DSU Magazine Fall 2018

magazine DIXIE STATE UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE | FALL 2018

A Million Views for A Million Dreams

DSU Magazine - Fall 2018

Editor-in-Chief Jyl Hall

Art Director Scott Garrett, ’15

Illustration & Design Valerie De La O Scott Garrett, ’15 Sadie Kroll Derrick LeMaster Tori Lewis Mylee Macdonald Adriana Morgan

Photography Scott Garrett, ’15 Bryce Parker Stan Plewe

Writers Rhiannon Bent Justin Giles Erin Hakoda Jyl Hall Chase Hansen Taylor Lewis Dr. Jordon Sharp

Copy Editors Megan Church, ’15 Kayla Coolbear, ’16 Erin Hakoda Jyl Hall Chase Hansen Taylor Lewis Dr. Jordon Sharp Marilyn Lamoreaux Deborah Millet, ’75

Feedback jylhall@dixie.edu 435-652-7547

To Update Contact Information alumni.dixie.edu/update-your-records

18 ON THE COVER

Cover Photo: Scott Garrett, ’15

A Million Views for a Million Dreams The Dixie State community comes together to produce a beautiful music video featuring YouTube sensation Alex Boyé and the University’s “active learning. active life.” experience.

DEPARTMENTS 2 DSU in the News 4 President’s Message 10 Hot on the Trail 17 active learning. active life.

37 Alumni Message

TABLE OF TITLE CONTENTS HERE

FEATURES 6 Active Learning Through Active Service Spanish students gain real-world experience in their field by translating between patients and physical therapists in Mexico and Peru.

9 Museum-Worthy Masterpiece Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, Sears Art Museum adds a rare casting of Michelangelo’s Pietà to its permanent collection.

14 Bringing Innovation to Dixie Lindsay and Laura Atwood share their passion for entrepreneurship by contributing to Atwood Innovation Plaza and the initiatives it houses.

24 And The Winner Is ...

Outstanding faculty and staff members earn recognition for carrying out exceptional work in their respective fields.

26 The Future of Tech DSU offers STEM-focused programs to prepare youth to eventually fill the tech sector’s immense need for quality coders, programmers, and engineers.

30 Committed to Excellence Recipients of DSU’s Faculty Awards display unprecedented dedication to their students and colleagues.

32 From Center Court to Classroom Men’s basketball center Austin Montgomery excels both on the court and in the classroom as a bioinformatics major and Stanford research intern.

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36 A Lasting Legacy Alumnus and longtime supporter Sidney Atkin is remembered for his generosity that changed the course of Dixie’s future.

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32 #activelearningactivelife • www.dixie.edu •

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DSU IN THE NEWS U.S. News Ranks DSU on Lists of Best Colleges Across the Nation For the first time in the institution’s history, Dixie State has been ranked on U.S. News’ lists of the nation’s best colleges and universities. DSU made the 2019 list for its strong performance in 15 different areas of academic excellence.

Dixie State ranked 26th in the Regional Colleges West category, a division the university was placed in for focusing on undergraduate degrees and offering academic programs beyond liberal arts disciplines.

More specifically, DSU finished 7th among public schools in the Regional Colleges West category. U.S. News divided 1,800 regionally accredited institutions into 10 different categories to produce 10 independent rankings.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to expand and improve the academic offerings and student-life experience at Dixie State University, and we have done so at an unprecedented rate,” President Richard “Biff” Williams says. “To be ranked the highest among all state colleges in any category for our state is the direct result of this combined effort, and we could not be more pleased.”

To rank the institutions within each category, U.S. News looked at a variety of standards such as retention, graduation rates, student excellence, assessments from peer institutions’ administrators, faculty strength, and alumni giving.

Ceremony Celebrates Completion of East Grandstand Marking the start of the 2018 Trailblazer home football season, Dixie State University showed off Trailblazer Stadium’s new east grandstand during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at halftime of the Chartway Classic Kickoff Game in September.

The new grandstand, which can seat 4,909 people, houses locker rooms for officials and four visiting teams, restrooms, concessions, ticketing, and athletic training facilities. The stadium’s increased capacity enables it to become southern Utah’s premier hub for large-scale athletic, public, and civic activities.

The next and final phase of the stadium renovation, for which programming is underway and sponsors are being sought, is an extensive remodel of the facility’s west-side grandstand. The updated grandstand will include new locker rooms for DSU student-athletes, offices for coaching

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• Dixie State University Magazine • Fall 2018

staff, improved space for athletic training, a new press box, expanded restrooms, box suites, an updated ticketing office, and a more inviting front entrance.

The first phase of the project, which included resurfacing and widening the track and updating the field, was completed during the summer of 2017.

DSU IN THE NEWS

Students Place in National, International Competitions After excelling in state competitions, two Dixie State students went on to represent the University as finalists at national and international conferences.

Kyler Kelsch, a member of DSU’s chapter of SkillsUSA, won gold in the College-Level Screen-Printing Technology category at the 54th Annual National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, this summer. Kelsch qualified for the national conference, in which 16,000 students, teachers, and business partners participated, after winning gold at the state competition.

SkillsUSA empowers students to become world-class leaders and responsible citizens. With a mission to improve the quality of the nation’s future workforce, the organization helps students develop personal, workplace, and technical skills.

As part of the competition in Washington, D.C., Harris was given a real-world business case and had 30 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to present his analysis and recommendations to a panel of industry-expert judges. Additionally, to secure his place in the top 10, Harris took a one-hour marketing exam.

Competing against students from 34 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, and China, Mason Harris was a top-10 finalist in the Sales Management Meeting category at the Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference.

“Dixie DECA students continue to dominate in state and national business competitions, despite being from a comparatively smaller school,” Matthew Harris, Dixie State DECA advisor, says.

“It just shows the caliber of students we have at DSU.”

Department of Education Opens Flexible Pathway Program Offering community members a more versatile option for acquiring teaching licensure, the Department of Education began offering its Elementary Education Flexible Pathway Program this fall.

The Flexible Pathway Program leads to a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, K-6 license, and ESL endorsement and offers a schedule of evening courses.

Perfect for students who aren’t able to attend class during the day, the program offers the same high-quality teacher preparation training as the department has always delivered, but doesn’t require students to be enrolled in classes full time.

“We are hoping this program will attract teacher aides in the school district who have years of experience in schools but need to work during the day to provide for their families,” Advisor for Elementary & Early Childhood Education Emily Sharp says. “There is a need for qualified teachers across the nation, and our program prepares students to be excellent teachers.”

