Governor Phil Scott welcomed 15 new American citizens during a naturalization ceremony Wednesday, July 1, in the Vermont Supreme Court chambers, calling on the newest Vermonters to help bridge political divides and strengthen the nation through integrity, compassion and civic engagement.

The ceremony, held as the nation marks its 250th anniversary this week, included new citizens representing 13 countries of origin and all 14 Vermont counties.

“As we celebrate our 250th birthday this week, I can think of nothing more American than this ceremony,” Scott said. “It’s great to be here to recognize our nation’s newest citizens.”

Scott congratulated the new citizens for completing what he described as a challenging journey and thanked them for choosing Vermont as their home.

“You should be proud of yourselves as well for your strength and courage to see this process through,” he said. “It’s an honor that you’re making your home here in Vermont. I welcome each and every one of you, as your Governor, and more importantly, now as your neighbor.”

The governor used the occasion to reflect on national unity, warning that political polarization poses a greater threat to the country than outside adversaries.

“In my opinion, one of the greatest threats we face as a country isn’t from outside our borders, it’s right here from within,” Scott said. “The ‘us’ versus ‘them’ mentality, the idea that consensus and compromise are somehow unacceptable or unattainable.”

Scott pointed to Vermont’s response to the devastating floods of 2023 as an example of Americans working together regardless of political differences. He noted that the state mobilized the National Guard, partnered with federal agencies, welcomed assistance from other states and volunteer groups, and later sent Vermonters to help North Carolina recover from flooding in 2024.

“They didn’t think twice before lending a hand because in times of crisis, it doesn’t matter who you voted for, we come together to help our neighbors,” Scott said. “When we’re faced with an emergency, the only question we should be asking is ‘how can I help?’ not ‘are you a Republican or Democrat?'”

Addressing the nation’s newest citizens, Scott said they now have both the opportunity and responsibility to shape their communities and the country.

He encouraged them to follow four guiding principles: treat others as they wish to be treated, act with character even when no one is watching, take responsibility for mistakes, and maintain integrity.

“So let’s listen to, and learn from others with different perspectives, and let’s rise above the polarization and treat people with dignity and respect,” Scott said. “This is literally in our hands.”

The ceremony officially welcomed these 15 individuals as citizens of the United States, with family members and friends attending to celebrate the milestone:

Danielle Haley Drovski, formerly of Canada.
Jason OJ Hamilton, formerly of Jamaica.
Jennifer Anne Grigo, formerly of the United Kingdom.
Tuang Tao Nuen, formerly of Vietnam.
Serge S. HooL, formerly of Canada.
Patrick Wilfred Hoo, formerly of Canada.
3Shenila Fiz Hashmi, formerly of Pakistan.
sChi Joe, formerly of China.
3Yena Zaki Bva, formerly of Kazakhstan.
Jzwin Joshua Anthony Mu Raja formerly of India.
Marvine Aurora Martinez, formerly of the Philippines.
Jacamo Vasoto, formerly of Italy.
Stephanie Yorki, formerly of Germany.
Jerome Sumalino, formerly of the Philippines.
Pauline Elellion Jackson, formerly of France.