Green Mountain College Campus Eyed for Revival by Evangelist Greg Faison

Greg Faison, an evangelist and leader of a Christian organization, has expressed a desire to reopen the former Green Mountain College campus located in Poultney, Vermont. This picturesque rural campus, encompassing 150 acres and several buildings including the historic Ames Hall, has been largely dormant since Green Mountain College ceased operations in 2019 due to persistent financial difficulties, a situation exacerbated by declining student enrollment. Green Mountain College itself had a long history, having been founded in 1834 and serving approximately 750 students prior to its closure.

Faison's vision for the revitalized campus is centered on establishing a hub for vocational training and religious discipleship, with an ambitious target of accommodating up to 500 students. The proposed programs aim to equip students with practical skills in trades such as welding and culinary arts, integrated with theological studies. This dual focus suggests an attempt to address both workforce needs and spiritual development within the community.

However, the proposal is currently shrouded in significant uncertainty regarding its financial viability and strategic execution. Details concerning the source of funding, the specific curriculum development, and the comprehensive operational plans remain largely undefined. Faison has indicated that the project would be financed through a combination of private donations and potential applications for federal grants. Yet, concrete financial projections and a detailed business plan have not been publicly disclosed.

Adding to the skepticism surrounding the initiative is Faison's prior experience in higher education leadership. He was instrumental in the operation of Trinity College of Vermont, which ultimately closed its doors in 2017. Trinity College's demise was attributed to a combination of accreditation challenges and ongoing financial instability, raising questions about Faison's capacity to successfully navigate the complex landscape of college administration and accreditation. The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development has confirmed that no formal proposal has been submitted by Faison, and local officials are awaiting more substantive information before considering any form of support.

The potential resurrection of the Green Mountain College campus presents a significant opportunity for the rural Vermont community, which has felt the economic and social impact of the institution's closure. Nevertheless, the path forward is fraught with considerable challenges, requiring Faison to secure substantial financial backing, formulate a robust and accredited academic and vocational program, and successfully navigate the stringent regulatory requirements governing higher education. The historical precedent set by the closure of Trinity College under his leadership casts a notable shadow, prompting caution among those familiar with his previous ventures.