Sleeping Student ‘Surprised’ to Find University President in Her Dorm Room After Roommate Coordinates Viral Prank

In an unexpected and heartwarming turn of events, Marlene Tromp, the President of the University of Vermont (UVM), recently took the initiative to help a student in need of a wake-up call. On 14th October 2026, Tromp surprised sophomore Hannah Lapier by personally waking her to ensure she made it to class on time, transforming a common morning struggle into a memorable experience.

Hannah Lapier had been grappling with getting out of bed for her early morning classes, a challenge not uncommon among university students. Her roommate, Serena LoScalzo, had explored various ways to help her friend, but traditional alarm clocks failed to do the trick. In a moment of light-hearted banter, LoScalzo jokingly suggested that perhaps they could get President Tromp involved in the wake-up process.

To everyone’s astonishment, LoScalzo took the joke further and emailed President Tromp, proposing the idea of an extraordinary wake-up call for Lapier. Much to LoScalzo’s delight, the president responded within mere hours, expressing her willingness to participate in the fun and deliver the wake-up call.

The viral moment was captured on video and shared on TikTok, where Tromp was seen entering the students’ dorm room, greeting a surprised Lapier with a cheerful, “Good morning! Wake up, sleepyhead.” The president’s visit was not just a playful gesture; she brought along a UVM-themed alarm clock and a selection of bagels for Lapier and her suitemates, blending a funny prank with thoughtfulness.

This delightful video quickly gained traction online, racking up over 600,000 views and generating immense joy among followers. The sheer novelty of the situation, combined with Tromp’s engaging personality, resonated with many, showcasing a lighter side of university life and leadership.

Reflecting on the experience, Tromp noted that she was taken aback by the video’s popularity. She revealed to NBC 5 that she first learned of the viral sensation during a doctor’s appointment when a nurse informed her of the clip’s success. Tromp jokingly mentioned that even her son had reached out to discuss the incident, highlighting the endearing connection the event created.

Tromp believes that this encounter exemplifies the caring and supportive community that UVM fosters. She remarked on the unique environment the university provides, where students actively support one another. “It’s a community where students look out for each other; I think students get something really special here,” she explained.

Lapier expressed her appreciation for the president’s involvement, emphasising that Tromp’s actions reflect the compassionate culture present on campus. “I think UVM cares a lot, and having a president that would do that for you is sort of a reflection of our culture,” she shared, highlighting the positive student experiences at the university.

This amusing incident serves as a reminder of the strong community bonds within the University of Vermont, illustrating how even senior figures like President Tromp are willing to connect with students in personal and engaging ways. It is an entertaining exchange that not only brought a smile to Lapier but also united the campus in spirit, further solidifying the relationships that underpin university life.

As social media continues to play a role in shaping public perception, this lighthearted event demonstrates how a little humour and humanity can leave a significant impact, creating cherished memories and fostering a sense of belonging in educational institutions.