July 24, 2023- The Utah Statesman- Utah State University

Week of July 24, 2023

Utah State University, Logan, Utah

New management for USU student health center

By Caitlin Keith NEWS MANGER

After months of research, discussion and planning, Intermountain Health took over managing Utah State University’s Student Health and Wellness Center on July 1. The university made the official announcement on May 1.

Any registered USU student will continue to have access to the health center, just as they did in the past, as its cost remains a part of tuition.

In a Zoom interview, USU Executive Vice President and chief operational officer Robert Wagner said in September 2022, former university president Noelle Cockett asked him to do a deep review into the state of the Student Health and Wellness Center.

“We thought it would be a good time to just really take a deep dive into the center,” Wagner said. “And really start asking ourselves just some fundamental questions like, ‘Is the center still serving students well? Is it accomplishing the goals and objectives that USU has?’”

The three focuses within the review were scope of care, quality of care and financial viability.

Wagner said there was no end goal when starting this review and there was no plan already in place to replace management.

As the review continued, the committee put in place to review the center decided to explore alternative options for running it.

“As we began looking at considering this idea of contracting out, we thought, ‘Well, let’s do this officially. We’re a public institution; there’s a correct way of doing this,’” Wagner said. “We decided to work closely with our purchasing department, and we developed a request for proposals that laid out if we were to contract out, this is what we would want it to look like; again, focusing on scope of care, quality of care and financial viability.”

The request for proposals was issued during the break between fall semester 2022 and spring semester 2023. During the beginning of spring semester, the proposals submitted by third-party entities were examined, and university officials met with representatives from the companies.

“As we dug in deeper and closer, we began to realize that the idea of contracting out to this third party would make real good sense for our students,” Wagner said. “It would bring options and a type of quality of care and scope of care that our students just haven’t had.”

According to Wagner, the decision for Intermountain Health to take over running the center came at the beginning of April.

Bringing in a third-party company that specializes in health care brings a few benefits to the center and to the students of USU. Intermountain Health will be able to connect students with healthcare services outside of the university that the center itself isn’t able to provide.

“By bringing a medical provider in — an organization that focuses on health care — we understand and know that they have a lot of resources that they can make available to our students that as an institution, we just couldn’t,” Wagner said. “For example, Intermountain Health is going to make after-hours telehealth available to our students.”

When the change in management came about, Wagner said they made sure all of the staff at the center were offered a job under the new management. He said they didn’t want anyone to lose their jobs because of the change.

“Some of the other things that we put into the request for proposals to make sure is, number one, we didn’t want this to cost more for students,” Wagner said. “And number two, we didn’t want them to have to go someplace else. We take great pride in the fact that we have a student health and wellness center on our campus

that’s close by for our students.”

Students can make appointments online, and the center also accepts walk-ins if necessary.

Wagner said they will be monitoring the operations of the center and the care it provides to make sure it is accomplishing everything they want it to.

“This is something we’re going to watch very carefully as we go in, especially this first year, to make sure that students’ needs are being met. Again, we take it very, very seriously — I take it seriously that student tuition is paying for this,” Wagner said. “Students are number one here, and we need to make sure that their needs are being met.”

Caitlin Keith is from Utah is currently a senior studying journalism. Other than writing, she enjoys watching and ranting about TV shows or sports, speaking German and eating snacks.

— c.keith@usu.edu

New Logan City Police Chief

By Jenny Carpenter NEWS STAFF WRITER

Families, boy scouts and police officers gathered on July 18 in the Logan City Council building, ready to celebrate Jeff Simmons’ swearing in as Logan City’s new police chief.

After Simmons was appointed as Logan City Police Department’s new chief, former police captain Curtis Hooley was then ratified as the department’s assistant chief.

“It’s overwhelming; you never truly know how much people support you, love you, care for you, until you get into an event like this,” Simmons said. “When I see all these guys — I didn’t invite them. I didn’t ask a single soul except my daughter, and then to have support like that — that’s when you know, maybe somewhere along the way, you have done something good.”

Before Simmons was sworn in, he opened the city council meeting with noting the importance of always recognizing the importance of protecting the constitutional liberty of Logan’s residents — along with the continual respect and courtesy of its police officers.

“For all the great men and women doing a difficult service, I trust them, and that trust grows every time I see them treat even the vilest of offenders with kindness, decency and respect,” Simmons said in his opening remarks. “These peace officers are true guardians of our community and will be needed and counted upon to be a light, safety and security in an ever-darkening world.”

After his opening ceremony, the Logan City Council ratified him, where he then stepped up to take his oath of office.

