential alumna leader whose presidency of the Alumni Association Board revolutionized alumni engagement while advancing major University initiatives through tireless volunteer service.
2019
Marc R. Compagnon '80
Marc is a global business leader and UVM ambassador whose long‑standing volunteer service has strengthened the Grossman School of Business through mentorship, innovation, and international perspective.
2018
Paul T. Malone '68
Paul is a model alumni leader whose decades of service as class president have fostered exceptional class engagement, philanthropy, and enduring traditions at UVM.
2017
Deborah H. McAneny '81
Deb McAneny is a former UVM trustee and board chair whose leadership guided the University through strategic transition, historic fundraising success, and strengthened governance.
2017
Lawrence M. Roth '67
Larry is a dynamic alumni volunteer whose decades of service—especially through the New York Regional Board—have reconnected generations of alumni and expanded UVM’s reach and visibility.
2016
Samuel E. Bain, Jr. '68
Sam Bain is a devoted Vermont native and UVM trustee emeritus whose thoughtful leadership and financial expertise have strengthened the University through stability, stewardship, and service.