Vermont's shuttered colleges are being reborn, but not in the way you might expect. These institutions, once the heart of their communities, are being repurposed in surprising and innovative ways. From religious education to luxury resorts and arts hubs, the future of these campuses is a testament to the creativity and resilience of those seeking to breathe new life into them. But what does this say about the role of higher education in our society, and how can we ensure that these transformations benefit the communities they serve? Let's take a closer look at some of these reinventions and the broader implications they hold.