Utah Tech University

Utah Tech University Alumni Association recently honored eleven exemplary bachelor's degree graduates with the presitigous Elite 11 Award. Honorees were selected for excelling in academics as well as University and community involvment. The number 11 in the name Elite 11, connects back to the university's founding 1911, tying the award to a long standing tradition. These eleven graduates have made an unforgettable impact at the University. To qualify for Elite 11, students must demonstrate involvement, earn academic achievements, maintain a GPA of 3.65 or higher and be graduating with a bachelors degree.

Cheever, the owner of Hooray! Engraving Shoppe is a St. George local and will be graduating in May of 2026 with a bachelor's degree in graphic design and a minor in art. Outside of her academics, Cheever loves creating, especially arts and crafts like crocheting. This year, she took her passion for creation and translated it into her business. She has officially been running the business since January. In the beginning, balancing the business along with her course load at Utah Tech was difficult. All of Cheever's current employees are Utah Tech students. She's even working with professors in the graphic design department to offer an internship to a student over the summer, and is hoping to create more internship opportunities for future students. Cheever attributes a lot of Hooray! The Engraving Shoppe's success to the things she learned at Utah Tech, both in her academics in the graphic design program, and her work experience in the Makerspace at Atwood Innovation Plaza.

Utah Tech Ballroom students put on a show at the Eccles Fine Arts Building Main Stage last week, performing their entertaining show "MOTION!" Through hard work, the stage came to life in a way that blended traditional ballroom styles with innovative choreography. From elegant waltzes to high-energy Latin numbers, "MOTION!" highlighted both the diversity of ballroom dancer and their passion. Throughout the academic year, these student performers have committed hours upon hours perfecting their technique, artistry, and performaces skills. "MOTION!" is the culmination of months of this rigorous training, creativity, collaboration.

This March, FUSION and Blaze Dance Team traveled to Spain to perform on the Utah Tech Entertainment Alliance Recruiting Tour. From March 4-13, students had the opportunity to go to different facilities and schools across Spain's capital city, Madrid. Showcasing Utah Tech, the goal of the trip was to inspire the community as well as recruit potential students through nine total performances which took place across different high schools, elementary schools, and community centers. These highly rehearsed performances not only let the audience know what UTEA does, but these musical numbers reminded people that they are not alone, and they matter.

Utah Tech University FUSION students who took the Eccles Fine Arts Center Mainstage on March 27 and 28 to perform this year's spring finale. With this show's theme being "Back to Broadway," students perfromed songs from beloved musicals such as Wicked, Hamilton, and The Great Gatsby. With six freshmen, six sophomores, and one junior making up FUSION, a variety of talent comes to life on the stage through their musical and theatrical skills. The training is rigorous, with students rehearsing Monday through Firday for hours on end, perfecting each number.

Creating an inclusive prom experience for individuals with disabilities across the community, Utah Tech University's Accessibility and Disability Center hosted Prom of Possibilities in partnership with the Student Accessibility Board on campus last weekend. Prom of Possibilities sprung from an idea by Olivia Wolff, the head student officer for the Student Accessibility Board. Over 150 people attended the event, which featured everything from a live DJ and red carpet to a Chill Zone, an area where overstimulated participants could take a moment to regulate themselves. This quieter area had earplugs, candies, fidget toys and sunglasses as a way to help people calm down.

Utah Tech students are leaving their mark on the St. George community, one brushstroke at a time. As part of a larger regional initiative known as the Canyon to Canyon Mural Project, students are contributing to a vibrant visual experience that will connect Snow Canyon to Zion National Park through a series of murals placed along a developing bike path. The project features 20 individual panels, each representing a different segment of the trail and telling a unique story of the surrounding landscape. Utah Tech's student design team was selected to create the panel representing the university's section of the path, located near Riverside Drive behind a local business complex. The mural, measuring roughly 18 feet wide and 7 feet tall, incorporates bold blocks of color and imagery inspired by the natural environment, including animals commonly found along the trail. The project is being completed through Utah Tech's Studio Node, a student-run design and development studio that provides hands-on, real-world experience. Students involved in the studio operate as paid junior designers, working with clients, meeting deadlines and collaborating on professional-level projects. The design process for the mural was highly collaborative. Students began by brainstorming and sketching ideas together, experimenting with different concepts before narrowing down key elements. At one point, the team even used virtual reality technology to visualize their design on a full-scale wall. After finalizing the concept, the team projected the design onto the wall to create an outline, preparing them for the painting phase.

