DSU Magazine Spring 2022

FORGING A NEW BRAND FORGING A NEW BRAND NEW

Editor-in-Chief

Stacy Schmidt, ’91

Art Director

Scott Garrett, ’15

Illustration & Design

Scott Garrett, ’15

Adriana Howard, ’18

Valerie De La O, ’20

Danny Finnegan

True Jarrel

Anna Nuss

Macy Wagner

Photography

Scott Garrett, ’15

Alex Santiago

Matt Black, ’14

Henryk Conley

Jordan Palmer

Stan Plewe

Writers

Stacy Schmidt, ’91

Jyl Hall

Brooke Ulrich

Betty Barnum, ’68

Kaylee Cluff

Allie Garrow, ’22

Abbigail Jones

Aubrey Seamons

Copy Editors

Jyl Hall

Dr. Jordon Sharp

Marilyn Lamoreaux

Deborah Millet, ’75

Kaylee Cluff

Jake Harber

Aubrey Seamons

Allie Garrow, ’22

Abbigail Jones

Feedback

stacy.schmidt@dixie.edu

435-879-4412

Update Contact Information

alumni.dixie.edu/update-your-records

Get a first look at the new institutional brand as Dixie State University transitions to Utah Tech University effective July 1, 2022. Building on the institution’s century-long tradition of offering a quality education, the transition to Utah Tech University will propel the institution forward and help prepare students for the careers of their dreams.

DEPARTMENTS

Sixteen Dixie State University students experienced the ultimate active learning opportunity filming the series “Groundbreaking” in the lush rolling hills of Ireland.

Through his hard work and discipline for nearly 30 seasons of coaching, Dixie Alumnus Jon Judkins became the all-time winningest head coach in Utah college basketball history this year.

Dixie State alumni were honored at Evening of Dixie for their extraordinary impact on DSU and the community.

Trailblazer Nation

Offering our students and community “active learning. active life.” experiences is at the very core of who we are as a university, but what exactly does that mean? Simply, it represents our dedication to immersing all students in real-world learning settings so they graduate ready to meet workforce demands.

Regardless if it is called active learning, learning by doing, or a polytechnic education, the sentiment is the same. We deliver these learning opportunities in a multitude of different forms ranging from internships, co-ops, and mentorships to hands-on classroom projects and fieldtrips.

For example, Digital Film students gained hands-on experience this past summer by helping film the series “Groundbreaking” in Ireland, working with professional actors and crew members (page 6). Additionally, all students now have the opportunity to work through online courses and hands-on learning experiences at their own pace through our partnership with Pluralsight (page 3). Offering thousands of courses on a variety of innovative technology topics, this workforce development tool helps students enhance their resumes and marketability to potential employers.

Our focus on active learning experiences with an emphasis on career preparation isn’t new, but as we work toward becoming Utah Tech University starting July 1, we are transitioning to a name that highlights this. In fact, six years ago, other DSU administrators and I met with area business and community leaders to learn what they needed from their local university. What we discovered was a huge demand for employees to fill roles in high-paying fields such as STEM, business, and healthcare. We got to work, and the result was our comprehensive polytechnic model, which offers transformative experiences across all disciplines – humanities, arts, education, health sciences, business, and STEM.

Seeing students benefit from this comprehensive polytechnic model over the last six years has been the best indicator that this active approach to education is ideal for our students, our University, and our community. Helping students graduate career ready makes every day a great day to be a Trailblazer.

Richard B. Williams President, Dixie State University

Dixie State Partners with Pluralsight to Support Technology Skill Development

To help all students augment their education with technologybased skills, Dixie State has partnered with Pluralsight to give students as well as faculty and staff unlimited access to Pluralsight Skills’ thousands of online courses and handson learning experiences on innovative technology topics. Additionally, alumni have access to Pluralsight Skills at a discounted rate.

This partnership will help students compete in an increasingly digital world by granting them access to classes on topics such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI and machine learning, data science, and software development.

