Castleton Alumni Inducted into VSC Hall of Fame
On Wednesday, March 9, the Vermont State Colleges inducted their first alumni Hall of Fame class and raised over $100,000 for student scholarships. John and Sue Casella, classes of 1972 and 1975, were honored as the first Castleton alumni inducted into the VSC Hall of Fame.
John and Sue Casella are committed community members and steadfast supporters of Castleton University. John cofounded Casella Waste Systems, one of Vermont’s top ten businesses, where he is CEO and Chair of the Board. A national leader on recycling and resource recovery, John is active on the National Recycling Commission. In his community John is a member of the board of the Associated Industries of Vermont and Rutland Regional Medical Center. Sue, who received a Master’s degree at Castleton, is a retired elementary school teacher who received many accolades throughout her career. In recognition of their generosity and support, Castleton University’s theater is named for the Casellas.
A challenge to sustainability from John Casella precipitated Castleton’s commitment to recycling and sustainability. The University implemented many changes, from the largest student-run recycling initiative in the country, to buying hybrid vehicles, to using only recycled and recyclable products wherever available, to LEED Gold energy efficient buildings, to the largest rooftop sea of solar panels in Vermont, bolstered by state of the art wind turbines, and many other projects.
"We are so grateful for Sue and John Casella. No two people in Vermont have better exemplified pride in civic duty, philanthropic generosity, giving back to one’s community, and love of family,” said President Dave Wolk. “John and Sue Casella have been role models for all to emulate, and could not be more deserving as our first inductees into the Hall of Fame."