Utah Tech University

The Utah Tech University course Design for Additive Manufacturing has a unique approach to finals week. Students spend the semester designing, manufacturing and producing rings fit for a wedding. They also create ring boxes to accompany their rings. After all the work is said and done, professor David Christensen invites members of campus and local jewelers to judge the designs, with a catch. Any student whose designs were judged higher than Christensen's would get extra credit in the course.

Each semester, Utah Tech University honors several students to be recognized for their academic pursuits, involvement, and attitude toward their educational careers. Each student is nominated for the award by their peers, professors, or staff on campus. Nominations are sent to the department chairs, who then pick the winner for their department. Students of the Semester must have a 3.5+ GPA, demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities, and be career-ready.

Through a collaborative effort to benefit children in the community, Utah Tech University held its seventh annual Go Baby Go event on Saturday, Dec. 6. Utah Tech's Physical Therapist Assistant Program offers mobility and independence to young children with disabilities through the Go Baby Go Program. This year, they served a record-breaking 11 children with customized toy cars. "This program is really important for the families of these children because they don't always realize how much the community cares about them," Burke Jorgensen, assistant professor of physical therapy, said. "I think we need more of these of events because there are so many generous people in this community and they just don't know how to help. We all love these kids and the families can see it at this event." Through this hands-on learning project, students adapt toy cars to function as powered wheelchairs and then teach local children in need how to use them, making a difference in their lives for years to come.

Recently, more than 20 Utah Tech University students traveled to Salt Lake City to participate in the annual 47G Summit. 47G is an organization dedicated to building Utah's aerospace, defense and cyber ecosystems. The 47G Summit is a multi-day conference that brings together innovators, policymakers, industry leaders and entrepreneurs. This year's conference was held at the Salt Palace Convention Center and featured panels and speakers focusing on Utah's role in global innovation.

The Utah Tech University club pickleball team recently made history as the first Collegiate World Champions. In an event hosted by the Professional Pickleball Association and Adidas, Utah Tech stood among other student-athletes from across the globe for a three-day championship held in Dallas, Texas, to determine the winners. The following athletes competed at the tournament to bring home the championship title.

Utah Tech University freshman golfer, David Liechty, was the first player in program history to receive a PGA Tour exemption. Liechty played alongside the pros on Thursday and Friday of the competition, totaling four birdies over the two days on the course. Men's golf coach Brad Sutterfield explained how Liechty's competitive record and reputation within amateur golf earned him the opportunity to play in the PGA Tour. Over the summer, Liechty reached the finals of the Utah State Amateur competition, proving his ability to compete at a high level.

Created by Utah Tech University students and faculty, the film Waves recently won best short film at the Vienna Independent Film Festival. The film was written and directed by Utah Tech assistant professor Hans Glasmann and brought to life by a team of Utah Tech students. Following the grief journey of a man who is dealing with a family loss, Waves is a narrative short film that showcases an important conversation about mental health as well as political issues.

Utah Tech University students demonstrated remarkable academic talent in the summer 2025 semester, earning a spot on Utah Tech University's President's List. To qualify for the President's List, students had to attain a semester GPA of 3.9 or higher and complete at least 15 credits. "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every student who has earned a place on the President's or Dean's List," Dr. Michael Lacourse, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Utah Tech University, said. "Your dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of excellence exemplify the very best of Utah Tech. It is inspiring to see you embrace your opportunities, achieve meaningful academic success, and contribute to the strength and spirit of our university community." These achievements underscore the university's commitment to empowering students to succeed in both their studies and future careers. Over the past ten years, Utah Tech University has experienced tremendous growth and now offers 300 academic programs. Known for its affordability, it ranks among the most cost-effective universities in the Western U.S. With an "active learning. active life." approach to education, Utah Tech emphasizes hands-on learning that encourages students to thrive both professionally and personally.

Utah Tech University senior Katie Walker won the annual Utah Tech Homecoming royalty last week alongside four runner-ups - Ella Cox, Olivia Wolff, Sydney Healy, and Analee Hall. The competition was held on Oct. 21 as a part of the 2025 Utah Tech Homecoming week. The students participated in a comprehensive competition with scores from a private interview, fitness, talent, evening wear and an onstage question. Contestants prepared for a month to show off their talents, poise and hard work. A few of the talent portions included dancing, poetry, instruments and more. Following Katie Walker as the winner, each runner-up was awarded as follows: 1st Runner up - Ella Cox 2nd Runner up - Olivia Wolff 3rd Runner up - Sydney Healy 4th Runner up - Analee Hall

Students at Utah Tech University in the Summer 2025 semester demonstrated remarkable academic talent, earning a spot on Utah Tech University's honor roll. To qualify for the Dean's List, students had to attain a semester GPA between 3.5 and 3.89 and complete at least 15 credits. "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every student who has earned a place on the President's or Dean's List," Dr. Michael Lacourse, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Utah Tech University, said. "Your dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of excellence exemplify the very best of Utah Tech. It is inspiring to see you embrace your opportunities, achieve meaningful academic success, and contribute to the strength and spirit of our university community." These achievements underscore the university's commitment to empowering students to succeed in both their studies and future careers.

