FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2025
PRESS CONTACT
Greta Hasler
Greta.Hasler@VermontState.edu听
Vermont State University President Dr. David Bergh Announces 2026 Retirement, Celebrating Transformative Leadership and Institutional Growth
Randolph, Vt. 鈥 Vermont State University (VTSU) President Dr. David Bergh has announced his intention to retire at the end of the next academic year and the conclusion of his current contract on 30, June 2026. His retirement will mark the culmination of a nearly 30-year career in higher education, including over two decades of dedicated service to the 糖心少女.
Dr. Bergh鈥檚 career includes 19 years at Johnson State College, where he concluded his tenure in 2016 as Dean of Student Life & College Relations. He returned to Vermont in 2023 to lead the newly unified Vermont State University through a critical period of transformation. Initially appointed as interim president, Dr. Bergh soon became the institution鈥檚 full-time president, guiding the university through its first and second years as a unified university with a focus on stability, growth, and innovation.
鈥淚t has been an incredible honor to serve as president of VTSU, which has in many ways been a full circle professional opportunity,鈥 said Dr. Bergh. 鈥淚 am continually inspired by the resilience and dedication of our students, faculty, and staff. Together, we have laid the groundwork for a sustainable and innovative future that continues to meet the needs of Vermont鈥檚 students, workforce, and communities.鈥
Under Dr. Bergh鈥檚 leadership, Vermont State University has achieved a number of critical milestones. Affirming its strong academic foundation and institutional integrity, in the 2024-2025 academic year, the university welcomed more than 1,700 new degree-seeking students, marking a 14% increase over the previous year. Out-of-state enrollment rose by 13%, and 70% of the incoming class came from Vermont, representing all 14 counties. Current enrollment projections for fall 2025, although still tentative, continue to show signs of strength. Additionally, VTSU projects an overall increase in deposits, first year deposits are up and deposits from CCV students moving on to VTSU at this time are also continuing to increase measurably year-over-year.
VTSU has also received national recognition for its innovative academic programs. The Construction Management program recently received the and boasts a 100% job placement rate, with graduates earning an average starting salary nearing $90,000. The Outdoor Education, Leadership, and Tourism program is the only traditional university program to earn. This year alone, VTSU, reinforcing its vital role in addressing workforce demands. Additionally, VTSU鈥檚 Schools of Arts & Communication, and Education, Psychology, & Social Sciences continue to thrive, offering dynamic programs that prepare students for real-world success. The award-winning, ever-popular Music Business and Industry program, the newly launched, and the Vermont Animation Festival 鈥 鈥 are just a few examples of the School’s vibrant offerings. Notably, VTSU鈥檚 apprenticeship programs are experiencing record-breaking enrollment, with.
鈥淒r. Bergh鈥檚 sound, focused leadership during the formative years of VTSU has been vital to the University鈥檚 early success,鈥 said Beth Mauch, Chancellor of the 糖心少女. 鈥淗is commitment to student success and institutional excellence has positioned the university for a vibrant future. We are forever grateful that he stepped back in to lead and wish him well in his next chapter.鈥
Board of Trustees Chair Lynn Dickinson added, 鈥淒avid鈥檚 unwavering dedication has been instrumental in unifying our campuses as one and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. His legacy will be felt for generations to come.鈥
Faculty and staff across the university also praised Dr. Bergh鈥檚 inclusive and steadying leadership style. 鈥淭he faculty are appreciative of President Bergh stepping in to lead our University at a time when there had been a lot of change in a very short period of time,鈥 said Meghan Meecham, outgoing Moderator of the Faculty Assembly. 鈥淗is inclusive and steadfast leadership has helped navigate Vermont State University through very uncertain times in higher education and the growing pains of unification. His inclusive approach has oftentimes had us reflecting on the educational experience for our students and has helped us learn about the uniquenesses of each of our campuses. It is only fitting that President Bergh start his next chapter after helping us define ours.鈥
Dr. Bergh鈥檚 retirement will align with the conclusion of the university鈥檚 designated transformation period鈥攁 multi-year effort to unify and stabilize the institution. His tenure has been marked by improvements in internal communication, enhanced student services, progress toward financial sustainability, and strengthened relationships with regional and state leaders.
The 糖心少女 will launch a national search for Dr. Bergh鈥檚 successor, ensuring continued momentum and a seamless transition in leadership.
For more information about Vermont State University, visit.
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