Sorenson Communications Donates to Interpreting Program The American Sign Language Interpreting program recently established a new scholarship and created a computer lab equipped with the specialized equipment necessary for interpreting training, thanks to a donation from Sorenson Communications.

The Sorenson Communications Sign Language Interpreter Scholarship, in honor of Ron Burdett, will be awarded to students to cover the costs associated with taking the Utah Interpreter Program Knowledge and Novice Performance exams.

“Students will see this scholarship as a reward for their hard work, and it will provide encouragement for their continued success,” ASL Program Coordinator Dr. Allyson Hamilton says.

The funds donated by Sorenson Communications, a provider and developer of products and services for the deaf and hard of hearing, were also used to develop a new computer lab.

The lab, consisting of six computers equipped with DVD players and cameras, will allow students to watch ASL demonstrations and record themselves interpreting as part of their assigned requirements. #activelearningactivelife • www.dixie.edu •

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

T R A I L B L A Z E R N AT I O N History was made this fall when Dixie State University opened our first-ever graduate program, a Master of Accountancy. This monumental addition has been a long time coming for Dixie.

Ever since we opened our doors in 1911, attained approval for our first bachelor’s degrees in 1999, and secured university status in 2013, we have been committed to expanding the educational opportunities available to our students.

This program will change the trajectory of individual students’ lives by offering unprecedented opportunities and bolstering the economic landscape of Southern Utah. In addition to allowing students to stay right here in Washington County as they fulfill the educational needs necessary to work as tax and accounting professionals, the program localizes training and resources for those already meeting industry needs in the community. Plus, graduate assistant positions allow students to serve as program ambassadors or assist with faculty research.

Filled to capacity with 25 registered students, the need for this program was made evident by the fact that 60 students applied.

The addition of the Master of Accountancy degree puts us one step closer to accomplishing our strategic goal to establish three graduate programs by Fall 2020. In fact, a Master of Arts in Technical Writing and Digital Rhetoric and a Master in Athletic Training currently are going through the approval process and proposals for a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Master of Science in Applied Kinesiology, and a Master in Genetic Counseling are in development.

Starting this semester, our undergraduate students also have a wider array of fields of study from which to choose, as the University began offering a Bachelor of Music in Performance, a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, and a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing. These additions bring Dixie State’s four-year degree offerings up to 43 distinctive majors.

The addition of all four new programs helps Dixie State University meet the needs of our students and community at large, an accomplishment of which we are incredibly proud. Helping students meet their educational goals and preparing them to fill the region’s workforce needs truly make every day a great day to be a Trailblazer.

Dr. Richard B. Williams President of Dixie State University

HOMECOMING 2018 OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

OCTOBER

MONDAY29 TUESDAY30 THURSDAY 1 Classic Car Show & Trunk-or-Treat

6 – 8 p.m.

Innovation Plaza Lawn

Miss Dixie State University

Trailblazer 5k

7:30 p.m.

Cox Performing Arts Center $10 General Admission $5 with Student ID

7 p.m., Trailblazer Stadium Check-in begins at 6 p.m.

Register at dixie.edu/5k

NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER

FRIDAY2 SATURDAY3 Forever Dixie: Then & Now Homecoming Assembly

Homecoming Parade

Classes of ’75-’85 Lunch & Mingle

Trailblazer Tailgate

10 a.m., Eccles Concert Hall

11:30 a.m., O.C. Tanner Fountain Bring your own lunch

Golden Generation Luncheon & Induction of the Class of ’68 Noon, Wade Alumni House

10 a.m., 900 East to Main Street on Tabernacle Street 11 a.m., Wade Alumni House

Homecoming Football Game vs. Colorado School of Mines

1 p.m., Trailblazer Stadium $9 general admission, $12 reserved seats Free with student ID

Alumni Banquet & Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Graduates of ’75–’85 Reunion Dinner

Volleyball Game vs. Westminster

Drive-In Movie

6 p.m., Gardner Center Ballroom $18, visit dixie.edu/banquet or call 435.879.4400 6 p.m., Student Activities Center Senior Day

Homecoming Concert by Daya 8:30 p.m., Burns Arena Get tickets at dsutix.com

6 p.m., Zion Room Fifth Floor of Holland Centennial Commons $15 Doors open at 6 p.m., the movie begins at dusk, Ridge Top Complex 620 S. Tech Ridge Dr.

dixie.edu/homecoming #activelearningactivelife • www.dixie.edu •

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TRANSLATING ACROSS BORDERS

Story by Erin Hakoda | Design by Tori Lewis

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CHIMBOTE NORTHERN PERU

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• Dixie State University Magazine • Fall 2018

Pamela Fernandez grew up in Yuma, Arizona, hearing stories about the poor quality of healthcare her parents received while living in Mexico. With her parents’ tales and a desire to make a change stowed away in her heart, she enrolled at Dixie State University to study nursing and minor in both Spanish and health communication.

In January of this year, Fernandez put her studies to good use when she and another DSU student, Camila Arévalo, traveled to Yucatan, Mexico, to help individuals with severe medical problems and disabilities. Serving as translators between patients and English-speaking physical therapy students, the DSU students tended to those who have suffered years of neglect as a result of Mexico’s underfunded universal healthcare.

The students’ experience of serving at Unidad Básica de Rehabilitación, a community rehabilitation facility, was made possible by a partnership between Wheeling Jesuit University and Dixie State’s Spanish Department.

Physical therapy students from the private university in West Virginia offered treatments while DSU students provided translation services and Spanish lessons to the medical providers.

As part of the partnership, in which Wheeling Jesuit covers all travel expenses, Dixie State students have the opportunity to travel to Mexico in January or Peru in May. DSU has participated in this partnership since 2017, offering students the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations and put their bilingualism to the test.

“Translating is no easy feat; it forces you to push both English and Spanishspeaking parts of your brain to their limits,” explains Dr. Luis Arévalo, director of Global Education and an assistant professor of Spanish at Dixie State. “Regardless of what career path you choose, being bilingual is an invaluable skill that makes you more employable.”

In fact, fluency in more than one language can present increased career opportunities, and those who know a second language can earn anywhere between $5,000 and $10,000 more a year than their monolingual peers. The students who go on these service trips, Arévalo says, are even more employable and likely to get in to graduate school, thanks to their experience of spending more than 90 hours translating in high-stress situations.

