Arlene Erit '60 remembers her mother, Eloise Ballard Erit '28, as a woman who valued hard work, duty, and family.

Eloise rarely spoke about her college days at the University of Vermont, but as Arlene began revisiting old photographs and carefully preserved mementos, she found herself uncovering pieces of Eloise’s life at UVM in the 1920s—a story shaped by perseverance and quiet ambition.

For Eloise, attending UVM was more than just a college experience; it was a commitment to herself and her future. Unlike some students of her time who might have attended college for social connections, Eloise balanced her studies with work, taking a job in the dining hall—a role she humorously called “slinging hash.”

Eloise joined Sigma Gamma, but social events weren’t her primary focus. Instead, she preferred weekends at home with family, prioritizing them over on-campus social gatherings. This commitment would shape her as a diligent and grounded figure throughout her life.

Arlene noted that Eloise, like many women of her generation, faced strict expectations. Women on campus had curfews, a dress code that required skirts, and other rules that emphasized propriety.

Yet even in this structured environment, Eloise formed deep bonds with those around her, including a roommate who went on to become one of the rare female doctors of the time—an impressive accomplishment in an era when women’s options were limited.

Working and Building a Legacy at UVM

After graduation, Eloise worked for the College of Agriculture at UVM, a position she held proudly, even assisting Dean Joseph Hills in the early years of her career.

Arlene shared a unique story about her mother’s dedication: during a rare vacation to Malletts Bay, Dean Hills personally tracked Eloise down, asking her to cut her time off short to help with an overwhelming workload back on campus. Despite the unexpected interruption, Eloise returned without hesitation—a level of commitment and respect that Arlene admires to this day.

Eloise’s career at UVM reflected her drive and independence, qualities that were invaluable later in life.

After her husband passed away at an early age, Eloise returned to work, traveling daily from Milton to Burlington. In a time when single mothers received little support, she relied on family and a close-knit community to continue providing for Arlene.

A Glimpse into Eloise's Personal Life

One rare photograph of Eloise, a beautiful studio portrait, reveals a glimpse of her more playful side.

Arlene is still somewhat surprised to see the image after many years in a closet. “It was like seeing another side of her,” Arlene remarked. “She looked so carefree.” The portrait, taken as a treat Eloise gave herself, captures a moment of joy from a life defined by duty and family. 

As Arlene delved deeper into her mother’s history, she found herself not only learning about Eloise’s time at UVM but also understanding the values that defined her mother’s life.

Eloise’s journey through UVM was one of quiet determination, balancing academic ambitions, financial need, and family commitments. Arlene is proud to preserve her mother’s legacy—a legacy that began with a young woman at UVM in the 1920s and has influenced Arlene and her family across generations.