Dear faculty, 

Summer programs for students provide unique and meaningful educational opportunities that support yield and retention and enhance revenue and rankings. Many of these programs provide opportunities to introduce students to UVM and create strategic pipelines that support enrollment. We want to ensure an outstanding student experience for these important programs—one that includes adequate space, resources, services, supervision, and support. I am writing to share information on the new, more coordinated approach we are proposing for summer on-campus student programs. 

Changes for Summer 2026 

  • To ensure program success and impact, ALL summer on-campus student programs (academic, athletic, co-curricular, day, and overnight) must complete the Summer Program Proposal Form each year. 

  • Existing programs must submit the completed form by October 1 annually. 

  • Proposed new programs must submit the completed form by October 1 annually. 

  • A new Summer On-Campus Programs Committee (SOCP) will establish guidance for programs, review program requests, and provide approval decisions regarding new and continuing programs. They will also review the success of programs annually. The SOCP will include one member from each of Division of Enrollment Management/Undergraduate Admissions, Division of Student Affairs, Professional and Continuing Education, University Event Services, Housing and Dining, Compliance Services, and the Council of Deans, and will report to a Steering Committee including the Vice Provosts for Academic Affairs and Student Success, Enrollment Management, and Student Affairs as well as the Chief PACE Officer. 

  • SOCP program approvals will be issued by November 15 annually.

  • While other types of programs may be accommodated if the capacity exists, the priority order for summer programs is as follows: 

  • Pre-matriculation programs for students already committed to attending UVM   

  • Academically oriented programs serving current UVM students 

  • Programs for prospective students who can be successful at UVM 

  • High school students (with preference given to rising juniors and seniors)     

  • Themed youth programming with subject-matter connections to a program of study   

  • The allocation of summer housing will shift from University Events Services to the Department of Housing and Dining.

An Invitation for NEW Program Proposals 
We are seeking innovative and well-structured summer program proposals from our faculty. We invite faculty to submit proposals by October 1, 2025, via the Summer Program Proposal Form.  
  
Faculty will be asked to submit elements of the programs in this form, including its overall description and objectives, intended audience, curricular activities, finances, assessment, and a letter of support from the sponsoring unit. Submitters will also be able to identify resources (including summer salary) the program needs to be successful. 
 
Faculty will hear directly from the SOCP committee on or before November 15, 2025, about the program proposal.   
 
Why Faculty Participation Matters 
Faculty expertise and creativity are crucial in shaping meaningful and impactful summer programs that not only meet strategic objectives but also create unique opportunities for students. By participating, faculty directly contribute to the vibrancy and legacy of our academic community. 
 
The SOCP Committee looks forward to reviewing innovative proposals and working together to make Summer 2026 a resounding success. 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Linda Schadler 
Acting Provost and Senior Vice President