“I’m graduating soon so I want to make sure I have the skills to get the job that I want. I used Pluralsight Skills to learn an additional programming language so I could be a triple-threat in the job market,” Brooklyn Price, an Applied and Computational Math major, said. “Pluralsight Skills allows students to get a jump start on their careers because they can better market themselves to prospective employers by showing that they have these added skills.”

More information about this partnership is available at pluralsight.dixie.edu.

Digital Forensics Crime Lab Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary

Dixie State University’s globally recognized Digital Forensics Crime Lab is celebrating its 10th anniversary of offering students hands-on experience.

Under faculty supervision, students work on ongoing cases from around the world. “It’s a differentiator for the students that no one else has,” Mark Spooner, director of the crime lab, said. “Our student-interns get real-world experience interacting with real-world organizations and it sets them apart from the rest.”

Over the last decade, the lab has conducted trainings for over 110 law enforcement agencies across the globe and offers analyses and extraction of data of cellphones, computers, and other types of digital media to use as evidence in criminal cases. “When we have phones or other electronic devices that we need analyzed for a case, we bring them to the DSU crime lab and the service is amazing,” FBI Special Agent Jon McPherson said. “DSU’s team is capable, fast, and wonderful to work with.”

In addition to the lab, Dixie State is the only university in Utah to offer a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with emphases in Criminology and Digital Defense & Security.

Student Enrollment Increases for Sixth Consecutive Year

Supported by six consecutive years of student growth, Dixie State University welcomed its largest-ever student body for the 2021-22 academic year.

According to official enrollment numbers released by the Utah System of Higher Education, Dixie State’s fall 2021 student population consisted of 12,266 individuals, an increase of 1.85 percent from last year’s total headcount. Demonstrating the longevity and sustainability of the University’s growth,

Dixie State’s third-week fall enrollment has increased by 44.25 percent since the Fall 2015 semester, when the institution welcomed 8,503 students to campus.

Women are leading the way in the University’s total headcount, with 58 percent of the entire student population comprised of females. Additionally, 81 percent of the student body are Utah residents and 21 percent come from diverse populations.

Two New Buildings Added to Campus This Year

To accommodate the growing student population, Dixie State added two new buildings this academic year. The Science, Engineering & Technology Building houses 28 specialized labs and classrooms, and Campus View Suites II opened its doors to 534 students this fall.

The SET Building is home to the cutting-edge equipment and premier learning opportunities students need to meet workforce demands upon graduation. “Every square foot of the of the 120,000-square-foot building has been intentionally designed for student experiences and learning,” Eric Pedersen, dean of the College of Science, Engineering & Technology, said. “It is clear to me that this building will provide many wonderful hands-on, career-oriented student experiences in science, engineering, and technology for decades to come. These experiences will prepare students for their careers and for their lives.”

Across campus, the new student housing complex almost doubled the number of students living on campus. Suites feature shared kitchenettes and living space as well as a variety of bedroom options. Additionally, the facility includes a large courtyard, pickleball courts, an outdoor hammock garden, a fitness room, lounges, and community kitchens.

“Campus View Suites II offers many more students the opportunity to take advantage of living on campus and the associated benefits of increased retention rates, camaraderie with peers, and living seconds away from classes and campus resources,” Seth Gubler, director of housing and resident life, said.

DSU Police Earns ABLE Certification, Notable Awards

To prevent misconduct, avoid mistakes, and promote officer wellness, DSU Police recently became the first agency in Utah to gain Active Bystander for Law Enforcement certification.

“ABLE brings additional dedication to ethical and transparent policing practices while empowering all officers regardless of rank or tenure to step in and de-escalate situations that could escalate into use of force scenarios or verbal altercations,” Blair Barfuss, chief of police at Dixie State, said.

While DSU Police is currently the only ABLE-certified agency in Utah, Barfuss hopes to change that. Both Barfuss and Corporal Ola Kaonohi are ABLE-certified instructors and are helping bring ABLE to multiple agencies statewide.

Bringing more recognition to DSU Police, Vice President of Administrative Affairs Paul Morris was honored with the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators’ 2020-21 Award for Innovations in Community Oriented Policing. Morris worked closely with Barfuss to create two positions dedicated to community-oriented policing and a comprehensive transparency website.

