Richard E. “Rich” Tarrant Sr., one of the most influential supporters in the University of Vermont’s history, passed away on August 12, 2025. His legacy at UVM is not defined by a single gift or initiative, but by his belief in people and his deep commitment to helping others succeed.

While his philanthropy touched many corners of Vermont, his relationship with UVM was uniquely multifaceted and sure to be enduring. He was a parent, a trustee, a builder, and a partner. And above all, he was a person who believed that education is one of the most powerful tools we have to change lives.

A Trustee, Advocate, and Quiet Leader

Rich’s service on the UVM Board of Trustees reflected his broader commitment to the University’s success. He brought a business leader’s perspective and a Vermonter’s values to the table, helping to guide the institution during important chapters of its growth.

At the same time, he rarely sought credit. In fact, Rich often redirected recognition to others. He helped fund the Richard and Mary Anne Gucciardi Fitness Center, named after longtime supporters who were cornerstones of the UVM Athletics community for decades. He also gave to the UVM Medical Center in honor of hospital volunteers Allen and Bonnie Martin, rather than placing his own name on the gift.

This quiet, intentional approach to philanthropy shaped everything he did. It wasn’t about buildings or headlines. It was about people.

Creating Space for Students to Thrive

In 2009, Rich and his wife, Deborah, began a partnership with UVM that would go on to benefit thousands of students and educators. They had become deeply concerned about the growing number of young people who were becoming disengaged from their education during their middle school years. This concern sparked the creation of the Tarrant Institute for Innovative Education, housed in UVM’s College of Education and Social Services.

The Institute, officially launched in 2010, was designed to support educators in making classrooms more engaging, relevant, and effective for today’s learners. Led by Dr. Penny Bishop, a UVM professor and expert in adolescent education, the Tarrant Institute focused on helping schools personalize learning and use technology in meaningful ways.

Over the next 15 years, the Tarrant Foundation invested nearly $12 million in the Institute and related programming, helping expand its reach to roughly 60 middle schools across Vermont. The Institute offered long-term, hands-on support to teachers, helping them rethink how students experience school. The results were clear. Students were more motivated. Teachers were more confident. Classrooms were more active and inclusive.

A 2015 article published by the UVM Foundation described the impact in simple terms. Classrooms had become “alive, vibrant, and meaningful to students.” That was exactly what Rich hoped for when the work began.

The Tarrant Institute’s work wound down in the early 2020s, but its 15-year legacy is still felt throughout schools in Vermont.

As Lauren Curry, executive director of the Tarrant Foundation, later shared, Rich was never interested in symbolic gestures. He wanted to see real outcomes in the lives of real people. The Tarrant Institute was one of the most visible examples of that philosophy in action.

Commitment to Athletics, Health, and Campus Life

Rich Tarrant’s support for UVM went far beyond the classroom. Three of his children were student athletes. Rich Jr. and Brian both played basketball, and Jerry played ice hockey. During their time and long after they all graduated, Rich supported UVM Athletics. His support for the Men’s Ice Hockey and Men’s Basketball programs – giving generously over many decades – strengthened the teams and the student-athlete experience.

His belief in the power of athletics to build character, leadership, and pride was deeply felt across the campus community.

In 2018, Rich made a landmark $15 million commitment to help fund the Tarrant Center, the signature element of UVM’s planned multipurpose athletics facility. The Tarrant Center will be the new home for UVM’s basketball programs. While the pandemic and rising costs have delayed construction, the gift remains a powerful expression of faith in the University’s future and a lasting testament to his commitment to excellence in athletics.

Rich also contributed to the development of the Dudley H. Davis Center in the late 2000s. The Davis Center was envisioned as a student-centered hub of campus life, and his support helped bring that vision to life in meaningful ways. Today, it remains one of the most visited and vibrant spaces on campus.

His generosity also extended to UVM’s medical and research efforts. Rich was a regular donor to the UVM Cancer Center, supporting the work of Dr. David Krag in advancing cancer treatment through groundbreaking research. He also contributed to the Robert W. Hamill, M.D. Green and Gold Professorship, an endowed faculty position that recognizes excellence in clinical care and academic leadership.

Each of these gifts reflected Rich’s broader values. He believed in supporting people who dedicate themselves to solving difficult problems. He believed in investing in the future. And he believed in helping institutions like UVM continue to grow in purpose and impact.

A Family Effort

The work of the Tarrant Foundation was a shared effort between Rich and Deborah, guided by their belief that every person deserves the chance to reach their full potential. The Foundation has supported a wide range of initiatives across the state, including education, health care, and youth development.

Rich was also a proud UVM parent. In addition to Rich Jr., Jerry, and Brian, Rich’s granddaughter is currently a student at the Larner College of Medicine – carrying on a proud tradition for the Tarrant family.

That personal connection to the University added another layer to his giving. He understood UVM not just as an institution, but as a place where students grow, where ideas take root, and where futures begin.

With Deepest Gratitude

It is difficult to fully capture the scope of Richard Tarrant’s impact on the University of Vermont. His investments in education have changed how teaching happens in Vermont’s middle schools. His support for athletics has opened doors for student-athletes. His service on the board helped shape the direction of the University. His gifts to research, medicine, and student life have improved the campus for all.

The UVM community is profoundly grateful to Rich and the entire Tarrant family. Their partnership has helped make UVM stronger, more responsive, and more hopeful.

Richard Tarrant believed in this institution, and he believed in what was possible when people are given the tools to succeed. That belief will continue to guide UVM for years to come.

Thank you, Rich.