Leadership, Legacy, and Service: Phil Susmann’s Retirement Celebration

“When I arrived on this campus in 1977, as a young student with more enthusiasm than direction, I had no idea that Norwich would become the center of my life for the next 48 years. I remember wearing Khakis and a White Shirt, going into the bowels of Plumley for an audition for the Band… I certainly didn’t imagine I’d still be standing here in Plumley Armory in 2025, …” – NUARI President, Phil Susmann.

On Friday, November 14th, Norwich University’s historic Plumley Armory welcomed more than 100 friends, family, and colleagues to honor Phil Susmann. The setting was deeply symbolic: the same armory that had greeted him nearly five decades earlier now served as the venue for his farewell celebration. That evening, the armory, often described as a cold, cavernous space, was transformed into a warm one by an intimate gathering of friends gathered to honor an individual who had dedicated his career to the betterment of others.

The evening began with the presentation of colors by Norwich University cadets, followed by the National Anthem performed by members of the University’s Band. NUARI’s Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, Sherman Patrick, offered opening remarks and outlined the program. Guests enjoyed dinner while a slideshow traced Phil’s journey, from Norwich cadet to professor, NUARI president, colleague, friend, father, and husband.

Following dinner, tributes were shared by NUARI Board President Mark Young and Norwich University’s 25th President, Lieutenant General John Broadmeadow ’83, USMC (Ret.). Broadmeadow recalled his first encounter with Phil during his time at U.S. Transportation Command, highlighting Phil’s leadership and vision. A video message from Robert Mack, Chairman Emeritus of NUARI’s Board of Directors and Trustee Emeritus of Norwich University, added further reflection. Mack described Phil as “a teacher who cares deeply that people understand the technology and making things happen… a doer who makes things happen.”

Throughout his many years of service, Phil has had the opportunity to speak with numerous individuals and groups. Whether it’s a one-on-one conversation or an address to a packed convention hall, during discussions, Phil’s passion for his work, his understanding, and his willingness to speak honestly and with candor have always brought forth deeper, more meaningful connections, and it was with this characteristic emotional candor that Phil delivered his remarks that evening.

Speaking about Norwich and NUARI, Phil said:

“…looking back across these decades, I’ve learned that success — real success — is measured by the people who walk beside you, the lessons you learn from failure, and the privilege of serving something larger than yourself. Norwich is a place of purpose. It forges leaders, scholars, and citizens who serve something greater than themselves. I’ve had the privilege to witness that purpose — in classrooms, in the boardroom, in the labs, and out on the parade ground.”

Speaking about NUARI: “Leading NUARI was the most rewarding chapter of my professional career. We took Norwich’s spirit of service and innovation into the national arena — tackling cybersecurity, information operations, and resilience long before those were headline topics. But every success there was built on the same Norwich foundation: collaboration, integrity, and the belief that you can accomplish almost anything if you don’t care who gets the credit.

Through NUARI, we reached beyond our campus to serve the nation — bringing Norwich’s ideals of innovation, resilience, and integrity to the front lines of cybersecurity and innovation, preparedness for Vermont and the nation. The NUARI team has always embraced the vision and delivered on all of our promises.”

On retirement, Phil shared: “As I retire, I don’t think of this as leaving Norwich. You don’t leave a place that has become part of who you are. I am simply turning a page in the same story — one that will continue to be written by the next generation of Norwich leaders, teachers, and dreamers.

Eisenhower, in his own farewell, spoke of faith — faith that the future would be guided by wisdom, not fear. I share that faith tonight. Norwich’s best days are ahead, because they will be built by the same spirit of integrity, courage, and service that has carried us this far.”

And in closing:

“Through all the changes, the mission of Norwich,“to make useful and efficient citizens of this great republic” is as vital today as it was when Ransom wrote it in 1840. To have served that mission has been the honor of my life.”

Following his remarks, Phil was presented with a ceremonial Norwich University Saber. The saber is engraved with the words “Phil closed NUARI’s weekly meetings with,” words passed to him by his friend and mentor, General Al Gray: “Attack, attack, attack.”

Phil’s leadership has shaped Norwich and NUARI for decades. His vision and dedication have left an indelible mark not only on the university and NUARI but on the broader national security and innovation communities.

As Phil eases into retirement, we honor his extraordinary contributions and the countless students, colleagues, and partners he has inspired throughout his career. His legacy will continue to guide NUARI as we move forward into the future. In the coming weeks, we will share additional stories and reflections on his impactful tenure.