In addition to Morris’ honor, Ron Bridge, captain of DSU Police, was nominated for the association’s Excellence in Administration award.

Additionally, this January, DSU Police Officer Juan FulgencioMilan was awarded Utah NAACP’s First Responder Award for his outstanding community service. “Officer Juan, as he is known around campus, utilizes valued Latinx heritage and unique and personal experiences to continually encourage and motivate many students on campus, guiding them toward success, including a large percentage of first-generation and minority students of which many look to him as an example and role model,” Barfuss said.

DSU Opens Trailblazer Center for Lifelong Health & Wellness

Dixie State University’s Exercise Science Program recently launched the Trailblazer Center for Lifelong Health & Wellness to help Southern Utahns engage in healthy lifestyles.

As part of the center’s mission, students develop and lead health and wellness programs for Washington County residents of all ages and abilities to help improve their overall quality of life. In return, the community participants, known as mentors, provide the students with feedback that helps students gain skills and confidence to be successful in their studies and future careers.

“What makes this center different is its focus on community members serving as mentors for our students,” Lori Newell, the center’s director, said. “We want community mentors to play an active and vital role in the training and success of our students.”

While the center focuses on health and wellness, it involves students studying within a variety of academic disciplines. In addition to students in the Exercise Science Program leading classes in yoga, fitness, dance, and other forms of exercise, Computer Science students help expand virtual reality exercise programs by developing apps, games, and software. Additionally, music and art students teach classes

for mentors with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, and Humanities and Psychology students assist with intake forms and connect mentors with helpful resources.

To learn more about Trailblazer Center for Lifelong Health & Wellness, visit health.dixie.edu/trailblazer-center.

Summer in transforms students into industry professionals

DSU students gain real-world experience filming a television series abroad

sTORY by Kaylee Cluff || DESIGN BY ADRIANA HOWARD, ‘18

Not many college students can say they spent a month producing a television series in the remote lush Irish countryside, but sixteen Dixie State University students can. Green rolling hills surrounded by beautiful lakes created the perfect backdrop for filming the series Groundbreaking.

There is no better way to prepare students to be industry professionals than to give them real-life experiences that allow them to apply what they learn in class, believes Patrick Smith, an assistant professor and the director of the University’s Digital Film Program. Plus, this philosophy aligns perfectly with the University’s “active learning. active life.” approach to learning that encourages students, faculty, and staff to create and participate in personalized hands-on opportunities both in and out of the classroom.

For Smith, this translates to making the film industry real for his students like it became real to him. Despite having the childhood dream to make movies, he initially started in medical school. It wasn’t until he had a lifechanging opportunity to visit another country and see the filming process in action that his childhood dream was realized. “I went to study abroad in New Zealand and was visiting all the Lord of the Rings film locations when

I stumbled on the filming of the Chronicles of Narnia,” Smith said. “That’s when it became real for me. People get paid to do this, and then that was it. It was film for me.”

Paying the experience forward, Smith provided this opportunity to DSU students, sponsored entirely through his private production company that had been conceptualizing Groundbreaking for the past four years.

“You can talk about filmmaking all you want in class, and it can be helpful to learn theory to apply later but, being in that environment and seeing how professionals would do it is like taking four classes at once and then replicating it,” Smith said.

Student Kayla Underhill exemplified DSU’s “active learning. active life.” motto by jumping into the Ireland opportunity head first, despite having no previous film experience. She did, however, have a passion to learn.

Underhill was brought onto the Ireland shoot as a “fascinating case study,” Smith shared. “As a team, we thought it would be really important to bring at least one freshman onto the shoot so they could gain this experience and report back to their peers.”

This adventure that changed her life gave Underhill the confidence to pursue a degree in film. “I had to learn everything from the very beginning while everyone else already had experience with the positions on set,” Underhill explained. Despite undergoing these unique challenges, Underhill was exposed to different cultures, languages, and experiences. As Underhill spent her mornings wading in bone-chilling water watching the fog roll in as the sun rose, an Irish actress shared her cultural belief that the cold water is good for the body and a great way to start the day.