The Utah Tech University cheer and stunt team took home a back-to-back national titles for band chant and a third-place finish for their show cheer routine. The team traveled to Anaheim, California to compete in the United Spirit Association's Collegiate Championships, bringing two routines to the two-day competition. The small coed team competed in the band chant division and the show cheer division.

Utah Tech University recently announced its new student body leaders for the upcoming academic year. Each student leader works to gain student feedback, support the Utah Tech Student Association, engage volunteers and build traditions on campus. Each of these positions is elected by student voting. The newly appointed students are as follows: Beau Kendrick - Student Body President Maya Christopherson - Vice President of Academics Lily Leggat - Vice President of Clubs & Organizations These students will work together to make campus a more connected, engaging and student-focused environment. "I want to be a leader who is actively learning and taking the time to hear feedback and apply it," Kendrick said. "I'm also excited to help bridge the gap between campus and the local community and continue building St. George into true Trailblazer territory." For more information about the UTSA President's Cabinet, visit utahtech.edu/utsa/prescab/.

Utah Tech University's Institute of Politics chose three students to represent the University at the Utah State Legislature from late January to early March this year. The students participated in a competitive application process which included recommendation letters, transcripts, interviews, writing samples and cover letters. Although this process might seem daunting, these students were more than just qualified - they were passionate for this new experience and for what they would be contributing to their community. A few of the responsibilities of this internship include running schedules and constituent services, assisting in legislative tracking, as well as markup and negotiation for a bill. These students are able to develop relationships with key state leaders and those close to elected officials. They are able to gain hands-on experience with the political system and witness the behind-the-scenes aspects of the work. At the conclusion of the internship, the UT students will be more qualified to seek careers while building off their newly acquired set of skills.

The Dental Hygiene program at Utah Tech University provided comprehensive oral healthcare services at no cost during their annual Children's Dental Health Day on January 31. Under faculty supervision, UT students delivered dental hygiene therapies, radiographs, fluoride treatments and sealants to children, helping address critical oral health needs in the community. Participating students gained invaluable clinical experience while providing essential preventative services to 47 children, helping reduce dental disease and promoting lifelong oral health. This event exemplifies Utah Tech's commitment to community-engaged learning and demonstrates how UT programs contribute to both educational excellence and community well-being.

Students at Utah Tech University in the fall 2025 semester demonstrated remarkable academic talent, with 951 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. "Congratulations to our outstanding students whose dedication and sustained effort have earned them a place on the honor roll," said Dr. Chris Guymon, interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. "Their achievements reflect Utah Tech's commitment to 'active learning. active life.' -- where students learn by doing, apply knowledge in real-world contexts and prepare for meaningful careers and lives of purpose. We are proud of the perseverance, adaptability and resilience our students demonstrate as members of our polytechnic community." Over the past ten years, Utah Tech University has experienced tremendous growth and now offers nearly 300 academic programs. Known for its affordability, it ranks among the most cost-effective universities in the Western U.S. and emphasizes hands-on education that encourages students to thrive both professionally and personally.

Students at Utah Tech University showcased exceptional academic performance during the spring 2025 semester, with 1,071 students earning Dean's List honors. To qualify, students had to earn a 3.5 to 3.89 GPA and complete at least 15 credits. "Congratulations to our outstanding students whose dedication and sustained effort have earned them a place on the honor roll," said Dr. Chris Guymon, interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. "Their achievements reflect Utah Tech's commitment to 'active learning. active life.' - where students learn by doing, apply knowledge in real-world contexts and prepare for meaningful careers and lives of purpose. We are proud of the perseverance, adaptability and resilience our students demonstrate as members of our polytechnic community." Over the past ten years, Utah Tech University has experienced tremendous growth and now offers nearly 300 academic programs. Known for its affordability, it ranks among the most cost-effective universities in the Western U.S. and emphasizes hands-on education that encourages students to thrive both professionally and personally.

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.

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

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.

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 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 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 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."

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