Logan City Council member Tom Jensen said, “We all want him to succeed and have confidence that he will succeed. And he’s already built a good relationship in the community within the department. He needs to be not only a guy that can shoot a gun, but more so can build a relationship with people.”

As the department has recently had several appointment changes, Simmons said that he’s excited to get back to keeping Logan safe — and one of the main facets

he will emphasize in his department is courtesy and peace from police officers.

“We’re always called law enforcement officers — that’s great, that’s a component of it,” Simmons told the Statesman. “But really, our mandate is ‘peace officers,’ and all that entails.”

Even when arresting individuals or engaging with those that may be disrespectful, Simmons added, he encourages all the officers to be kind and open.

“Our officers are really good at that, honestly; they show great patience — they’re very, very good at using force only as an absolute last resort,” Simmons said.

“I think that’s a lot of what our country needs is a lot more common courtesy, a lot more civic dialogue.”

The Logan City Police Department will also focus its efforts on community outreach, Simmons said, with a particular emphasis on updating the department’s website, speaking to the public about what police officers do and having open conversations with communities of color.

“We’re always willing to come and listen, take the heat, whatever it takes to

get to know them, them to know us — that we’re human beings, that we have far more in common than we ever do apart,” Simmons said.

Jensen agreed that Simmons’ leadership and the Logan City Police Department’s new outreach programs will promote peace and unity.

“He is a very proactive about building relationships with the community before people become criminals, you know, playing basketball with the kids over at the gym, or going out to the park — just meeting with the people in the neighborhood,” Jensen said. One of the best ways community members themselves can make Logan a safer city would be to lock their cars and doors, Simmons said, citing cases of car burglaries and break-ins.

“Preventative things are what’s going to help us the most — certainly report, if you see something, say something, or tell us if something looks odd — it probably is,” Simmons said. “And that will help our quality of life throughout the city.”

Jensen added how he has confidence that Simmons will help continue to build trust in Logan’s communities, creating a safer environment for people to report crime and call in when they’re concerned. “I think if we trust the department, we will be more apt to call on them,” Jensen said. “That’s a big deal.”

Jenny Carpenter is majoring in print Journalism and minoring in English. When she’s not reading or writing news, she’s practicing Chinese, spends time with her spouse, and writing Dungeons and Dragons campaigns.

“The Marvelous Wonderettes” unites its audience through music

By Ella Stott LIFESTYLES STAFF REPORTER

“The Marvelous Wonderettes” is a comedic throwback musical complete with about 35 songs composed of hits from the 1950s and 1960s. Its large, familiar repertoire of music is a key piece of the musical’s effect on both its performers and its audience.

“Music has the ability to bring people together,” said Ashlynn Rober, a member of the Lyric Repertory Company. Rober, who was cast as the character Suzy, recently graduated from the BFA acting program at Utah State University.

“The most powerful stories are conveyed through song,” Rober said. “Everybody leaves with a big smile.”

The musical’s first act introduces four friends — Suzy, Betty Jean, Cindy Lou and Missy — singing at their high school prom and discussing what their dream futures would be. The second act consists of them singing at their ten-year high school reunion and reflecting on how they’ve changed since they were last together.

The show was chosen for its appeal to an older audience. The pre-show had to warn the audience not to sing along with the classic, well-known songs.

The bulk of the show’s responsibilities fell on the four leading actors, who sang most of the songs in demanding four-part harmonies. According to Stephanie White, the show’s director, the four proved they were up for the challenge.

“We all just became the fastest friends,” said Rober about herself and the other three actors who portray the friends: Ariana Whatcott, Kaia Fitzgerald, and Marin Robinson.

This connection provided a real, relatable angle for the show.

Although their friendship allowed them to relate to their characters’ interactions, Rober said they aren’t all like their characters in real life.

you know, 90% of our audiences grew up on.”

For both Rober and White, the show is a prime example of the importance of theater for both its participants and its audience.

“Music is moving. Music is power. Music is incredibly important,” Rober said. White agreed, claiming the show was a chance for people to “realize humanity” with all of its ups and downs and important questions.

“Usually we get all of that in a theater and usually we are better for it,” White said. There are three more chances to watch “The Marvelous Wonderettes” at the Caine Lyric Theater this summer: July 14, 17, and 22.

Rober was excited to announce the rest of the Lyric Repertory Company’s “really wonderful season,” complete with Twelfth Night; Break it Down; One Man, Two Guvnors; interACT; and VOSCO Call Spotlight, all available to catch throughout July.

“It was unique and different to learn how to play (them),” she said.

“I love working with an incredible creative team,” White wrote in an email when asked about her favorite part of running the show. She said she also enjoyed watching the audience understand jokes from a different period of time.

