Stowe, VT (May 23, 2025) – On May 21, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce celebrated Major General Gregory Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, as the 2025 Citizen of the Year at an event in his honor. Colleagues, friends, and family members gathered at the historic von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort to recognize Major General Knight’s outstanding contributions to Vermont.

The Citizen of the Year award is presented annually by the Vermont Chamber to an individual who has made significant contributions to the betterment of Vermont, distinguished through exceptional service to their community and region, and epitomizes the true spirit of service and self-sacrifice that defines Vermont citizenship. Major General Knight has exemplified these qualities through his proactive leadership, workforce development initiatives, and dedication to ensuring every soldier and airman feels valued.

“When I look around Vermont in my role as the Adjutant General, I realize Vermont is a very special place. We need more believers in Vermont, and we need to bring more believers—and their talent and experience—here,” said Major General Knight.  “I am convinced more than ever of two things: the excellence of our people and the importance of relationships.”

Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, also shared her thoughts on the occasion, saying, “Those who know General Knight speak of his humility, his accessibility, and his unwavering care for the people he serves— whether they wear the uniform or not. His leadership is rooted in humanity, and it has left an indelible mark not just on the Vermont Guard, but on our entire state.”

Remarks celebrating General Knight were delivered by Kristina von Trapp Frame, von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, Greg Maguire, Liquid Measurement Systems, Brigadier General Hank Harder, Deputy Adjutant General of the National Guard Association of Vermont, and the Vermont National Guard and Veterans Affairs Legislative Caucus.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has been honoring outstanding Vermonters with the Citizen of the Year award since 1964. Previous recipients include Tom Dee, Senator Patrick Leahy, Barbara Snelling, Antonio Pomerleau, and Ken Squier. This year’s celebration was a testament to Major General Knight’s remarkable contributions and his enduring legacy in Vermont. This event was supported by these generous sponsors: von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort, Casella, Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation, Farrell Distributing, the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, and the Vermont Department of Labor.