Norwich University Board of Trustees Selects Alfred J. “Al” Gobeille ’86 as Chair

Norwich President, Lieutenant General John Broadmeadow, USMC (Ret), expressed his gratitude to both leaders, stating, “I offer my hearty congratulations to Mr. Gobeille and look forward to collaborating with him in advancing Norwich’s mission. I also extend my deepest appreciation to Alan DeForest for his steadfast dedication and wise counsel, which have been invaluable during my tenure.” 

Mr. Gobeille’s election follows a thorough process developed, vetted, and executed by the Board of Trustees. A distinguished alumnus of Norwich University, class of 1986, and parent of a 2018 graduate, Gobeille brings a wealth of experience in leadership, public service, and entrepreneurship. His career spans decades and includes both public and private sector work. Mr. Gobeille has served as Vermont’s Secretary of Human Services, Chair of the Green Mountain Care Board, Chief Operating Officer of the University of Vermont Health Network, and as a successful restaurateur and entrepreneur. His civic leadership includes the Shelburne Selectboard, the Visiting Nurses Association of Chittenden and Grand Isle Counties, and the Champlain Valley Exposition.

Reflecting on his time at Norwich, Mr. Gobeille credits the university with shaping his career and values. He was a member of the Corps of Cadets, played football and rugby, and served in the Military Police Unit. After graduating, he served as a U.S. Army officer, continuing Norwich’s legacy of producing leaders dedicated to service. As a Trustee since January 2024, Al has demonstrated his commitment to the university through active engagement and leadership.

Mr. Gobeille shared, “It is an incredible honor to be entrusted with this role at my alma mater, which has been a cornerstone of leadership and service for over two centuries. Norwich gave me the foundation to serve others and embrace challenges. I look forward to working with the Board, President Broadmeadow, and the entire Norwich community to ensure its enduring legacy.”

Outgoing Chair Alan DeForest ’75 has served on the Board of Trustees since May 2000, including nine years as Chair. During his tenure, he guided Norwich through significant transitions, including three presidential administrations, while addressing challenges in higher education with a steady hand. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the university’s forward trajectory. Prior to his appointment on the Board of Trustees, Mr. Deforest served on the Norwich University Alumni Association Board, demonstrating unwavering dedication and loyalty to his alma mater.

“Serving as Chair of Norwich’s Board of Trustees has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Mr. DeForest. “Our students are an inspiration, and with each passing year, I am more impressed with their caliber and talent. It has been such a joy to shape Norwich’s future in service to them, and the generations that will follow. I am immensely proud of all we have accomplished together, and I have no doubt that Al Gobeille’s leadership will advance the university’s mission in profound ways.”

Norwich University, founded in 1819, is the oldest private military college in the United States and the birthplace of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC). With a mission to develop future military and civilian leaders, Norwich has earned a global reputation for fostering leadership, innovation, and integrity. The university’s governance structure includes the Board of Trustees, University President, and President’s Cabinet—a partnership that ensures the institution continues to thrive in a dynamic and changing world. 

Norwich University’s Board of Trustees represents a diverse group of alumni and non-alumni from sectors including military, business, and education, ensuring a well-rounded perspective to chart the university’s course into the future.