Distinguished Scholars' Certificate
The Distinguished Scholars’ Certificate Program provides high-achieving students with the opportunity to participate in and contribute to a stimulating academic experience with a supportive community of peers and professors. The program encourages a campus climate of intellectual curiosity and academic achievement.
Distinguished Scholars’ Certificate students are eligible for membership in the Honors Council and to apply for residence in Honors housing and a competitive scholarship.
To earn the Distinguished Scholars' Certificate, students must:
- Be nominated by a member of the Castleton faculty. The nomination form is available here.
- Maintain a 3.50 cumulative GPA.
- Complete twelve credits of Honors courses, selected from any combination of:
An Honors-designated First-Year Seminar
HON1010: Great Ideas in the Castleton Curriculum
ENG2270: Honors Touchstones
HON2020: Special Topics in Honors (two sections are offered each semester)
Successful completion of the Distinguished Scholars' Program will be noted on the student’s transcript.
Areas of Study
- Archaeology, Geography, & Applied Anthropology
- Art
- Athletic Training
- Athletic Training (Kinesiology/Pre-AT+MAT)
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Chemistry
- Computer Information Systems
- Criminal Justice
- Early Childhood and Special Education
- Ecological Studies
- Economics
- Education
- English/Literature
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Studies
- Exercise Science
- Geography
- Geology
- Global Studies
- Graphic Design
- Health Promotion
- Health Science
- History
- Kinesiology
- Mathematics
- Media and Communication
- Multidisciplinary Studies
- Music
- Music Education
- Nursing
- Philosophy
- Physical Education
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Resort & Hospitality Management
- Social Studies
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Sport Management
- Theater Arts
- Wildlife and Forest Conservation
- Women's and Gender Studies
- Master of Arts & Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in School Psychology
- Master of Arts in Arts Administration
- Master of Arts in Education + Teacher Licensure
- Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction
- Master of Arts in Education: Special Education
- Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
- Master of Athletic Training
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Music Education
- Master of Science in Accounting
- Master of Science in Athletic Leadership
Castleton People
Nick Minarik
English/Literature, '12
"My experience has taught me that you can be the best at what you do, but without the ability to express it in a convincing way, no one will notice."
Read Profile
Dr. Joyce Thomas
English/Literature,
"Wherever possible, her approach to teaching seeks to combine the critical and the creative."
Read Profile
Cassie Papandrea
English/Literature, '15
"This is what I want to do. I found my place."
Read Profile
Jack DelPriore
English/Literature, '15
"I like to wander around malls, bookstores, or any place that might interest me just to look at the people and things that are around while I let my mind do some wandering of its own."
Read Profile
Jorah McKinley
Media and Communication, '15
"I find that it's small enough that you develop a great network of close friends and a strong sense of community, but at the same time there are always new people to meet."
Read Profile
Jill Harrington
Social Work, '15
"I appreciate the fact that my professors know me by name and I am able to receive one-on-one interaction with them."
Read Profile
Lyndsay Christman
Social Work, '15
"I had gone from never hearing of the college to deciding Castleton would be my number one choice for my college career."
Read Profile
Laura Nally
Health Promotion, '15
"My professors are always there to talk to me, help me whether its in their class or not, even if I'm having other problems not related to my academics."
Read Profile
Eric Horsfield
Sport Management, '15
"I love the campus and the atmosphere that Castleton gives off."
Read Profile
Kelsey Burnell
Spanish, '14
"Castleton has offered me so many experiences to learn outside of a traditional classroom setting."
Read Profile
Colleen Jenkins
Athletic Training, '15
"The second I stepped on campus, it felt like home."
Read Profile
Tarryn Bolognani
Athletic Training, '13
"Castleton had a major influence on where I am today."
Read Profile
Lauren Martin
Theater Arts, '06
"Castleton was a nurturing environment that allowed me to discover and develop many skills."
Read Profile
Melissa Verrill
Computer Information Systems, '09
"My Castleton professors gave me the tools and confidence I needed to be successful."
Read Profile
Liz Martin
Sport Management, '04
"I thoroughly enjoy being immersed in the professional sports world."
Read Profile
Jacob Swane
Biology, '15
"Castleton has shown me what I want to do with the rest of my life and has opened the door to so many opportunities."
Read Profile
Marissa Smyrski
Health Science, '14
"My journey at Castleton helped me to have the confidence to chase after my dream.”
Read Profile
Aakash Shah
Biology, '14
“There are endless opportunities for hands on research and learning at Castleton.”
Read Profile
Dammy Mustapha
Business Administration, '13
“I visited campus and it just felt right. I knew that I wanted to attend before I even left.”
