Governor Phil Scott announced as the 2025 Norwich University Commencement Speaker

“We are immensely honored to welcome Governor Phil Scott as the distinguished keynote speaker for our spring commencement,” stated Lt. Gen. John Broadmeadow ’83, USMC (Ret), 25th President of Norwich University. “Governor Scott has demonstrated unwavering support for Norwich, continuously endorsing our long-standing mission. His career embodies the key principles enshrined in our Guiding Values: honor, integrity, leadership, and service to nation and others before self. The Norwich University mission statement closes by commanding us ‘to make moral, patriotic, efficient, and useful citizens, and to qualify them for all those high responsibilities resting upon a citizen of this free republic,’ a mission fulfilled by our graduating Class of 2025, our numerous alumni, and Governor Scott alike.”

Norwich University’s commencement will be held in Shapiro Fieldhouse at 10 a.m. on May 3. The Joint Commissioning ceremony will be held later that afternoon at the same location.

Slow Down for Frogs and Salamanders

Vermont Fish and Wildlife urges drivers to slow down or take alternate routes at night in early spring to protect amphibians crossing roads during breeding season.

Each spring, amphibians migrate to breeding wetlands during “Big Nights” – evenings with rainfall, temperatures above 40°F, and partially thawed ground after snowmelt.

“These crossings offer rare opportunities to observe multiple species that may remain hidden the rest of the year,” notes herpetologist Luke Groff. This includes “mole salamanders” that live underground most of the time.

Vermonters are encouraged to report amphibian crossings to the Vermont Reptile and Amphibian Atlas, including photos when safe. This data helps conservation agencies plan wildlife passages.

To support amphibian conservation, donate to the Nongame Wildlife Fund via state tax forms or the Vermont Fish and Wildlife website.