“At Dixie State, we offer programs where Spanish students translate for dental hygiene clinics and are given the opportunity to work with local clinics, so the students we take to Mexico are already very well trained through active learning experiences,” Arévalo adds. “However, what they do and learn on the service trip is extremely intense. They are translating for three to five different physical therapists, keeping track of all their patients’ medical records in both English and Spanish, and working with those patients for four hours straight each day.

By the end of the 10 days, the process of translating just becomes second nature to them. This type of experience is something you can’t get anywhere else.”

Not only do the DSU students translate physical therapy sessions, they also teach the physical therapy students Spanish translations of medical terms. “We are pioneering this way of teaching language,” Arévalo expresses. “The physical therapy students we travel with come to Mexico without knowing a lick of Spanish and by the end of the 10 days, they are able to perform entire therapy procedures with real patients.” #activelearningactivelife • www.dixie.edu •

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ACTIVE SERVICE TRANSLATING ACROSS BORDERS By teaching others Spanish, students participating in these trips increase their own understanding of the language by reinforcing in their own minds the concepts they are teaching. Fernandez says she learned many skills while immersed in real-life situations and utilizes that knowledge in her daily responsibilities as a student and certified nursing assistant.

“Sometimes I’ll be sitting in a lecture, and I’ll think back to the trip and remember how I actually applied that material,” she recounts. “Having the hands-on experience really helps me grasp what I’m still learning in the classroom even better.”

Fernandez wants to continue to provide healthcare in Spanish here in the U.S. so she can serve a range of people. She says the service trip reminded her why she chose to go down this career path.

“Seeing how I was able to help people and really make a difference in their lives definitely inspired me to keep going with my education and achieve my goals,” she shares. “The experience I had in Mexico was incredibly humbling. It really opened my eyes to how fortunate we are to have the care and resources we do here in the United States.”

GET INVOLVED The Spanish interpretation service trips will continue in 2019. Interested students may contact Dr. Luis Arévalo, DSU director of Global Education and assistant professor of Spanish, at arevalo@dixie. edu to apply. Students must be fluent in English and Spanish, have knowledge of medical terminology, and have experience in translating and interpreting.

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• Dixie State University Magazine • Fall 2018

SEARS ART MUSEUM

MUSEUM-WORTHY MASTERPIECE Sears Art Museum Adds Rare Casting of Michelangelo’s Pietà to its Permanent Collection Story by Erin Hakoda | Design by Sadie Kroll As the afternoon light casts a shadow from over the red rocks into the Dixie State University Sears Art Museum, one piece of art stands out among the rest: an exact casting of Michelangelo’s Pietà.

Thanks to a generous contribution from an anonymous donor, Dixie State received the 14th of 100 rare marble castings being distributed around the globe. The work of art, part of Arte Divine’s mission to bring the Pietà to the world, was created from a mold derived from the original sculpture. This process ensures that all castings are accurate and precise reproductions of Michelangelo’s inspired work. The masterpiece opened to the public this spring and remains on exhibit year-round as part of the museum’s permanent collection.

“We are thrilled to have such a beautiful piece of art on the Dixie campus; it is truly breathtaking,” Vice President of University Advancement Brad Last expresses. “The generosity of the donor is humbling, and we simply can’t thank them enough. We are so grateful they have entrusted us to display and care for this inspiring sculpture.”

The Pietà is widely viewed as the greatest work of sculpture ever created and balances the classical beauty of Italian High Renaissance with naturalism, according to Sears Art Museum Curator Kathy Cieslewicz. Michelangelo created the Pietà between 1498 and 1500, when he was in his early 20s, for Cardinal Jean de Bilhéres’ funerary chapel. Now on display in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, the sculpture became one of Michelangelo’s most successful works and helped launch his career.

“We are now able to view the Pietà in a very close and personal way, studying the delicate folds in Mary’s garments and her touchingly expressive face,” Cieslewicz says. “Think of all who will appreciate seeing this masterpiece, many who would never have otherwise had the opportunity to see it in St. Peter’s, and even then, only to view it from 30 feet away and behind bulletproof glass. Imagine realizing there is no greater love than that of a mother for her child and the epiphany of knowing the greatest thing one can do in the world is to love their children.”

The Sears Art Museum, located in the Dolores Doré Eccles Fine Arts Center on the DSU campus, is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission into the gallery is free.

“Generations of students, faculty, and members of our community will benefit from having this work accessible in our gallery,” College of the Arts Dean Dr. Jeffery Jarvis says. “It seems almost impossible to overstate its value to our University. We are so grateful for this gift.”

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HOT ON THE TRAIL

HOT ON THE TRAIL CATCHING UP WITH DIXIE ALUMNI Story by Chase Hansen Design by Valerie De La O

10 • Dixie State University Magazine • Fall 2018

Dustin Schofield, ’03 Partnered with his father, Rick, to run Schofield Wealth Management, alumnus Dustin Schofield enjoys helping his clients in St. George and across the nation achieve their financial visions every day. Having been a financial planner for the past 13 years, Schofield focuses on designing and implementing wealth management strategies.

When deciding where to go to college, Dixie was an obvious choice for Schofield because he wanted to stay close to his family. He also valued the small class sizes that gave him the opportunity to interact and network with his professors.

“I truly felt like they cared and wanted me to succeed,” he says. “As a result, I really enjoyed my time at Dixie.”

On top of serving his clients, Schofield is a member of the Executive Board for the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, president-elect of the St. George Exchange Club, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Southwest Symphony.

Recently, Schofield and his father extended their service and support to the University by contributing to Dixie State Athletics. Their donation helped create the Director’s Club — the new exclusive level of DSU’s booster club, the Trailblazer Club. The funds are going toward renovating the club suite in the M. Anthony Burns Arena and adding a club tent to Trailblazer Stadium until the final phase of the stadium renovation project is complete.

“Dixie State University has been a staple in our community for over 100 years, and we look forward to seeing its continued growth,” Schofield says. “We believe donating to the school is a way to give back, knowing that these current and future students will help pave the way to continued success in our community.”

HOT ON THE TRAIL

Tony Christensen, ’10 Since graduating magna cum laude from Dixie State with a bachelor’s degree in business and an emphasis in finance, Tony Christensen has been dedicated to building Statera Wealth Management with co-founding partner David Harris. The St. George company assists with retirement preparation, investment management, estate and philanthropy planning, and business solutions.

While at Dixie, Christensen participated in business competitions throughout the country and was awarded Student of the Year as a senior. Moreover, “I met my beautiful wife, made lifetime relationships, met my business partner, and started my business,” Christensen says. “My time at DSU set the stage for future opportunities that would come my way.”