Sixteen-year-old Utah Tech student Mary Monson competed at the Pickleball English Open as one of the youngest athletes to play for both the high school and college level, reaching the quarter finals in doubles and mixed doubles. Monson competes at both a pro and collegiate level, representing Utah Tech University's pickleball team as a 16-year-old. Mary said that her competitive drive and determination pushes her to compete at high levels. While juggling the training schedule of a high-level athlete, Mary is a concurrent enrollment student taking both high school and college classes, all while still finding time to have a part-time job. Mary hopes to continue her pickleball career and has her eyes set on Collegiate National Championship title with Utah Tech, a pro medal, and to play in Major League Pickleball.

Anna McArthur, a freshman at Utah Tech University, showed her trailblazer spirit both on and off campus this summer. Anna advanced to the semifinals of NBC's American Ninja Warrior, one of the most physically demanding and competitive obstacle course shows in the country.

Utah Tech University flute player Jarom Brown performed with the National Intercollegiate Band in Lexington, Kentucky. The band was directed by Jason Fettig, former director of "The President's Own" United States Marine Band. The audition process consisted of recording two excerpts, one of which was more technical and the other was a chromatic scale.

Utah Tech University was one of only eight universities nationwide selected to receive a competitive $50,000 grant to support a ten-week internship experience with the Kennedy Space Center.

Seven Utah Tech University art students represented Utah Tech's art department for two days at this year's St. George Art Festival. These students were juried into the festival, showing that they had over 15 marketable works of art that could be sold to the local St. George population.

Utah Tech University nursing students spent 14 days at SGT University in India, where they engaged in academic lectures, hospital shadowing, simulation labs and cultural activities. The experience fostered global competence, interprofessional learning and insight into international healthcare systems.

During Utah Tech University's 114th Commencement Ceremonies, Music Department students conducted the Utah Tech Symphonic Band for the prelude and recessional music. Dr. Bryant Smith gave his students the option to conduct the band for their final exam. Each was given the music three weeks before the performance. They studied the music, prepared and conducted the band in two rehearsals and then performed during the ceremony.

Students at Utah Tech University in the spring 2025 semester demonstrated remarkable academic talent, with 854 students earning President's List honors. To qualify, students had to attain a semester GPA of 3.9 or higher and complete at least 15 credits. "I offer my sincere congratulations to all the students who have earned a place on the president's or dean's list," Dr. Michael Lacourse, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Utah Tech, said. "Their dedication, hard work, and pursuit of excellence exemplify the best of Utah Tech University. It is deeply rewarding to see our students making the most of their opportunities and achieving such meaningful academic success. Their accomplishments reflect the perseverance and resilience that define our academic community."

Utah Tech University honored eleven students for being outstanding seniors at the Elite 11 ceremony on April 22. All students working toward their bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.65 or higher were invited to apply, demonstrating academic excellence, campus involvement and community service through a written application. Each honoree received a medallion to wear at commencement, a letter of commendation from the university president and a celebratory dinner. Formally known as the Dixie 11 Award, the Elite 11 Award was established in 2014 and is coordinated by the Utah Tech Alumni Ambassadors and Alumni Association Board. This year's recipients join a distinguished group of over 100 past awardees.

Utah Tech University celebrated the 2025 graduating class of 3,088 students at its 114th Commencement ceremonies this week. To accommodate friends and family of the growing collective body of UT graduates, four commencement ceremonies were held on May 1 and 2 in the M. Burns Arena on Utah Tech's campus. With 3,088 individual graduates and 3,547 total degrees and certificates awarded, the 2025 class stands as a testament to the university's commitment to hands-on learning, innovation and student success. "Today, we celebrate not just a milestone in our graduates' academic journeys, but the pioneering spirit of resilience, innovation and purpose that defines Utah Tech University," University President Shane B. Smeed said. "I am confident these graduates are well prepared to enter the workforce and make a difference in their industries and communities."

Students at Utah Tech University showcased exceptional academic performance during the spring 2025 semester, with 1,021 students earning Dean's List honors.To qualify, students had to attain a 3.5 to 3.89 GPA and complete at least 15 credits. "I offer my sincere congratulations to all the students who have earned a place on the president's or dean's list," Dr. Michael Lacourse, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Utah Tech, said. "Their dedication, hard work, and pursuit of excellence exemplify the best of Utah Tech University. It is deeply rewarding to see our students making the most of their opportunities and achieving such meaningful academic success. Their accomplishments reflect the perseverance and resilience that define our academic community."

