Full Breakdown
Whiskey Mogul Offers College Campus with a Religious Vision
3/16/2026, 12:38:53 AM
Overview of the Offer
Raj Peter Bhakta, the founder of the Vermont-based whiskey brand WhistlePig, is proposing to donate the campus of the now-defunct Green Mountain College in Poultney, Vermont, valued at approximately $200 million, to a Catholic or Christian institution. His condition for this gift is that the recipient aligns with his vision for a revival of Western civilization rooted in spiritual values. Bhakta acquired the campus during the pandemic for $4.5 million, significantly lower than its original asking price of $20 million.
Bhakta's Background and Vision
Bhakta's journey into the whiskey industry began after he was fired by President Donald Trump while competing on "The Apprentice." Following a challenging period during the 2008 recession, he identified a gap in the high-end whiskey market and founded WhistlePig. After selling his stake in the company in 2019, Bhakta shifted his focus to higher education, which he describes as facing an "epic, large-scale disaster." He believes that the decline of American values necessitates a return to Christian roots, stating, "There's a deeper, more fundamental need in this country."
The Future of Green Mountain College
Initially, Bhakta intended to lead the new institution himself but is now seeking "credible potential beneficiaries" who can effectively execute his vision. His preference is for a Catholic institution, followed by other Christian groups. If he cannot find a suitable recipient, he has indicated he may sell the campus. Green Mountain College, which closed in 2019 due to declining enrollment, was one of three private colleges in Vermont that shut down that year.
Community Perspectives
Sarah Pelkey, the former community development director for Poultney, remarked on the campus's beauty and the opportunity it presents, noting that someone "definitely got a steal." Bhakta's firm convictions about the need for a spiritual revival in the country are evident in his statements. He expressed hope for a "third great awakening" in America, which he believes could lead to the revival of the nation and its civilization.
Official Statements & Responses
Bhakta has articulated his vision clearly, emphasizing the importance of humility and service as foundational to humanity's greatest achievements. He stated, "We've had two great awakenings in this country before, and I think we're at the dawn, God willing, of a third great awakening." His commitment to this cause is reflected in his determination to find a suitable institution for the campus.
Criticism & Opposition
While Bhakta's vision has garnered attention, it may also face scrutiny from those who question the feasibility of his plans or the implications of a religious institution taking over a former college campus. The potential for differing opinions on the appropriateness of such a transformation remains a point of discussion.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There's a deeper, more fundamental need in this country, and that is to go back to our Christian roots.” — Raj Peter Bhakta, Founder of WhistlePig
- “We've had two great awakenings in this country before, and I think we're at the dawn, God willing, of a third great awakening,” — Raj Peter Bhakta
- “That, incidentally, is worth fighting for.” — Raj Peter Bhakta
This initiative by Bhakta reflects a unique intersection of business, education, and religious values, raising questions about the future of higher education in America and the role of faith-based institutions in addressing societal challenges.