Read Profile
Ben Carstens
Sociology, '15
“At Castleton I’m not just a number, but my professors know me by who I am.”
Read Profile
Molly Howard
Media and Communication, '15
“Castleton has made me excited to figure out my future.”
Read Profile
Lindsey Gullett
Media and Communication, '12
“So many professors and coaches take the time to get to know you and make you feel a part of the Castleton family.”
Read Profile
Sarah Bergstrom
Exercise Science, '15
"Castleton is unique in that it offers a small, close-knit community with lasting connections."
Read Profile
Kimberlee French
Geology, '16
“Castleton, especially the Natural Sciences Department, has provided me with hands on experience in my major."
Read Profile
Kaylee Pratt
Media and Communication, '15
"I had so many great professors and friends who came into my life and I honestly would not change any of it."
Read Profile
Ashley Acuna
Environmental Science, '13
"Castleton gave me the courage and knowledge to be able to move to a new state and start a life."
Read Profile
Ashley Swanson
Business Administration, '09
“I would not be where I am today without my Castleton experience.”
Read Profile
George Grant
Geology, '14
“Every person I encountered influenced my experience at Castleton.”
Read Profile
George Kuhn
Business Administration, '04
"My experience as a business student at Castleton far exceeded my expectations.”
Read Profile
Nicole LeBlanc-Dailey
Health Science, '16
"Castleton has provided me with many opportunities to shape my future.”
Read Profile
Nicole Wershoven
Biology, '17
"All the professors that I had at Castleton were extremely helpful and wanted to see each student succeed."
Read Profile
Peter Kazakis
Philosophy, '16
“I have learned many life lessons and will take my experiences here at Castleton with me forward in life.”
Read Profile
Peter Marcano
Computer Information Systems, '13
“At Castleton faculty and staff knew me by name."
Read Profile
Rosie Williams
Geology, '11
"Castleton is unique in that it offers students great opportunities to do research outside the classroom."
Read Profile
Catie Wielgasz
Chemistry, '16
“I have learned important professional skills, along with experiences and opportunities to learn more about chemistry and other sciences.”
Read Profile
Ashley Breen
Environmental Science, '15
“I was able to work one-on-one with professors to get the education that I wanted while also having the small town college experience.”
Read Profile
Josh Budzinski
Exercise Science, '15
“Castleton has given me an expansive set of tools for me to tackle my future goals.”
Read Profile
Rachel Preusser
Health Science, '13
“The resources available and flexibility of the professors schedule allowed me to do well in all of my classes."
Read Profile
Michaela Babineau
Athletic Training, '16
“The sense of community is huge here, no matter what the major, what sport you play, or what clubs you're in.”
Read Profile
Jasen Teal
Ecological Studies, '13
"Spartan pride runs deep and I am very proud to be a Castleton alum."
Read Profile
Gabrielle Tamasi
Philosophy, '12
“The staff at Castleton remain invested in the lives of their students and alum and that's special.”
Read Profile
Antonietta Girardi
History, '15
“The experiences and interactions I have had here at Castleton have helped me to realize my future goals."
Read Profile
Danielle Roberts
Business Administration, '13
“The most important take back I have had from going to Castleton is that the teachers sincerely care about their students and will go above and beyond to see them succeed.”
Read Profile
Nathan Ellsworth
Business Administration, '13
“I gained valuable connections for my career as well as endless amounts of feedback and support from the professors and my classmates."
Read Profile
Gabrielle Tamasi
Pre-Law Program, '12
“Castleton is now able to offer the resources students need to be as successful as possible during the years leading up to law school."
Read Profile
Ryan Ackerman
Media and Communication, '14
“Castleton served as the foundation for a successful career."
Read Profile
Isaac Bendavid
Media and Communication, '16
“The campus is growing everyday and the activities that the school offers seem to be endless."
Read Profile
Carly Trombley
Media and Communication, '18
“Castleton has made me realize that just because I grew up in a small town, doesn't mean I have to have a small town future."
Read Profile
Eric Ginter
Global Studies, '16
“Castleton has helped me develop a worldview that has increased my global awareness and cultural sensitivity."
Read Profile
Dan Regino
Biology, '13
“I am a huge fan of anything and everything outdoors so choosing a school in Vermont was a perfect fit for me."
Read Profile
Emily Kilduff
English/Literature, '10
"Our professors and mentors at Castleton probably still recognize us and think about us from time to time."
Read Profile
Deborah Rodolfy
Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, '10
“Castleton allowed me to complete my degree in two years with a schedule that was flexible and accommodating to my teaching position."