Utah Tech University hosts a research symposium every year titled the Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation and Creativity. This year, Utah Tech was proud to feature 140 presentations with over 300 presenters, including 39 oral talks and 101 posters. The symposium grows by at least five to ten presentations every year, reflecting the growth and progress Utah Tech achieves annually.

Utah Tech University celebrated the achievements of 19 cadets in its Peace Officer Standards and Training Academy at a graduation ceremony hosted on Saturday. The cadets graduated in the Law Enforcement Officer class after several months of training, including having completed the Special Function Officer training previously. The Special Function Officer training took the cadets roughly 14 to 16 weeks to complete, with a rigorous training schedule Monday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. After completing the SFO training, the cadets were given a few weeks off before beginning their Law Enforcement Officer training, which followed the same schedule for another 16 weeks.

24 Utah Tech University students were recently recognized as finalists for the Elite 11 Award. The Elite 11 Award was introduced by the Utah Tech University Alumni Association just over a decade ago, honoring 11 bachelor's degree graduates who have excelled in academia, university, and community involvement. While only 11 students are chosen for the Elite 11, all 24 finalists are recognized for their achievements as Choice Award recipients.

In a display of academic excellence and leadership across diverse disciplines, Utah Tech University has selected seven valedictorians for the class of 2025. Each selected student has demonstrated exceptional academic achievements and dedication to their field. This year, the university chose one student to represent each college as valedictorian. In years past, there has been one student to represent the entire university. Now, with multiple ceremonies being held for the university's 114th Commencement, more exceptional students get to be recognized for their hard work. The following students were announced as Utah Tech University's 2025 valedictorians. - Evan Thomas, College of Health Sciences - Rachel Krupnek, College of Science, Engineering, & Technology - Victoria R. Wallentine, University College - Teancom Denevan, College of Business - Emma Mancuso, College of Humanities and Social Sciences - Kensington Owens, College of the Arts - Jordan Boyce, College of Education

In a display of excellence in a number of areas, several Utah Tech University students were recognized at Utah Tech's annual Trailblazer Awards event this week. As part of the university's annual D-Week celebration, Trailblazer Awards was held on Thursday at the Eccles Mainstage Theatre on campus to honor those who have helped shape Utah Tech's legacy and recognize their accomplishments. Students honored have displayed dedication in a variety of different areas, like serving the community, being actively involved on and off campus, showing commitment to a club, persevering and overcoming obstacles, demonstrating extraordinary talent or having a unique character, personality, and enthusiasm that contributes to the Trailblazer spirit.

Utah Tech University has awarded this year's Trailblazer Royalty, including the Trailblazer Queen, as well as First, Second, Third and Fourth Attendants. The pageant consisted of four sections: opening number, talent, evening wear, and onstage question. Lastly, there was a contestant parade. Not only did the women compete for their royalty spot at the pageant, but they were also interviewed the morning of the event. The contestants were judged based on their Service & Involvement Resumes and their essays. Their GPAs are also taken into consideration. All of these items are included with the scores that they are given during the pageant. Contestants had to undergo multiple weeks of training which included interviewing and learning how to answer questions on stage. This training not only helps them become a part of the Trailblazer Queen royalty, but also prepares them for life outside of Utah Tech including job interviews, improving public speaking abilities and building overall confidence.

Spring break isn't always beaches, cruises, and taking a week off - for Utah Tech University's Fusion team, spring break was a great opportunity to share messages of hope, kindness, anti-bullying, and suicide awareness to schools in Las Vegas and New York City. "I can't say enough about how hard these kids have worked," Amy Gleave, director of Entertainment Alliance at Utah Tech, said. "I think we're going places it's more than just singing and dancing. We're building good humans over here."

Utah Tech University has four teams of entrepreneurial students developing companies as part of the Sandbox program, and are pitching to potential investors to support their tech company startup. The program allows students with an entrepreneurial tech startup idea to dedicate one year to developing their business under the guidance of experienced mentors and industry leaders. The companies created by UT students as part of the Sandbox program include: - Vessium, an AI based workflow generator to help with databases - Furnace, an AI-powered platform that emails potential sales prospects - LazyRep, a door-to-door pest control sales took to identify and knock on more doors - FieldReport.io, a field report automation for utility pole maintenance

Michael Orr, a student in Utah Tech University's Applied and Computational Mathematics program, recently represented Utah Tech at the Council on Undergraduate Scholars Transforming Through Research Program in Washington, D.C.. Sixty institutional teams across the nation were selected for this competitive application-based opportunity. There were 142 undergraduate researchers and Utah Tech was one of the two Utah schools chosen to attend. Attendees developed their communication and advocacy skills by engaging in meaningful discussions with Utah representatives and senate correspondents, where they emphasized the critical importance of funding and accessibility for undergraduate research.