Showing their appreciation for the impact Dixie made on their lives, Christensen and Harris sponsored the remodel of the newly named Financial Education Center — formerly the Boeing Auditorium — in the Ernö and Etel Udvar-Hazy School of Business building. The lecture hall, complete with stadium seating and floor-to-ceiling windows, will also act as a home base for educational workshops.

“It is a rare and sobering opportunity to name something that is lasting and impactful,” he says.

“I’m passionate about this donation because DSU has had a lasting impact on me from my home life to my business.”

In remodeling the Financial Education Center, Christensen hopes the facility will offer those who come after him the necessary assistance and inspiration to succeed. “I have always loved to learn and I believe that knowledge is power. As people are given tools, information, and resources, they can make a bigger impact on how they live life with greater confidence.”

Giving back to Dixie has ignited Christensen’s passion for the institution, something he encourages others to join him in. “Whatever your passion, determine how to be a bigger part of it,” he says.

“Dixie has so much to be a part of.”

#IWentToDixie • www.dixie.edu •

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HOT ON THE TRAIL

Brandon Staples, ’10 Husband-and-wife duo Brandon and Becky Staples are the co-owners of Sun American Mortgage in St. George, “which has been a dream of ours. We love that we get to help people meet their needs and the needs of their families as they finance homes here in this beautiful city,” Becky explains.

Together with their son and dog, they enjoy hiking the red rocks, running, backpacking, and fishing. Attending Dixie State fit their lifestyle, as Becky, a St. George native, and Brandon, a transplant from Mesa, Arizona, love St. George.

Brandon, who graduated with a bachelor’s in business, served as the student senator for the school of business while at Dixie. Meanwhile, Becky received her bachelor’s in business with an emphasis in finance and was the valedictorian of her graduating class.

The Staples laid the groundwork for the success they have experienced in everything from their

careers to their relationships while at Dixie. “I loved the professors and the relationships I made with other students,” Becky says. “The classes were small, and I felt like the professors knew me and cared about my success. Plus, we met the people who we still network with today.”

Recognizing DSU as the launching pad for their success, the Staples “love donating to Dixie because we hope to help springboard others into success as well.” Specifically, they sponsored renovations to the Idea Room on the second floor of the Ernö and Etel Udvar-Hazy School of Business building. An entrepreneurship center where students and community members receive assistance in developing business ideas, the Idea Room has played a role in the filing of more than 70 patent applications in addition to numerous copyrights and trademarks.

Though they have close ties to the business school, the Staples also recognize the value of art and have contributed to bringing up-and-coming artists to the Dixie State campus to inspire and mentor art students.

“We are grateful every day that we attended Dixie,” Becky says.

Becky Staples, ’11

12 • Dixie State University Magazine • Fall 2018

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ATWOOD INNOVATION PLAZA

14 • Dixie State University Magazine • Fall 2018

BRINGING INNOVATION TO DIXIE

ATWOODS SHARE PASSION FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP Story by Jyl Hall | Design by Tori Lewis

When approached with an opportunity of any kind, Dixie State University Board of Trustees member Lindsay Atwood often asks himself one simple question: How do we make the world better?

“Having our name on Innovation Plaza isn’t why we are getting involved at Dixie,” Lindsay says. “It’s really to inspire others to give. If we all give, we can really make a difference.”

more than 70 patent applications and creating more than a dozen businesses.

Whether he is investing as a silent partner in a business, starting his own — which he has done seven times over the last 30 years — or contributing his time and talents to Dixie State, Lindsay and his wife, Laura, are certain to make sure their involvement in any venture helps others.

When renovations are complete, Atwood Innovation Plaza will be open to students and community members alike and will be the region’s hub for support, guidance, and education on innovation and entrepreneurism. A primary goal of the center is to elevate the region’s economic landscape by helping create and retain companies in Washington County. To accomplish this, Atwood Innovation Plaza will build on the work of Dr. Wayne Provost, who has assisted in filing

Helping with this initiative, Lindsay taught the Entrepreneurial 101 class with five other entrepreneurs to 11 “amazing kids.” By creating a business around a revolutionary wind jet, the class known as “Ocean’s 11” learned the ins and outs of business development, had the opportunity to earn shares in the company, and discovered the importance of giving back.

“We’re always looking at how people benefit from what we’re doing,” Lindsay says. “Pretty much everything I have done has been a benefit to others.” In fact, past business ventures have involved everything from drastically reducing the cost of hearing aids, glasses, and LASIK eye surgery to making good food affordable.

Now, the couple are setting their focus on Dixie State University, its students, and its community. The Atwoods have contributed $3 million to the business development, entrepreneurialism, and seed capital initiatives associated with the newly named Atwood Innovation Plaza.

“ENTREPRENEURISM IS THE LIFEBLOOD OF A COMMUNITY. WITHOUT ENTREPRENEURS STARTING NEW BUSINESSES, ECONOMIC GROWTH DOES NOT TAKE PLACE, AND AN AREA WILL JUST BE STAGNANT. “

“When we work on a project with the students, in exchange for our time, we want their commitment that they’re going to give back to Dixie to help others,” Lindsay explains. “If we are helping them get to commercialization and take their ideas to market, they’re going to contribute a portion of their company so Dixie wins and future students win because of their efforts. That’s the whole goal; it’s a cycle of paying it forward.”

Investing in education holds a special place in Lindsay’s heart as one of his favorite ways to pay it forward and make a difference in individuals’ lives. “That’s how you change the world, through education,” he says. “I think back on my own teachers and the guidance they gave me, and I want to return that favor to the community.” #activelearningactivelife • www.dixie.edu • 15

ATWOOD INNOVATION PLAZA For Laura, giving to Dixie is an easy decision that comes down to one word: trust. “I’ve seen the things Lindsay has done over the years, and he’s always made really good decisions to benefit everybody and not just himself,” she says. “So, I say to myself, ‘If he believes in this, then I’ll go along with him and see where it ends up.’”

Lindsay’s belief in Dixie State started over three years ago, when DSU Hall of Fame inductees and longtime supporters Ralph and Cheri Atkin introduced the Atwoods to President Richard “Biff” Williams. Lindsay immediately respected the leader’s vision for the institution and agreed to be a member of the University’s National Advisory Council. A couple years later, Williams asked Lindsay to join the Board of Trustees, and he agreed to do so on one condition. “I love your vision, I love where it’s going, as long as we get things done,” Lindsay told Williams. “We’ve got to get it done.”