“I don’t think this type of exchange would have happened if we visited five countries,” Smith shared. “Even though COVID shut the whole country down, these students were having a cultural exchange happening every single night.”

In line with the University’s dedication to cultivating opportunities to help students thrive while attending DSU and in future endeavors and careers, Smith hopes that every department will look to the Ireland experience as a model for connecting students with industry professionals.

“One thing we talked about with the students early on was that they were not coming out here to be students but to be interns on a professional set. It was meant to feel as industry standard as it could have,” Smith said. “It was all an adventure, and the students were amazing.”

HOT ON THE TRAIL

WENDI BULKLEY, ’00

Wendi Prince Bulkley has been involved with Dixie State University for over 20 years. As a current member of the Trailblazer Athletic Advisory Board and sponsor of DSU, Wendi is a staunch supporter and plans to be until her dying day. “I will always be involved with the University that I love,” Wendi said.

Wendi’s contributions to the success of the University began as a freshman in 1998, when she came to Dixie College and served as a student ambassador and recruiter. She graduated with her associate degree in business and even met her husband, Jake, in Ed Roger’s leadership class. Jake also served as an ambassador, and the couple now have four children – Bailey, Boston and twins Cooper and Campbell. They live locally in St. George

and love attending University events as a family. Wendi also served as a member of the Board of Trustees as the Student Body President in 2000, and later got the nickname Mrs. Dixie from co-workers when she worked on campus for over four years as the Associate Athletic Director of External Relations. In this role, she revolutionized the community outreach program and introduced student-athletes to thousands of local elementary children each year to teach them about health, wellness, internet safety, and saying no to drugs.

In 2006, Wendi founded the Student Alumni Association and served on the alumni board for nine years with hopes to rejoin this fall.

Wendi’s favorite part about working at DSU was running halftime shows at athletic events and her kids loved wearing the official headset. “Cooper acted like he owned the place,” Wendi said as she

reflected on her time at DSU. Currently, Cooper serves as the Brooks’ Buddies Kids Club President.

Wendi is committed to the success of the University and especially loves rubbing shoulders with students. She currently teaches as an adjunct faculty member for the Sports/Recreation Department.

“My advice to students is to get involved, create memories, and seek out friendships that will last a lifetime,” says Wendi. “You create the college experience that you want.”

“I will always be involved with the University that I love.”

“My advice to students is to get involved, create memories, and seek out friendships that will last a lifetime. You create the college experience that you want.”

STORIES BY STACY SCHMIDT, ’91 & BROOKE ULRICH DESIGN BY TRUE JARRELL & DANNY FINNEGAN

JIMMY SORENSON, ’04 & KEN HENDRICKSON, ’08

Together, business partners Jimmy Sorenson and Ken Hendrickson have discovered the secret to a successful and fulfilling business. “Focus on your employees and your customers first, try to do everything you can to make their lives easier, and the money will follow,” Ken said.

Ken and Jimmy are co-founders of Easy Storage Solutions, a software system that helps businesses manage their storage facilities through tenant acquisition and management, billing, access control, and more.

Ken and Jimmy met in a business class at Dixie, where they quickly became friends and discovered their shared love for Southern Utah. “There’s just so much to do

down here,” Ken said. “It’s a well-rounded balance of being able to experience an education and enjoy all the recreation.”

Ken earned his bachelor’s degree in business with an emphasis in finance from DSU. Jimmy earned his associate degree at Dixie and then went on to earn his bachelor’s in business with an emphasis in marketing from Utah Valley University.

They started Easy Storage Solutions after Ken experienced frustration trying to rent storage units. “I always dreaded it because it was such a pain. You had to go through all this work just to find an empty container to throw your stuff in,” he said.

They identified a gap in the market and focused on that. “When we came on the

scene, our competitors were focused on the big dogs,” Jimmy said. “We focused on the smaller guys with 100 units. It was more work but we didn’t care.”