With its jokes and older soundtrack, “The Marvelous Wonderettes” allows audiences of all ages to enjoy the theater together.

“My grandmother has dementia… and was perked up at every song,” Rober said. “All of the songs are songs that,

After teaching herself how to type at 5 years old, Ella decided that she wanted to be a writer. Now, she uses her writing to advocate for those who need a voice, specifically victims of child abuse. When she’s not writing, Ella is watching every 30 minute sitcom avalible and adoring her dogs.

Advice for students consid

ering studying abroad

By Avery Truman LIFESTYLES STAFF REPORTER

Many students consider studying in a foreign country during college but don’t go through with it for various reasons. Studying abroad can have both academic and personal benefits, and Utah State University has many opportunities for students to explore cultures around the globe.

USU’s study abroad director, Monika Galvydis, has worked in numerous countries with international study abroad programs.

“I really didn’t know much about the world outside of where I grew up,” Galvydis said. “Once I went, I discovered that the world was so much bigger, yet so much smaller than I had imagined.”

Galvydis said despite being surrounded by new experiences, she could still make personal connections while abroad.

“After packing up and moving to a totally different place, even for a short time, I felt like I could do anything I wanted to do,” Galvydis said. “It just made me more connected to the world.”

According to Galvydis, students interested in studying abroad should reach out to an adviser to discuss program options and interests.

“We also recommend that they talk with their academic adviser to figure out what courses they might be inter-

ested in taking abroad,” Galvydis said. “Once they’ve talked to both these parties, we have an online application system where they can find the ideal program for them.”

Galvydis said most study abroad programs have a GPA recommendation, but all students are encouraged to apply.

Kallen Brunson, USU’s systems coordinator for study abroad, did a Spanish language program in Spain and studied for an academic year in Taiwan. She said she learns new things about the world and herself each time she studies abroad.

“You get to learn things about yourself that you wouldn’t have had be-

fore,” Brunson said. “Afterwards, it’s like all these avenues and opportunities are open.”

Brunson said journaling and keeping in touch with family can help with culture shock while in another country. Before studying abroad, students attend an orientation to learn about coping mechanisms and common concerns they may have.

“We also have a student council for international students,” Brunson said. “If you’re interested in making friends with international students, it’s a good way to get in on some of the events and get a new perspective.”

According to Galvydis, studying abroad is not only good for people personally; it can also enhance academic education.

“These are experiences that you just can’t have in the classroom,” Galvydis said. “By offering these study abroad programs, we hope to enhance all of the ways that we’re teaching classes in Logan, but really bring them to those areas and help them learn about everything there, which makes people absorb it a little bit better.”

Galvydis recommends students consider studying abroad because there may be fewer options for travel in the future.

“Your finances might change after you graduate, you might have a family and other considerations,” Galvydis

said. “You might not have access to financial aid that you have in school that you can use for a study abroad. I would say now’s the time.”

Brunson said it’s recommended students study at least one year on campus before studying abroad. The earliest an Aggie can start studying abroad is the summer following their first year.

“There’s literally no better experience than to go to another country and learn about yourself and learn about other people and become connected and become part of this world instead of being here in Logan, Utah,” Brunson said. “It’s just such an immersive experience — nothing can really beat it.”

Avery Truman is a sophomore pursuing environmental studies and geography. She is passionate about astronomy, writing and reading science fiction and being the lifestyles editor for The Utah Statesman.

Track & Field/Cross Country coaching staff is restructured

By Madison Weber SPORTS EDITOR

Utah State interim athletics director Jerry Bovee announced a restructuring of the coaching staff of the track & field and cross country programs in order to “maximize the strengths of our staff.”

Artie Gulden will now serve as the director of the track & field and cross country programs, with Matt Ingebritsen as the associate head coach and throwers’ coach.

"This change in leadership within our track & field/ cross country programs will provide our student-athletes the best opportunities for growth and development," said Bovee.

Ingebritsen has been serving as both the director of the track & field and cross country programs and the head track & field coach for the past five seasons. He will now be an associate head coach while continuing to coach the Aggie throwers, which he has done for the past 19 years.

"After being the director of this program for five years, I have learned so much about this team and who I am as a coach," Ingebritsen said. "The conclusion I came to is that it is time for me to return to my former role as the associate head coach of the track & field program and put my full

attention back into the throws group."

During Ingebritsen's tenure, Utah State's throwers have combined for seven All-America honors, 23 conference titles and 111 all-conference accolades. Gulden completed his sixth season as the Aggies' head cross country and distance coach and will be entering his eighth season overall at Utah State in the fall.