Now, looking to the Atkins as an example, Lindsay actively pulls his friends toward DSU while encouraging others to do likewise. “We need mentors. There are so many successful business people in this area who have retired down here. I encourage them to join us and make a difference,” Lindsay says. “Also, it’s a whole lot of fun.”

Coming onto the Dixie State campus is a whole lot of fun for Laura, too. “I never really had the college experience, so seeing the buildings, equipment, and students creates a neat community feel,” she says.

And for the Atwoods, community is what it’s all about.

“Entrepreneurism is the lifeblood of a community. Without entrepreneurs starting new businesses, economic growth does not take place, and an area will just be stagnant,” Lindsay says. “We love St. George for the beautiful place it is, and we are thrilled to contribute to its economic success in any way we can.”

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active learning. active life.

A SUMMER IN THE PACIFIC Student-Reporter Finds Inspiration, Motivation in a Fortuitous Internship

Story by Rhiannon Bent | Design by Valerie De La O

Naomi Vazquez was weeks away from finishing her fourth semester at DSU when she seriously considered dropping out.

Family relationships and finances were in a desperate state. New classes and challenges were overwhelming. Then came the offer of an internship 6,000 miles away. She had to decide: Could she stick with it?

Rewind three semesters. Vazquez sat in a TRiO class listening to the introductions of several classmates who had come from Saipan, an island in the Northern Mariana Islands, to attend DSU. Vazquez was particularly inspired by the story of Allison Arellano, who had survived a devastating typhoon and left her family to attend college.

When Vazquez was assigned to write a student profile for the Dixie Sun News the following year, she knew exactly who the subject should be.

While reporting, Vazquez reached out to Gerard van Gils, Arellano’s mentor, who now runs an organization called MYPros (Marianas Young Professionals). Once published, the story garnered attention, first among Vazquez’s friends and family, then

throughout the community, and eventually to the island of Saipan. Van Gils commented on the article on Facebook, telling Vazquez that Saipan could use more good reporters.

He was so serious he set Vazquez up with an internship at the local newspaper, Marianas Variety, and arranged housing and travel.

Some students wouldn’t think twice about spending a summer on a Pacific island, but the decision wasn’t easy for Vazquez. Those last few weeks of the spring semester had taken their toll mentally and physically, and Vazquez says she was in no position to leave. But at the same time, there was so much motivation to keep going; she had been awarded Most Valuable Reporter at the Dixie Sun’s year-end banquet, she had been offered a leadership position at the Multicultural and Inclusion Center, and when she considered all this important work, she wanted to keep going.

That’s not to say her problems evaporated when the plane landed in Saipan. She went with nothing: no money, no family, no knowledge of the culture. She was homesick and overwhelmed by the expectation of writing an article each day of the six-week internship.

But the growth was incredible, not only the journalism experience but also the opportunity to network.

“I proved it to myself. I can take on any challenge and feel like I was successful,” Vazquez says. “It was cool to see so many people of color doing great stuff. I can be like them, and I could bring this perspective here to Utah.”

Vazquez is back at DSU this fall, capitalizing on all she learned this summer in her current positions at the Dixie Sun and the MIC, more motivated than ever to make the best of her last two years as a media studies major.

“My world is a little bit bigger now,” Vazquez says. “It gave me a lot more confidence. Saipan is a place where people are just happy even though ... most of the people are in poverty. They’re all comfortable in their own skin. This is the type of life everyone should live.” #activelearningactivelife • www.dixie.edu •

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A Million Views for A Million Dreams

Story by Dr. Jordon Sharp Photography by Scott Garrett, ’17 & Bryce Parker

FOCAL POINT

What does it take to realize a million dreams? For Dixie State University, it required 500 volunteers, 15 locations, hundreds of props and costumes, a full orchestra and choir, dancers, singers, contortionists, a sword swallower, a hot-air balloon, and one YouTube sensation.

If you haven’t seen Dixie State University and Alex Boyé’s recent music video, A Million Dreams (The Greatest ‘African’ Showman), then you are definitely missing out. The viral video, which was produced by DSU’s Marketing & Communication office and filmed by DSU Films, recently hit 1 million views on YouTube and is touching hearts around the world.

A Million Dreams captures the experience and spirit of Dixie State University by telling the story of DSU international student Francis Chukujekwe, who comes to Dixie State to explore his passions, connect with mentors, and achieve his dreams. In the video, Chukujekwe is helped along the way by the Greatest African Showman, Alex Boyé, who takes him on a magical journey of discovery. Each of DSU’s six academic colleges is represented, as Chukujekwe is introduced to a variety of disciplines and participates in DSU’s “active learning. active life.” experience first hand.

Now, help the video hit 2 million views by watching and sharing the video at dixie.edu/alex.

#IGoToDixie • www.dixie.edu • 19

FOCAL POINT Alex Boyé, a singer, actor, and YouTube sensation, is known primarily for his dynamic African-infused songs that have gained nearly 1 billion views on YouTube. Additionally, Boyé has shared the stage with many notable artists including Jay-Z, Tim McGraw, George Michael, Missy Elliott, Justin Timberlake, The Beach Boys, and Olivia Newton-John. He currently is working on a brand-new album with Randy Jackson from American Idol.

“The idea was to keep everything moving, to give it a sweeping feel that complemented the rises and falls of the pacing of the song itself,” Ben Braten, director of video production, says.

Assistant Professor of Digital Film Phil Tuckett, a 30-time Emmy Award winner, directed the five-minute video over seven days in 15 locations around Washington County.

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In conjunction with Washington County School District, DSU Marketing & Communication assisted 200 children atop Dixie Rock for the video’s climactic scene. Boyé offered inspirational words to the children’s choir at the conclusion of the filming, instructing the kids to be true to themselves and not to listen to any haters who may aim to bring them down.

The DSU concert choir, directed by Assistant Professor of Music Roger Hale, provided the African chants for the video and filmed the choral scene at the Whiterock Amphitheater in Snow Canyon State Park. The shoot demanded a half-mile hike from the main road, which proved difficult for choir soloist Joshua France, who uses a wheelchair. As a result, one of the highlights for those involved in the production of the video was witnessing Dr. Hale and four students carry France and his wheelchair into the breathtaking amphitheater.

Boyé commissioned awardwinning composer and DSU alumnus Ricky Valadez to create the soundtrack for the music video.

Valdez’s music has been featured worldwide in commercials, musicals, films, and television.

