The University of Vermont has unveiled a new mural honoring the Peace Corps and its longstanding presence on campus. Conceived by Peace Corps recruiter Arminda King and brought to life by Vermont artist Dorie Keck and supported by Dean Emerita of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dr. Leslie Parise, the mural highlights the global reach of the Peace Corps while celebrating its importance to the UVM community. The mural has been installed in the Biology Department with support from past interim Biology Chair Dr. Antonio Cepeda-Benito.
Originally designed for the Marsh Life Science Building, the mural features flora and fauna native to each country where the Peace Corps is currently active. From birds and insects to plants and mammals, the artwork is a vibrant composite of species that reflect the diversity of ecosystems around the globe.
“I wanted to give back to both the University of Vermont and the Peace Corps with this project,” said King. “UVM has a long-standing tradition of preparing exceptional Peace Corps candidates who are both globally minded and deeply committed to service and making a meaningful impact. The species depicted in the mural represent the many countries the Peace Corps has reached. Placing it here on campus honors our relationship and offers a lasting contribution to the UVM community.
A dedication ceremony is scheduled for September 18th, where students, faculty, alumni, and community members will come together to celebrate the mural and the Peace Corps’ legacy at UVM.