Norwich University Applied Research Institutes Honored with Pro Patria Award

Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI) received the prestigious Pro Patria Award from the Vermont Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) committee on September 6th, 2024. The award was presented at the Vermont ESGR's annual Employer Awards and Recognition event at the Vermont Air National Guard (VTANG) 158th Fighter Wing. NUARI Vice President and Chief Research Officer Kristen Pedersen accepted the honor on behalf of the organization.

The Pro Patria Award is the highest level of recognition bestowed by the Vermont ESGR committee, acknowledging employers who demonstrate exceptional support for National Guard and Reserve employees. NUARI was recognized as a public sector employer that has gone above and beyond in supporting its employees' military service.

Major General Gregory Knight, Vermont's Adjutant General, was the guest speaker at the event, highlighting the importance of employer support for National Guard and Reserve members.

"NUARI has long relied on the dedicated members of the National Guard and Reserve to power our success. NUARI is committed to providing a work environment that allows these patriots the opportunity to serve their country while building their communities." - Phil Susmann, President, NUARI.

The award recognizes NUARI's adoption of personnel policies that make it easier for employees to participate in the National Guard and Reserve, including flexible scheduling, leave policies, and career advancement opportunities.

The Vermont ESGR committee's annual event celebrates employers who demonstrate outstanding support for their Guard and Reserve employees, and NUARI is honored to be among this year's recipients.

Photo courtesy of the Vermont ESGR committee. Pictured (L-R), Sabrina Milano, Chair for the State of Vermont; ESGR, Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, Adjutant General, Vermont National Guard; Kristen Pedersen, PhD, NUARI Vice President & Chief Research Officer; and Bruce Townshend, Chief, Employer Engagement, ESGR, Department of Defense.