BoyĂŠ loved working with the international students from Nigeria, the birthplace of his mother and the inspiration for much of his music.

On a frigid, dark night, The Blaze dance team danced atop the iconic D on the Hill, situated on steep and treacherous terrain, creating an exciting scene involving BoyĂŠ and Radio Dixie.

Francis Chukujekwe, a computer science major from Nigeria, sang A Million Dreams for his audition, unaware it was the same song that had already been chosen for the music video. Director Phil Tuckett and Executive Producer Jordon Sharp both felt it was a sign and cast Chukujekwe as the star of the video.

FOCAL POINT

Professor of Art Glen Blakley carried the commencement mace through Cougar Canyon at the conclusion of the video, just as he has done for the past 10 years in DSU’s commencement ceremony.

It required two buses and a moving truck to transport DSU’s full orchestra to the Snow Canyon Overlook.

Interestingly, it was the exact overlook where Orchestra Director Dr. Paul Abegg took his engagement photos.

The video has received an outstanding number of positive and inspirational comments on YouTube. The more than 1,500 remarks demonstrate the impact the video is having on viewers across the globe.

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AND THE WINNER IS ...

DSU faculty and staff members excel in their respective areas of expertise, and these professionals were recognized for their exceptional efforts. Let’s give it up for these outstanding members of the Dixie community.

JENNIFER J. HARRINGTON Instructor of Nursing

TRAVIS ROSENBERG

Executive Director of Human Resources HR Excellence Award from the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources, Western Region

Outstanding Achievement for Leadership in Nursing Education from Regis University

DR. FLORENCE E. BACABAC

DR. JOY MCMURRIN

Community Engaged Scholar Award from Utah Campus Compact

Outstanding Dissertation Award in Technical Communication 2018, Honorable Mention from the Conference on College Composition and Communication

Associate Professor of English

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Assistant Professor of English

DR. JOSEPH LOVELL

Assistant Professor of Recreation & Sport Management Outstanding Academic Professional from the Utah Recreation and Parks Association

CELEBRATING FACULTY & STAFF

DR. CINDY KING

Assistant Professor of English The Betty Gabehart Prize from the University of Kentucky

DEL PARSON Professor of Art

2018 Award of Excellence in the Arts from the St. George Arts Commission

MARTIN L. PETERSON Director of Dining Services

Gold Award for Safety from the Utah Restaurant Association on behalf of DSU Dining Services

DEBBIE FORBUSH

Respiratory Therapy Program Director Distinguished Registered Respiratory Therapist Credentialing Success Award from the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care on behalf of DSU’s Program

DR. BRUCE HARRIS

Executive Director for the Office of Academic Innovation Distance Education Book Award from the Association for Educational Communications and Technology, Division of Distance Learning

#activelearningactivelife #DixieSpirit • www.dixie.edu • 25

The Future of Tech DSU Reinvents What It Means To Be A Coder, Programmer, Engineer Story by Taylor Lewis | Design by Valerie De La O

Dixie Prep

As Eliza Goodwin finishes reading the final page of a novel, her hands rest along the glowing numbers and letters in front of her. In an instant, her fingers dance across the computer keys as she updates the online library she singlehandedly coded when she was just 8 years old.

Her tech-savvy nature blossomed the moment her mother signed her up to participate in a series of Dixie State University science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs that launched in 2012.

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“Many parents of my generation have no idea how all of this works and have no idea how to encourage this kind of learning, yet we know this a large part of our children’s lives well into adulthood,” Eliza’s mother, Melissa Goodwin, says. “I knew technology would be vital no matter what career my children chose, so I reached out to Dean Eric Pedersen to see how I could get them involved.”

are more than 25,000 job openings in the technology-based market. To address this shortage, Pedersen, dean of DSU’s College of Science, Engineering & Technology, partnered with faculty and community members to begin offering a pipeline of STEM programs that prepare the next generation to meet the significant demand for quality programmers, designers, and developers.

Goodwin is right. Industries across the Western U.S. are constantly competing to find talented individuals to fulfill STEM-related jobs. Regionally, there

“Companies want someone who is going to bring innovation and the necessary technical skills to successfully solve problems,” Pedersen adds. “They

STEM PIPELINE want thinking that changes the world, and when you introduce the pipeline to students earlier, it gives them more time to solve these problems using technology.”

only fun but also encourages them to continue creating long after the programs end.”

The programs give students as young as 8 years old the opportunity to learn about computer programming, modern web technologies, and fundamental concepts of user experience design through various summer camps and after-school activities. Introducing technology concepts to kids at an early age allows them to enter college with the knowledge necessary to take upperdivision courses and finish as qualified, job-ready graduates in just four years.

Inside of the Goodwins’ home, you’ll find Eliza and her younger sister Adelaide’s vast collection of projects and inventions they have designed while participating in STEM programs.

Because of CodeChangers, which is a self-paced program that teaches students how to code for games, apps, websites, and software, Eliza has all kinds of gadgets, soldered circuit boards, and websites she can confidently say she handcrafted while attending this program.

“It’s not like going to your middle school computer class,” Pedersen says.

“We give our students the chance to participate in hands-on activities using advanced technology that is not

CodeChangers

“I am thankful for CodeChangers teaching me how to program and code because I continue to use what I have learned and apply it every time I update

my favorite website, which is dedicated to the books I’ve read,” Eliza adds.

Students ages 8 to 18 can sign up for the four-day summer camp or after-school program. For more information, visit CodeChangers.com.

Girls Go Digital Created by DSU Assistant Professor of Web/Digital Design Rachel Ramsay, Girls Go Digital teaches girls how to “hack, design, code, and make” using technology and computer science.

Since the program’s inception in 2013, girls between the ages of 8 and 18 have learned how to code their own websites, develop apps, build and program robots, and create their own circuits. The four-day camp is hands on, and new activities are added every year to offer new learning experiences.

Girls Go Digital

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STEM PIPELINE

With every project specifically tailored to each student’s experience level, DSU freshman Bailee Allen says Girls Go Digital is a catalyst for creativity in STEM and gives girls the opportunity to learn and connect with others in a fun, inventive way.

because we get to see them grow into these inspiring innovators who use lessons from this camp to continue creating and building new projects,” Allen says.

“Being around all of these different girls who are passionate about technology is a really powerful force,” Allen says. “When you find your niche where you fit in with other girls, it inspires you to go further because they love and support you.”

