Raj Peter Bhakta, founder of the Vermont-based whiskey brand WhistlePig, is offering to donate the campus of the defunct Green Mountain College in Poultney, Vermont, to a qualified Catholic or Christian institution. His conditions for the gift emphasize a shared vision for reviving Western civilization through spiritual renewal, reflecting his belief that the current state of American society requires more than technical fixes.
Bhakta, who entered the whiskey industry after being dismissed from “The Apprentice” by President Donald Trump, founded WhistlePig after identifying a gap in the high-end whiskey market during the 2008 recession. He purchased the Green Mountain College campus in 2020 for $4.5 million—significantly lower than its original asking price of $20 million. His original intent was to start a new college but soon recognized the complexities of establishing an educational institution.
Currently, Bhakta is seeking credible beneficiaries who can execute his vision of a college rooted in Christian values. He expresses a firm commitment to spreading what he views as essential virtues for the revival of society. If unable to find a suitable recipient, he indicated he would consider selling the property.
Green Mountain College, known for its rich history, closed in 2019 due to declining enrollment, contributing to a trend of closures among small private colleges in Vermont. Bhakta remains optimistic, hoping to inspire a revival comparable to historical “great awakenings” in the United States.
Why this story matters
- Reflects ongoing debates about the role of values in education.
Key takeaway
- Bhakta seeks to align educational initiatives with spiritual renewal through the gift of a college campus.
Opposing viewpoint
- Critics may argue that the revival of higher education should focus more on inclusivity and diversity than solely on religious values.
