William L. Librera '68, G'72

Bill has dedicated himself and his career to the students, teachers, and families of New Jersey.

Guided by his passion for education, he served as a public sector educator in the state for more than forty years. After several years in the classroom as a social studies teacher, he went on to serve as a superintendent and chief school administrator in several districts. The Governor of New Jersey appointed Bill to his cabinet as Commissioner of Education in 2002.

As Commissioner, Bill oversaw 1.3 million students and a budget of $8.6 billion and worked with peers throughout the United States to enhance teaching and learning. In 2005, he became the Presidential Research Scholar and Chief Executive Officer of Rutgers University's Institute for Improving Student Achievement. Bill has always championed early childhood education, special education, and services for families struggling with poverty. His significant positive impact on the world of education is widely recognized.

At UVM, Bill was a standout on the varsity basketball team and majored in education. He returned to campus soon after graduation to earn an M.A. in history, and later went on to earn an Ed.M. and an Ed.D. from the Graduate School of Education at Rutgers. Bill resides in Smiths Landing, New York with his wife, Nancy '68. The couple has three adult children.