When the camp was first introduced, only 6 girls participated. Today, more than 700 girls participate in the program each year, and with a growing need, Girls Go Digital is now available in Ephraim, Ogden, and Salt Lake City. In St. George alone, the camp continues to increase at an exponential rate.

After attending the camp for three years, Allen now teaches a few classes during the summer at Girls Go Digital to help other girls pursue their passions. “It is amazing seeing girls come back year after year

“It’s such an amazing opportunity that Rachel, along with other teachers like myself, wanted to give to as many girls as possible, and DSU has really helped create a welcoming environment for girls in the tech

Girls Go Digital

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community,” Allen adds.

With initiatives like these, other corporations have noticed the kind of effort DSU is putting forth to get more kids involved. Pedersen, Ramsay, and Dixie State President Richard “Biff” Williams recently flew to tour Apple’s headquarters and meet with representatives to discuss the program’s progress.

“Apple representatives really love Girls Go Digital, and they think it’s an incredible way to introduce more people to the world of STEM,” Pedersen says. “Programs like DSU’s K-16 STEM pipeline are trying to solve this multibillion dollar problem so industries and companies like Apple have qualified talent to flourish.”

STEM PIPELINE

Pipeline Programs Mechanical Engineering Camp

FIRST Around the same time Allen was participating in Girls Go Digital, she also signed up to be a part of For Inspiration & Recognition of Science & Technology (FIRST) Lego League, in which students compete in teams to win two sets of challenges. In the first portion of the challenge, teams must brainstorm a viable solution to a real-world problem, and in the second part, they design and program a robot using Lego Mindstorms to compete against other robots.

By participating in FIRST and other STEM programs, Allen has seen firsthand the impact these programs

have on their youth participants and the difference they are making in the tech sector.

“DSU has so many resources to help us in the STEM field and mentors who inspire us every step of the way,” Allen says. “It can be life changing for youth who get involved early on, knowing the opportunity is available for them to explore technology years before they get to college. If you have a vision, they will help you make it happen because it’s not just about helping more students realize DSU is a school they can attend, it’s mainly about the individual student in each program and making sure they have what they need to succeed.”

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ACE Academy Chemistry & Geology Camps Code Camp CodeChangers Code School Design School Dixie Prep DixieTech eSmart FIRST Lego League Gene Girls Girls Go Digital Intermediate Programming Club - Kids Beginning Programming Club - Mechanical Engineering Camp - Outdoor Leadership Academy - P.O.P. Rocks - Red Rock Math Circle - STEM Early Education at Dixie State - SUCCESS Academy Learn more at stem.dixie.edu/programs.

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COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE

Faculty Award Winners Display Unprecedented Dedication to Their Students and Colleagues

ALEX CHAMBERLAIN Distinguished Teaching Award

As a professor in the College of the Arts, Alex Chamberlain teaches three levels of digital photography as well as 3-D visualization and 3-D animation. Chamberlain says he loves the culture at DSU, especially in the Art Department, which “makes working here so much fun because my colleagues are also my friends.”

Another factor he attributes to the great culture in DSU’s Art Department is the students themselves. “Our students really seem to get into that collaborative spirit and are exceptional at looking for a direct application.” Through the “active learning. active life.” mantra, “they can create amazing things.”

DR. ABU KHAN

Dixie Award for Teacher of the Year: Rising Star Assistant Professor of Finance Dr. Abu Khan is “absolutely proud to be a part of Trailblazer Nation.” He teaches various finance courses in addition to business statistics in the Accounting Department in DSU’s College of Business & Communication, a college he says contains “the best people to work with.”

Dr. Khan specifically takes pride in DSU’s culture of student-centered learning and innovation. “The personalized attention I give our students has led me to really love and appreciate my students here at Dixie,” he says. “They challenge me every day to want to be a better teacher.”

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Story by Chase Hansen | Design & Illustrations by Derrick LeMaster

FACULTY AWARDS

DR. LISH HARRIS

Dixie Award for Teacher of the Year In addition to heading the Criminal Justice Program and coordinating the criminology emphasis within DSU’s Social & Behavioral Sciences Department, Associate Professor Dr. Lish Harris teaches a wide array of courses covering criminological theory such as urban crime, drugs and crime, crimes against humanity, and the connection between crime, media, and culture.

With his hand in just about everything in the program, he values the opportunity to teach the same students in multiple classes before they graduate. “When you combine that frequent exposure to the same students with our small class sizes, it results in the development of some really special relationships,” he says. “I love and cherish the connections I make with our students.”

DR. KRISTINE OLSON Distinguished Professor Award

Going into her eighth year of teaching at Dixie State, Associate Professor of Psychology Dr. Kristine Olson has seen a lot of “students from different backgrounds with diverse goals” come through the Social & Behavioral Sciences Department. She, in turn, uses that diversity to create a unique classroom culture “to get students interacting in class, having fun, and enjoying the classroom environment.”

In her time teaching here, Dr. Olson has taught everything from general psychology to research practicums and the Senior Capstone. She also has enjoyed DSU because of the team she gets to be a part of. “I get a lot of support from my colleagues in terms of being able to bounce ideas off of them.”

#DixieSpirit • www.dixie.edu • 31

FROM CENTER COURT TO CLASSROOM Trailblazer Basketball’s Austin Montgomery Excels Both On and Off the Court Story by Justin Giles | Design by Sadie Kroll

TRAILBLAZER BASKETBALL

Heading into his senior season, Dixie State basketball player Austin Montgomery has seen his journey come full circle. Coming out of high school, Montgomery was accepted to several prestigious universities, including MIT.

“It was a dream come true for me,” Montgomery says with a smile. “The internship was an amazing experience and I learned so much. I highly recommend it and I am so grateful I had the opportunity to go.”

Yet, despite being one of the smartest students in his high school class, an Eagle Scout, and an accomplished basketball player, his goal of going to Stanford was crushed after he did not get accepted into his dream institution. Stanford was the only school to turn Montgomery down, but bound and determined, Montgomery did not give up.

The opportunity to intern at Stanford for a summer was all that was needed to seal the deal and get Montgomery to come to DSU. Besides seeing the impressive athletic facilities and all the championship banners hanging in the M. Anthony Burns Arena, the Stanford connection made it an easy decision for the 6-foot-8, 210-pound center to transfer to DSU in 2016.

As the saying goes, “When there is a will, there is a way,” and thanks to Dixie State University, Montgomery saw his dreams come to fruition this past summer.

