Champlain College Honors Joyce Judy as 2024 Distinguished Citizen

Yesterday, Champlain College awarded its 2024 Distinguished Citizen Award to Joyce Judy, President of the Community College of Vermont (CCV). In its 63rd year, the Distinguished Citizen Award recognizes and celebrates leaders whose personal and professional achievements make a meaningful impact on their communities.  

Judy has made a difference in the lives of countless students during her 41-year tenure at CCV, where she has served as president since 2009. Judy began her career at CCV in 1983 as coordinator of academic services, has served as dean of students, and was appointed as CCV’s first provost in 2001. 

“Joyce Judy embodies the spirit of civic leadership and we are honored to name her as our 2024 Champlain College Distinguished Citizen,” said Alex Hernandez, President of Champlain College. “She doesn’t just see what is, but envisions what could be, and then brings people together to make it happen. Our state is richer, our students are more empowered, and our future is brighter because of Joyce’s remarkable dedication.” 

A special focus of Judy’s work has been on expanding access to higher education for all Vermonters, from high school students taking college courses to adult students seeking new career opportunities. Through partnerships with businesses, k-12 schools, and four-year colleges and universities, Judy and CCV have made significant strides improving equitable access to Vermont colleges. 

“Over the past 15 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how her transformative leadership at CCV has opened doors for thousands of Vermonters, making higher education more accessible and affordable,” said Dan Smith, President and CEO of the Vermont Community Foundation. “Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to Vermont students exemplifies the very best in higher education.”

During the event, Judy highlighted the need to address affordability. “There is a growing skepticism about the value of a college education, driven by the public narrative around cost and debt,” she said. “Because of this narrative, too many Vermonters are taking college off the table. I believe it is our collective responsibility to shift the narrative about the cost of college, so that we can help all Vermonters see the value in continuing their education.”

One way to achieve that, Judy said, is to strengthen transfer pathways. She has been instrumental in creating more transfer opportunities for CCV students, including from CCV to Champlain College. This spring, Champlain College and CCV signed the Vermont Transfer Guarantee, which ensures admission for graduating students in specific degree programs to corresponding bachelor’s degree programs at Champlain College.

Last year’s Distinguished Citizen honoree was Kevin Chu, Executive Director of The Vermont Futures Project.