Read Profile
Taylor Skelton
Health Science, '14
“Attending Castleton has helped me obtain the background and credentials necessary to become a competitive applicant for DPT school."
Read Profile
Alex Adams
History, '16
“All of my professors go out of their way to help me out and I am always surprised at how much time and effort is afforded to me.”
Read Profile
Julia McIntyre
Exercise Science, '16
“My professors have been more than willing to help me brainstorm job and internship ideas, as well as connect me with any resources they may have."
Read Profile
Brett Lertola
Mathematics, '14
"The atmosphere at Castleton is something that you can't experience anywhere else."
Read Profile
Sean Leggett
Athletic Training, '12
“I'm proud to be part of a school that has produced so much success."
Read Profile
Angela Weekes
English/Literature, '16
“Castleton's setting as a small university in a small town gives you the opportunity to feel at home."
Read Profile
Alexandra Harris
Health Science, '14
“Castleton helped set me apart from the other future pharmacist prospects."
Read Profile
Kaitlin Hayes
Environmental Science, '12
“I am eternally grateful for my professors, advisors, and peers for always providing insight and opportunities along my academic journey."
Read Profile
Paolo Loli
Computer Information Systems, '17
"We are growing and I feel like a part of the growth on this campus."
Read Profile
Chris Belanger
Theater Arts, '14
“The faculty really care about their students and will do anything to help a student succeed."
Read Profile
Brooke Naylor
Nursing, '17
“Castleton, along with the staff, have helped me shape the nurse that I desire to be."
Read Profile
Chidinma Ezugwu
Economics, '19
These professors relate with me on a personal level, and I am very appreciative of that."
Read Profile
Emily Frank
Ecological Studies, '17
“Being able to have labs in an outdoor, mountainous setting is not only beautiful but is helpful in that I can see exactly what I am learning."
Read Profile
McKenzie Bover
Psychology, '16
“I have also been able to use my education in the community, through interning experiences and different classroom requirements."
Read Profile
Kyle Turner
Media and Communication, '12
My love for sports and video combined to bring me where I am today as the Director of New Media for a Division 1 mid-major conference in the NCAA."
Read Profile
Mikayla Shaw
Psychology, '18
“Castleton faculty and staff have enabled me to better myself academically, professionally, and personally."
Read Profile
Robin Fortier
Psychology, '16
“Castleton has helped shaped my future goals by setting me up with the education I need to be successful in my chosen profession and mapping out the steps I need to take in order to get there."
Read Profile
Shannon Moriarity
Psychology, '16
“They challenged my thinking, opened my mind, and changed my outlook on life."
Read Profile
Nic Soares
History, '10
“Castleton has the opportunities, human connections, and resources for those who are proactive."
Read Profile
Jason Irish
Ecological Studies, '16
“Castleton has put my ideas into a proper perspective and has really shown me what I am good at."
Read Profile
Sarah Harrison
Media and Communication, '16
“Castleton has always made me feel like I was at home, which has contributed to my excellent academics and involvement in extracurricular activities.”
Read Profile
Isaac Devoid
Business Administration, '17
“Castleton has helped me realize my love of learning and has inspired me to possibly pursue higher education after my bachelors.”
Read Profile
Wyatt Andrews
Sociology, '11
“Castleton is big enough that it can provide the more traditional university experience to those that want it, but is small enough to give non-traditional learners the opportunity to grow our education how we see fit."
Read Profile
Catherine Twing
Media and Communication, '17
“I have had the opportunity to meet so many amazing people, attend conferences, and get hands-on experience in my field."
Read Profile
Vanessa Robertson
Political Science, '17
"I feel that my education at Castleton has taught me that no matter where you start, you can accomplish anything."
Read Profile
Amanda Begin
History, '16
“From my classes I have gained a lot of writing and research experience."
Read Profile
Matthew McNamee
Athletic Training, '14
“Castleton shaped me into the hard working, dedicated professional I am today."
Read Profile
Meghan Hakey
Theater Arts, '14
“There is just something about the way Castleton makes you feel when you step foot on the campus."
Read Profile
Jordan Goodrich
Social Studies, '16
“Being able to work with kids and teachers outside of campus is extremely valuable."
Read Profile
Patrick Gadwah
History, '15
“Castleton has made me want to reach a higher potential than I ever thought possible."
Read Profile
Eva Clark
Media and Communication, '17
“Coming to Castleton has helped me to set my future goals by exposing me to many areas of possible career paths."
Read Profile
Furdiki Sherpa
Nursing, '16
"Coming to Castleton has been a great experience that has helped me grow personally and professionally.”