Their company grew quickly due to quality service and word-of-mouth marketing. They ultimately grew Easy Storage Solutions to more than 100 employees before selling it to Storable in 2020. Now, the entrepreneurial pair is creating and growing something new. Partnering with Ken’s brother Nate, they’ve started another company called Easy HOA, a management software for Homeowner Associations. For more information, visit easyhoa.com.

“We like to solve problems and create or grow something,” Ken said.

“Focus on your employees and your customers first, try to do everything you can to make their lives easier, and the money will follow.”

SCOTT GUBLER, ’75 & MARK GUBLER, ’79

Brothers Scott and Mark Gubler share many fond memories of their time attending Dixie College. Scott was the student body president, ran track, and participated in the Great Race during D-Week.

Mark got involved in the Program Bureau, where he met his wife just one hour after being released from serving a mission for his church. All four of their children also attended Dixie. “It’s really a family school for us,” Mark said.

Scott and Mark both earned their associate degrees at Dixie. Scott went on to earn his bachelor’s in business finance and then ultimately a law degree from Brigham Young University. Mark also earned a bachelor’s in finance from BYU and then his master’s in business administration from the University of Utah.

After graduating and practicing law for a few years, Scott came back to St.

George and started Deseret Laboratories Incorporated. This new chapter began when he filed a 1,500-acre claim on gypsum that their maternal grandfather had originally filed and began mining and processing the mineral for use in pharmaceutical products.

Mark worked for Humana Hospital as a controller in Houston and Huntington Beach for a few years and then joined Deseret Laboratories, Inc., helping it become a full turnkey contract manufacturer with Scott serving as the chief executive officer and Mark as the chief operating officer. Together, they have grown the company from a two-man operation in 10,000 square feet to nearly 200 employees in 175,000 square feet. “We’ve added onto this building 15 times,” Mark said. “We’re creating about 1,000 products now.”

As one of the largest contract manufacturers of dietary supplements and

pharmaceutical products in the Western United States, Deseret Laboratories’ items are shipped all around the world. “We didn’t plan any of this, we just took advantage of opportunities,” Mark said. “We would say yes and figure it out.”

From running the Great Race to running a worldwide company, Scott enjoys every new challenge. He said their latest project involves working with the president of Uganda, helping 15 million children access COVID test kits and get back to school in the face of a lingering pandemic.

For more information about Deseret Laboratories, visit deseretlabs.com.

“It’s really a family school for us.”

BRIAN MCCANN, ’05

Brian McCann’s experience at Dixie State had a lasting impact on him. Right from the start, he had an interest in both engineering and business. “College really helped me understand some basics in engineering that still help me today,” Brian said. “We also had access to the professors all the time, which really helped out a lot.”

Brian also got involved in student government as well as the Future Business Leaders of America–Phi Beta Lambda club, where his team competed at Nationals in Florida. “We won second place out of thousands of students competing,” he said. “I formed some great relationships at Dixie and made friendships there that I still have today.”

From there, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in business management from Brigham Young University and then a master’s in business administration from Southern Utah University. Today, Brian runs Intergalactic, an aerospace company building advanced thermal management systems for the commercial aviation, defense, and space sectors.

RAM Company – a 45-year-old full-scale manufacturing company – acquired the majority share of Intergalactic in 2019 and asked Brian to serve as President and CEO at that time.

“Within four to five months of the acquisition, things took off like a rocket ship. It just went that fast,” Brian said.

That’s because the company uses modern technology to completely redesign thermal management in aerospace. “The net result is that we are rejecting about 400 percent more heat than anyone else.”

Moving forward, Brian says the Intergalactic team is delving into even more cutting-edge technology. “We are positioning ourselves to be the thermal management integrator of record –surpassing in lead time, design time, robustness, all the things that major companies care about in these markets.”

Looking back on his journey so far, Brian’s advice for current DSU students is to “find your own voice,” he said. “It’s scary, but get that experience and get in an industry

where you want to grow. That’s where you’ll learn to trust your voice and build that inner confidence.”

“College really helped me understand some basics in engineering that still help me today.”

