One of the weekend’s highlights was the celebration of the school’s 150th anniversary through the premiere of Vermont Academy: 150 Years of Learning and Leadership, a film created by Rick Moulton’67 with Rick Moulton Productions. The film offered an opportunity to reflect on the Academy’s history, recognize the people who have shaped its legacy, and celebrate the values that continue to guide the school into the future.

Athletics and entertainment added to the excitement throughout the weekend. Sports games brought students, alumni, and families together to cheer on Vermont Academy’s teams, while the fireworks display over Saxtons River provided a memorable celebration under the night sky. These events captured the energy and camaraderie that make reunion weekend such a special occasion for the Academy community.

The weekend also created opportunities for connection and mentorship. An alumni mentor panel brought graduates together to share their experiences, professional journeys, and advice with current students. Their perspectives highlighted the lasting impact of a Vermont Academy education and the importance of maintaining connections between generations of Wildcats.

Included in the weekend schedule were two special dinners. One to celebrate the Class of 1976 in honor of their 50th Reunion and the second, a special dinner where three former trustees were bestowed the title of Trustee Emeritus. Chris Cota ’66, P '90, '92, Steve Karol ’72, and Don McInnes ’59 were honored with the status of Trustee Emeritus in recognition for their contributions, dedication, and lasting impact as former members of our Board of Trustees. 

Family Weekend added another layer of community engagement, welcoming families to campus to have conversations with their children’s teachers as well as experience student life and participate in the celebrations. 

Head of School Mike Peller shared his annual State of the School address, which provided an opportunity to reflect on the Academy’s accomplishments, discuss its current priorities, and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that will shape its next chapter.

Another important component of the weekend was an airbag training session, offering participants an opportunity to witness our new airbag training facility in action and the talented student athletes who are now able to train for their Olympic dreams year round.

A farm-to-table dinner brought guests together to celebrate local food, shared experiences, and thoughtful conversation. The dinner featured two special guest speakers: U.S. Senator Peter Welch and Representative Michelle Bos-Lun. Their participation added a civic dimension to the weekend, connecting the Academy community with broader conversations about public service, leadership, and the issues affecting Vermont and its residents. Concluding the speaking part of the evening was Head of School Mike Peller. He shared his thoughts on what this moment means for Vermont Academy and encouraged the audience to reflect on how Vermont Academy has given generations of young people room to become - that the time is now for all to enable Vermont Academy to become.

Across the weekend’s events, one theme remained constant: Vermont Academy’s enduring commitment to developing thoughtful, engaged, and capable leaders. From celebrating the school’s history through film to learning from alumni and public servants, the reunion offered opportunities to recognize how the Academy’s mission continues to influence the lives of its students and graduates.

As Vermont Academy celebrates 150 years of learning and leadership, Reunion and Family Weekend served as both a tribute to the past and a celebration of the future. The gathering honored the generations who built the school’s legacy while bringing the community together around the shared experiences, relationships, and aspirations that will carry Vermont Academy forward for the next 150 years.

Link to Head of School Mike Peller's Head of School Address
Link to Head of School Mike Peller's 150th Celebration Dinner Address