Read Profile
Stephen Edwards
Athletic Training, '13
"The faculty really helped to encourage me to become a critical thinker and to continue to be an active learner, even after graduation."
Read Profile
Courtney Picone
Psychology, '16
“Castleton has helped me to realize that anything is possible as long as you are willing to work hard."
Read Profile
Emily McColl
Art, '17
"Being able to live in another city and experience a different culture while getting an education is an opportunity be taken advantage of.”
Read Profile
Carrie Kohl
Music, '04
"Going to Castleton helped deepen my love of general music and the importance it has in young children’s lives."
Read Profile
Saige King
Music, '18
“I was drawn to Castleton because I heard great things about how relationship based the campus was."
Read Profile
Zak Hampton
Music, '12
“Without the fine faculty and mentors I discovered at Castleton I would not be here teaching today."
Read Profile
Alexa Fryover
Theater Arts, '17
“I’ve met so many cool people, professionals from my field, and have had the opportunity to be critiqued by them which is incredibly helpful.”
Read Profile
Ali Jones
Sport Management, '16
“Being a student-athlete helped me get a job in the field that I got my degree in and increased my organizational skills as well as my time management skills.”
Read Profile
Hahnah Saroff
Health Promotion, '17
“I love how personable and knowledgeable the professors are and Castleton offers so many activities from athletics to clubs."
Read Profile
JenniLee Mark
Media and Communication, '14
“Being a student-athlete has influenced me in countless ways. It has shown me how far I can push myself and how much hard work can pay off.”
Read Profile
Kayla Wood
Physical Education, '17
“Castleton feels like home and the small campus has allowed me to make many connections with both my peers and professors.”
Read Profile
Lacey Stever
Physical Education, '17
“Castleton has increased my love for physical education and health and has shaped me to be a better educator and future leader in the community.”
Read Profile
Morgan Young
Health Promotion, '17
“I am able to enjoy my home state while also being able to take classes outside to learn as well.”
Read Profile
Amanda Beatty
Health Promotion, '18
"Castleton really shaped who I am as a person and has helped me find my passions in life."
Read Profile
Rosa Wallace
Health Promotion, '18
“Castleton has presented me with great opportunities to network and build my resume."
Read Profile
Sonce Pearce
Nursing, '18
“The teachers are invested in my success and that is a great feeling.”
Read Profile
Amanda Burlett
Nursing, '17
“I felt the professors really care about each and every student.”
Read Profile
Brian Greene
Athletic Training, '15
“Castleton’s Athletic Training program offers students the knowledge and skills required for becoming a certified athletic trainer."
Read Profile
Caleb Watkins
Chemistry, '16
“Castleton’s constant drive to improve the education and opportunities available for students makes me proud to be an alum."
Read Profile
Emily Giddings
Biology, '17
“Castleton has proven to me that no matter what your path may be, any goal is attainable.”
Read Profile
Katelyn Doran
Health Science, '11
“I loved going to a small school in a rural setting."
Read Profile
Rachael Brazil
Biology, '18
“I have grown academically and personally, acquiring important life skills.”
Read Profile
Katelynn Leavey
Biology, '16
“My education was more than just an education. It shaped me into the person I am today.”
Read Profile
Jeffrey Virge
Philosophy, '19
“I love what I am learning, and I’m having a blast continuing to learn.”
Read Profile
Amy Newton
Music Education, '11
“My professors pushed me to do my best, pushed me out of my comfort zone, and allowed me to grow into whom the teacher I am today."
Read Profile
Matt Goss
Business Administration, '08
“As a student, I found that professors, staff, and administration took a true interest in my success and often went above and beyond to help me achieve your goals."
Read Profile
Matthieu Fortier
Psychology, '16
“Being from Vermont I was grateful to learn in an environment that was so clean and familiar."
Read Profile
Garrett Robin
Theater Arts, '18
“Castleton has shown me that I don’t have to necessarily be in a big city setting to be an actor.”
Read Profile
Danielle McKeighan
Theater Arts, '16
“The bonds I have built with not only my fellow students, but the faculty as well, have helped me to grow as a person."
Read Profile
Dan Senif
Athletic Training, '13
“Castleton has a great alumni network that has allowed me to connect with people all over the country."
Read Profile
Michael Perrone
Physical Education, '15
“Castleton had a huge influence on me, it strengthened my love and passion for teaching and coaching."
Read Profile
Zijie Wan
Business Administration, '20
“Castleton provides me a better environment to study because it is so peaceful, which is really good for your education.”
Read Profile
Linn Ljungemo
Psychology, '19
“The professors have shown a genuine interest in the person I am, and have pushed me to be the best student that I can be."