Teralin Petereit

NAVIGATING THROUGH COLLEGE WITH PASSION

Navigating life and chasing personal passions comes without a clear roadmap. For DSU nursing student Teralin Petereit, however, passion is what drives her to pursue a career in the field of healthcare and follow her love for off-roading.

When she was just 17 years old, Tera found her passion for off-roading at an Easter Jeep Safari event. A complete stranger at the time, now known to her as Grandpa George, let her drive his 1980s Toyota truck up Potato Salad Hill in Moab. Instantly, Tera knew she needed to have an off-roading truck of her own.

After finding an ’87 pickup, Tera built her truck into a rock crawler through hard work and persistence. With the aid of friends and help from YouTube, Tera learned the details of her truck inside and out. With a smile, she proudly says she built the whole thing. “Learning to work on it and building it myself was important to me,” Tera said. “I wanted to be able to fix anything that could go wrong on it.”

Nothing gets her adrenaline racing more than driving up tough obstacles and pushing her buggy’s limits.

Story By Allie Garrow, ’22 || Design by Adriana Howard, ’18

“I think it’s important to find passions in life. Find things that make you happy, and go after them,” Tera said. “There were plenty of nights working late, hands and fingernails covered in grease, exhausted, that I wanted to throw the truck in the dumpster and find an easier hobby. But, man, did I feel happy when I would get an upgrade installed, and my truck could climb new obstacles. I love being out on the trails and pushing the limits in that old girl.”

This past October, Teralin and her off-roading partner Nena Barlow took first place for their sponsor, Jeep, in the 4x4 class division at the 2021 Rebelle Rally. This eight-day competition challenges competitors’ precise navigation skills without the use of cell phones or GPS.

“Her chosen sport takes hard work, the ability to adapt to change, and the grit to finish the race,” Nursing Department Chair Judy Scott said. “All three of those are also needed for a nursing student to be successful.”

During the pandemic, Tera sustained a leg injury that would take surgery and two years of recovery. This experience is what motivates her to become an incredible nurse. “After my traumatic injury, I found another passion in healthcare,” Tera said. “I want to be a good nurse, I want to make a difference in people’s lives, and I want to know my nursing skills inside and out.”

Despite the hard work that is required to succeed in the nursing program, Tera is determined to follow her passion. “Some nights when I’m exhausted, sleep deprived, and doing homework, I want to give up, but I don’t because I know putting in the work now will pay off.”

After all, passion is what it’s all about. “I think it’s important to find things you love, make a plan, and make them happen.”

“I think it’s important to find passions in life. Find things that make you happy and go after them.”

FOCAL POINT

STORY BY AUBREY SEAMONS DESIGN BY DANNY FINNEGAN

Jordan Palmer is a Digital Film major from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. His interest in photography and film began in high school, when he and his friends created a short film together. Since then, he has sought out opportunities to participate in film projects. He initially went to Southern Alberta Institute of Technology before transferring to Dixie State University to continue his education.

In his opinion, the most important elements of a good photo are composition, subject, and color. “Composition is the bedrock of your image, and then on top of that is your subject. Color is another important thing.”

His advice to photography beginners is to “shoot in manual mode and learn what all those different tools do, like your shutter, aperture, and ISO. Really understand what those contribute to your image, and just go from there.”

“Space is just so fascinating. It’s so cool to sit out there under the stars and get back into Photoshop and see what you can do.”

Cathedral Gorge State Park, NV

Outside of Capitol Reef National Park, UT

Antelope Island, UT

“There was one time we were out in Zion Mountain Ranch, which is a little bison sanctuary on the east side of Zion, and we were running around on their feed truck. So, I was sitting on top of a bale of hay and the bison were eating hay like three inches away from my feet.” Palmer hopes to photograph more bison in the future.

“They were just magnificent! There were like a hundred of them in a herd and we would just go chase around these different herds.”

Outside of Zion National Park, UT

Antelope Island, UT

TRAILBLAZING THE

THE FUTURE

W E ’v E BEEN T RAI l B l A z ER s

W E ’v E BEEN T RAI l B l A z ER s

s IN c E T h E BEGINNING .

s IN c E T h E BEGINNING .

