Former Green Mountain College set to reopen as Z University

Raj Bhakta and Evangelist Tommie Zito have agreed to establish Z University on the former Green Mountain College campus in Poultney, Vermont. The Christ-centered project aims to revive the historic property, draw students and ministry activity, and create jobs and events for the region.

Why it matters: - The former Green Mountain College campus is moving toward a new use after years of inactivity. - Z University is designed to blend education, ministry, and leadership training on a historic Vermont property. - The project is expected to bring construction, staffing, hospitality, and tourism activity to Poultney and nearby communities.

What happened: - Entrepreneur Raj Bhakta, founder of Bhakta Spirits and owner of the former Green Mountain College campus, and Evangelist Tommie Zito entered into an agreement to establish Z University. - The university will be a Christ-centered institution in Poultney, Vermont. - The announcement said the campus will begin a new chapter as Z University. - A media contact said Zito is available for interviews about the project and the campus’s future. - More information is available through Zito's Instagram and his Facebook page.

The details: - Bhakta said when he acquired the campus, he wanted the property to serve a greater purpose than a real estate investment. - The stated vision includes renewing communities, contributing to spiritual awakening, and shaping the future through biblical principles. - Zito has preached for more than three decades, led thousands of services, equipped believers for evangelism, and organized citywide outreaches. - Zito’s ministry has reported millions of professions of faith in Jesus Christ. - Zito is known for teaching on America’s Great Awakenings and believes another season of spiritual renewal is coming. - The campus motto is “Let There Be Light.” - Z University plans to cultivate knowledge, character, faith, and servant leadership. - The school’s long-term vision includes Schools of Evangelism, Leadership, Business, Government, Digital Media, Communications, and Global Missions. - The project also includes AI, media, publishing, podcasting, television, and film initiatives. - Planned campus activity includes worship gatherings, community outreach, and leadership development for pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, educators, and civic leaders. - Z University says its guiding message is: It’s All About the Gospel.

Between the lines: - The project is being framed as a revival effort, not just a campus sale or redevelopment. - Bhakta and Zito are tying the campus’s future to faith-based education and broader cultural influence. - The emphasis on media, business, government, and technology suggests the school wants to shape leaders beyond traditional ministry roles. - The ministry partnerships with Catholic and Protestant churches across Vermont, New England, and New York point to a regional strategy, not only a local campus presence.

What's next: - Restoration of the campus is expected to move forward as the project develops. - Z University expects to welcome students from across the United States and around the world. - The campus is expected to host conferences, educational programs, and special events. - Founders say the project may create new opportunities for local businesses, housing, hospitality, restaurants, and tourism. - The university plans to serve the regional Body of Christ through partnerships with churches in Vermont, New England, and New York.

The bottom line: - Green Mountain College is being positioned for a faith-driven reboot with spiritual, educational, and economic goals.