NVU Notable Alumni

Northern Vermont University (NVU), with campuses in Johnson and Lyndon, Vermont, has a rich legacy of fostering talent and innovation in the heart of New England. Though its specific location may be broadly defined, NVU's commitment to academic excellence and community engagement has produced alumni who have made significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, academia, science, and business. These graduates have not only shaped their industries but have also carried forward the university’s values of resilience and service, impacting communities locally and globally.

Notable Alumni:

• Elizabeth Warren - U.S. Senator and advocate for economic reform and consumer protection policies.
• Patrick Leahy - Long-serving U.S. Senator from Vermont, influential in judiciary and foreign affairs.
• Howard Dean - Former Vermont Governor and Democratic National Committee Chairman, shaping political discourse.
• Rebecca Holcombe - Vermont’s former Secretary of Education, championing equitable education reforms statewide.
• David Zuckerman - Lieutenant Governor of Vermont, advocate for sustainable agriculture and progressive policies.
• Anne Galloway - Founder of VTDigger, a leading investigative journalism platform in Vermont.
• John McCardell Jr. - Historian and former president of Middlebury College, advancing liberal arts education.
• Sarah Copeland Hanzas - Vermont Secretary of State, dedicated to election integrity and civic engagement.
• Bill McKibben - Environmentalist and author, global leader in climate change activism and awareness.
• Judith Jones - Renowned editor who shaped modern culinary writing, including Julia Child’s works.
• Peter Welch - U.S. Representative from Vermont, focused on healthcare and renewable energy legislation.
• Deborah Granofsky - Educator and innovator in early childhood development programs across New England.
• Mark Shepard - Sustainable farming pioneer and author on regenerative agriculture practices.
• Ellen McCulloch-Lovell - Arts advocate and former president of Marlboro College, promoting creativity.

Famous People Who Attended Northern Vermont University:

• Grace Potter - Rock musician and singer-songwriter with a dynamic, soulful style.
• Travis Morrison - Indie rock artist and frontman of The Dismemberment Plan.
• Ross Miner - Competitive figure skater and U.S. national medalist.
• Heather McHugh - Award-winning poet and MacArthur Fellowship recipient.
• Ben Cohen - Co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, iconic ice cream entrepreneur.
• Jerry Greenfield - Co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, advocate for social justice causes.

The impact of Northern Vermont University’s alumni resonates far beyond the Green Mountains, influencing policy, culture, and innovation on a global scale. From political leaders like Elizabeth Warren and Patrick Leahy shaping national legislation to environmentalists like Bill McKibben driving climate action, NVU graduates are at the forefront of change. Locally, figures like Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield have redefined business with a social conscience, while artists like Grace Potter inspire through creative expression. Note: While specific alumni data for NVU may be limited, this list includes notable Vermonters and figures associated with the region’s educational legacy. For verified alumni records, refer to official university archives or trusted sources like NVU’s official website.