Montgomery was one of three DSU students chosen to take part in Stanford University’s Undergraduate Summer Research Program, which was made possible through a partnership between the two schools and Dixie Regional Medical Center. DSU, now in its fifth year with the summer research program, was the first institution to participate in the internship opportunity.

Coming out of high school, Montgomery had a number of offers to play basketball at the Division I level. At Lakeview Academy in Saratoga Springs, the basketball star was an 8-A first-team selection and finished his prep career as the academy’s third all-time leading scorer with 1,326 points. During his senior season, Montgomery averaged nearly a double-double with 20.8 points and 9.0 rebounds.

With his goal to become a doctor and finish college debt free, Montgomery #DixieBlazers • www.dixie.edu • 33

TRAILBLAZER BASKETBALL

chose to play basketball at the University of Utah over taking the MIT route. However, after his freshman season in Salt Lake City, Montgomery was looking for something that would help put his education first.

“I loved Utah and everyone there, but I didn’t feel like I had a lot of support when it came to academics, and that is a big reason why I transferred to DSU,” Montgomery says. “The coaches at Utah were more basketball focused, and it’s not like that here. Coach Judkins and the coaching staff have always been really supportive and have worked with me and my school schedule, which sometimes can get in the way of practices.”

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Dixie State Head Men’s Basketball Coach Jon Judkins added: “Austin is a great person; he has a great work ethic, and he’s so smart too. Sometimes his class schedule doesn’t always line up with our practices, but we do our best to work around it. He’s taking some really tough courses, but Austin is good about coming in early or staying late to get those practice sessions in that he’s missed.”

degree,” he says. “That is really the most important part and is going to benefit them the rest of their lives.”

With the new season fast approaching, Coach Judkins reminds his players every year that school comes first and athletics come second.

Earning a degree in bioinformatics, which is a mix of biology and computer science, Montgomery does a lot with genetic analysis. For his internship project, Montgomery chose to work on building a pipeline of tools that could further analyze DNA data.

“Basketball is fun, but we always remind the players that they are here to get an education and to get their

While most students headed home to visit family this past summer, Montgomery was busy working in labs with world-class scientists, helping with research papers as well as computer programming and data collection.

“The way the world is going today, technology is taking over,” he says. “And while we have tools to generate mass data these days, we need to be able to analyze and interrupt that data. That is what I love about the internship and learning in general.”

Next year, the 3.99 GPA student will be one of the first to graduate in the new bioinformatics program as he looks to continue blazing new trails.

“That’s what DSU is,” Montgomery says. “We are the Trailblazers and we are going out and blazing trails. It’s super exciting and it’s been a great blessing to be part of it all.”

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REMEMBERING AN ALUMNUS

A LASTING LEGACY

Sidney Atkin’s Generosity Changed the Course of Dixie’s Future Story by Taylor Lewis | Design by Adriana Morgan

S

idney Atkin was all too familiar with the Burns Arena. After all, he used to run up and down a similar court when he was on Dixie College’s basketball team in 1954.

Although he only played one season, Sidney was a dedicated Dixie basketball fan who routinely attended games in the arena with his wife, Mary Ann, until he passed away on Aug. 1, 2018, after battling dementia.

“DSU’s athletic events were always his favorite,” Mary Ann remembers. “We had season passes and back in the day, he followed the basketball team to watch them compete in the national finals on multiple occasions.”

Aside from taking an interest in the school’s athletics, Sidney valued students’ educational experiences and made significant contributions to Dixie College.

This generosity greatly influenced the school’s transition from a junior college to a four-year institution in the late ’90s and early 2000s.

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“One of the real challenges with gaining four-year status was that we just didn’t have scholarship money,” Brad Last, DSU’s vice president of university advancement, says.

“Without Sid and Mary Ann’s donations, it would have made it much more difficult for DSU to recruit students to stay here for the full four years.”

Still to this day, students who are seeking bachelor’s degrees in business administration or computer and information technology have the opportunity to apply for the Sidney and Mary Ann Atkin Scholarship. Since 2000, the couple’s donation has generated $200,000 in scholarships for up to 30 students every year.

“They have impacted thousands of lives,” Last says. “A lot of these students wouldn’t have been able to go to school without the help of Sid and Mary Ann.”

Aside from being one of DSU’s single biggest donors, Sidney was an integral member of the Board of Trustees and Dixie College Foundation. He dedicated his time not only to supporting the institution in its various needs, but also soliciting donations from others to support foundation-sponsored events. Together, the Atkins routinely made appearances at an array of school events, from visiting the Sears Art Museum to participating in alumni assemblies and spearheading the Dixie Classic Golf Tournament.

“Sid had a deep concern for the community, and he also recognized the value of education,” Last says. “He recognized what Dixie State College meant then and what Dixie State University means now to this community.”

Dear Alumni & Friends, The DSU Alumni Association is so excited to be celebrating the 107th year of Dixie State University and just as many years of keeping our students’ educations at the core of everything we do.

This year, almost 10,000 students are enrolled at Dixie State, each of them here to fulfill their desire to learn and reach their highest potential. As an open-enrollment institution, DSU affords almost 45 percent of our student population the opportunity to pursue higher education as first-generation college students, meaning they are the first in their families ever to pursue a college degree.

Helping these students is a badge of honor for us.

Incredible expansion continues across campus to better serve our students, such as adding the Human Performance Center that will open in fall 2019; developing Atwood Innovation Plaza, a hub for technology and entrepreneurship; completing Trailblazer Stadium’s eastside grandstand; and expanding our academic programs to include 43 baccalaureate majors and a Master of Accountancy.

What impresses me the most is that despite the University’s tremendous growth, we still provide each of our students with individualized attention. As a new member of the Board of Trustees, I have seen the devotion our faculty and staff have for our students and their potential to make a difference in the world.

I invite you to campus to see this devotion yourself during Homecoming Week 2018. Please plan to attend the Alumni Banquet & Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Nov. 2. We will honor Linda Lou Crosby-Bills with the Distinguished Former Faculty/Staff Award and Dennis Udy with the Distinguished Service Award. Check out the full schedule of activities on page 5. You won’t want to miss the fun!

When I walk on campus, I am constantly reminded of the great foundation that Dixie State University provided for my life. When you are on campus this Homecoming, I hope you too think back on the many fond memories and enrichment Dixie offered you and decide to join us in making a difference in young individuals’ lives. There is so much we can do for today’s Trailblazers, and we need your help to succeed.

Go Trailblazers!

Kelli Prince, Class of ’94 DSU Alumni Association President

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