"I am grateful for Matt and all the work he has put into our program. I am also grateful to all the student-athletes for their dedication and hard work,” Gulden said. “Most of all, I am grateful for my wife, Andrea, and our children, for sacrificing so much so that I can do what I've wanted to since I was 4 or 5 years old, which is be a head coach."

Gulden’s distance and cross country runners have combined for 20 All-America accolades, nine conference titles and 67 all-conference honors. During the 2022 cross country season, Gulden led Utah State's men's team to its fourth-ever trip to the NCAA Championships – all coming under his watch – where the Aggies beat five ranked teams and placed 26th with 618 points.

In the 2023 indoor season, 11 different Aggies combined for 15 all-MW accolades. This past May, Utah State's track & field and cross country programs had 10 athletes named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District teams.

"Artie will do a fantastic job," Ingebritsen said. "This team has a bright future ahead of it with him at the helm. I can't wait to see what's next for Utah State track & field."

For more information on the Utah State track & field/ cross country programs, follow the Aggies on Twitter at @USUTF_XC, on Facebook at USUTrack and on Instagram at USUTF_XC.

— madison.jenkins@usu.edu

Madison Weber loves food, friends and her family. She is studying international studies and journalism. Her favorite sports team will always be the Aggies.

Statesman File Photo Sophomore Atumum Kidd prepares for the first leg of the women’s 4x100meter relay. They finished with a time of 47.57

USU Softball gears up with new coaching staff

By Madison Weber SPORTS EDITOR

After Steve Johnson, USU Softball’s head coach, announced he was moving on from the Aggies, Utah State hired an entirely new coaching staff.

“After 27 years coaching softball, with the last 10 here in Cache Valley, it is time to move on to the next chapter in my life,” Johnson said. “Coaching is a challenging profession that requires a lot of sacrifice from the family. For years, I have put my teams first and my family second. The time has come to put my wife and daughter first.”

The university announced Todd Judge would take Johnson’s place as the 10th head coach for the team.

Judge spent the past two seasons with the BYU coaching staff. He has been coaching softball for 15 years and baseball for 10. While at BYU, Judge helped the Cougars to a 77-27 overall record. He served as third base coach, recruiting coordinator, and strength and conditioning adviser. In addition, he worked with the catchers and oversaw hitting, defensive play and base running.

Before coaching at BYU, Judge spent time coaching travel, high school and junior college teams. He also co-founded and coached the Oro Valley Sun Cats Softball club. He has placed over 100 athletes in collegiate teams, owned numerous fitness facilities, and trained players in a variety of sports.

Judge attended Arizona State and earned a degree in exercise science. There, he met his wife, Chris, a four-year letter winner in gymnastics. They have two daughters, who both play softball.

After his hiring, Judge announced Ryan Ramsower as the associate head coach and Mia Trejo as both an assistant and pitching coach.

"I am excited to bring Ryan on as our associate head coach," Judge said. "Ryan has tremendous experience in all phases of the game and has played at the highest level in the Pac-12. He is driven, hard-working and was born to coach."

Ramsower spent the 2023 season coaching baseball at West Seattle High School and as the director of baseball operations for the Washington Baseball Academy. He served as an assistant baseball coach from 2021-22 at Lower Columbia College, where he worked specifically with infielders and the Red Devils’ offense. This hiring isn’t the first time Ramsower and Judge

have worked together. Ramsower worked as an assistant coach for Judge with the Oro Valley Sun Cats from 2018-19.

Ramsower graduated from Washington State in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in humanities. He played two seasons at WSU, appearing in 49 games and starting 28 times. Prior to his collegiate career, he played two seasons at Pima Community College.

Mia Trejo is starting her first season with the Aggies after serving as a graduate assistant coach at UNLV in 2023. During her time on staff, the Rebels led the Mountain West in walks drawn (211), while ranking second in fielding percentage (.971) and on-base percentage (.401). Trejo helped four Rebels earn all-conference honors.

She graduated from UNLV with a bachelor’s degree in human services after playing five seasons herself. She earned all-MW honors in all five years of her career, two all-west region distinctions and was a four-time MW Player of the Week honoree. Trejo holds the UNLV record with 174 career RBIs.

"I am very excited to bring Mia Trejo on as our assistant coach," Judge said. "Mia had a remarkable career at UNLV, and I guarantee she will transfer that into a great coaching career. Mia will work with all phases

of team defense and will have a large role with our hitters."

For more information on the Utah State softball program, follow the Aggies on Twitter at @USUSoftball, on Facebook at USUSoftball and on Instagram at ususoftball.

Statesman File Photo

Utah State Softball team looks on as we send a batter to home base