Read Profile
Tatenda Shumba
Business Administration, '18
“Castleton has helped me shape my future goals by giving me the perspective of making the world a better place and helping the people in need."
Read Profile
Ashley Billings
Sport Management, '14
“Castleton was the very best choice for me to complete my undergraduate degree. I learned a great amount about the sports industry and what my true interests are."
Read Profile
Alyssa Stetson
Social Work, '17
“I knew that I didn’t want to be in a classroom full of 100 students, so a small campus with a low ratio was a must."
Read Profile
Alexandre Forest
Business Administration, '19
“Castleton has changed my future goals by allowing me to change my mind and develop as a person the way I see fit."
Read Profile
Brett Ford
Master of Arts in Education + Teacher Licensure, '14
“Castleton gave me the opportunity to learn the athletic communications trade as well as pursue an advanced degree."
Read Profile
Brock Labelle
Exercise Science, '17
“Nobody understands what it means to be a Spartan unless you spent four years at Castleton."
Read Profile
Catalina Alcaraz-Guzman
Media and Communication, '07
"Castleton gave me an excellent academic foundation that shaped the professional individual and the person I am today."
Read Profile
Dani Crawford
Sport Management, '15
“I will always be connected to that small college with a big heart and can always feel like my voice and my opinion matters."
Read Profile
Dustin Parker
Sport Management, '12
“Being a Castleton alum means a lot to me. It means getting rewarded for the effort I put in."
Read Profile
Edward Wilkin
Music Education, '12
“Castleton laid the foundation for me to leap forward fearlessly, achieve my high goals, and dreams."
Read Profile
Eric Horsfield
Master of Science in Athletic Leadership, '17
“If I had never come to Castleton, I almost certainly wouldn't have gotten my master's degree and I definitely would not be in the position that I am in today.”
Read Profile
Jennifer Cahee
Global Studies, '16
“If it weren’t for Castleton, I wouldn’t have been able to study abroad in Berlin."
Read Profile
Jeremy Benoit
Sport Management, '13
"Some schools have great campuses and student life, some have great professors and academics, some have prolific sports teams … Castleton has it all.”
Read Profile
Jessica Pierpont
Music, '14
"The phrase 'small college with a big heart' is something that I will always remember."
Read Profile
John Paluzzi
Media and Communication, '93
"I didn't just get an education on my career during those four years; I also learned how to conduct my life.”
Read Profile
Kevin Kareckas
Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction, '15
"For me, Castleton University is synonymous with family."
Read Profile
Karsen Woods
Media and Communication, '17
“Castleton has been the driving force behind my accomplishments, my confidence, and my resilience."
Read Profile
Kinyenje Ngigi
Sport Management, '19
"The staff and faculty are 99 percent of why I have stayed here."
Read Profile
Kristen Partesi
Art, '12
“Castleton was the perfect environment for me to grow as a person and into my own as an artist and educator."
Read Profile
Kristianna Lawless
Master of Science in Athletic Leadership, '17
"You are far from just a number in a classroom, faculty go above and beyond to help you reach your goals."
Read Profile
Maegan Walsh
Media and Communication, '12
"Castleton was just so small and personable. You could have a professor one year that would remember you three years later."
Read Profile
Mariah Phillips
Art, '12
“Being among professors that are as dedicated and supportive as they are ignites your own passion to learn."
Read Profile
Nicole Amagliani
Biology, '19
"Because of Castleton, I will have a leg up on both experience and mastering scientific techniques for when I graduate.”
Read Profile
Patrick Shaughnessy
Master of Science in Athletic Leadership, '17
“Castleton gave me a fantastic, multifaceted education that has helped me foster my skills and use them in a constructive way.”
Read Profile
Olivia Maher
Media and Communication, '18
"Castleton gave me the platform to grow as an individual and helped tailor my talents on a path that’ll hopefully take me far after graduation."
Read Profile
Chidinma Ezugwu
Mathematics, '19
"Castleton has molded me into a strong, resilient, and goal-driven scholar."
Read Profile
Grandon Smith
Health Science, '17
“Being a Castleton alum means knowing that I always have someplace familiar to return to whenever I’m in New England."
Read Profile
Jessica Babcock
Health Science, '16
"Being a Castleton alum means that I am more than just a number, and I will be remembered by face and name."
Read Profile
Crystal Golding
Pre-Med Program, '13
"Not only did Castleton provide me with a strong educational background, but with a strong sense of character as well."
Read Profile
Camille Stengel
Chemistry, '22
“All the hands-on labs, research opportunities, and classes that make you think outside the box influenced my liking towards Chemistry and Science."
Read Profile