When St. George’s earliest settlers packed up their belongings and traveled to the southern region of Utah, they brought with them courage, tenacity, and hope. Every generation since has continued to build on the past, evolving into the future with vision, a willingness to take risks, and a relentless commitment to success – blazing new trails at every turn.

Now, as the campus community of this 111-year-old institution of higher education embarks on a new path, embracing an institutional name centered around handson learning and career readiness, they do so with the same conviction as the Trailblazers who came before them.

As part of this evolution, and under the legislative statute of House Bill 2001, Dixie State University’s name will officially change to Utah Tech University on July 1, 2022. According to University President Richard “Biff” Williams, this is a pivotal step in the continued growth of the institution and surrounding region.

“The vision of Utah Tech University is one that will broaden our reach and ensure students are ready to enter the workforce in the most needed areas,” Williams said. “We’ve created a future that’s going to be unparalleled but also gives a nod to our past. If you directly correlate where we are now and compare that to those who pulled up in wagons with nothing, you’ll recognize a shared theme of vision, grit, and determination.”

BOTTOM REPRESENTS RED ROCKS OF REGION

STORY BY STACY SCHMIDT, ’91 || DESIGN BY SCOTT GARRETT, ’15

T h E BA c K s TORY T h E BA c K s TORY

This significant step of changing the University’s name was not taken hastily, said Julie Beck, who served on the Board of Trustees during the recommendation process and chaired the Name Recommendation Committee. The committee was created in line with the legislative mandate to gather input about the institutional name from students, University personnel, community members, and industry leaders. “This process was one of the most visible, notable, and comprehensive rebrands the state has ever experienced. It included three major studies, tens of thousands of completed surveys, approximately 1,000 focus group participants, and nearly two years of data collection and preparation.”

The Utah State Legislature ultimately approved the Utah Tech University name by passing HB2001 in November of 2021. Shortly thereafter, Utah State Governor Spencer Cox signed it into law. “When the legislators approved the Utah Tech name, I was ecstatic, honestly,” said Deven Osborne, who served on the Name Recommendation Committee and is a wideout for the Trailblazer Football team. “When it finally happened, I called my dad. He’s been adamant about the name change since I got here and look at us now.”

Osborne said he worked with a number of extraordinary people along with way. “This process brought people from all different backgrounds together,” he said. “The biggest thing I learned throughout this process is that relationships matter and you can really build them here at Utah Tech University.”

T h E NEW BRAND T h E NEW BRAND

The Utah Tech University brand was developed through an inclusive and comprehensive process. There were hundreds of considerations for the new name and logo including trademark matters, best practices, name, acronym, domain availability, and more. All of this was rooted in state legislation, which required that the name reflect the institution’s mission and significance to the surrounding region and state, as well as enable the institution to compete and be recognized nationally.

“When combined, the new name and logo fulfill this mandate in a spectacular way,” Vice President of Marketing & Communication Jordon Sharp said. “The logo design features both the shape and the acronym of our state. The logo’s colors pay homage to the red rocks and blue skies of Southern Utah while also representing the cooler weather of Northern Utah and the warmer climate of Southern Utah.”

approach to learning. Sharp added that the logo design has a more modern feel to capture the institution’s futurefocused mission, while the term university establishes the comprehensive nature of the institution.

Osborne says he is thrilled with the end result. He is excited about the left side of the ‘U’ because he feels it strongly resembles a number one, which is emblazoned on his football jersey. “This new logo and concept of who we are will really cement us in my eyes for the next 100 years, especially with how fast we’re growing,” Osborne said.

According to Sharp, “This new brand is a culmination of more than 100 years of relentless trailblazing from thousands of innovators who have come before us. This is yet another example of our community’s willingness to sacrifice, pivot, and forge a new and stronger path when necessary.”

The separation symbolizes the horizon lines so prominent in our area

T h E FUTURE OF T h E FUTURE OF

BLUE ON TOP REPRESENTS SKIES OF SOUTHERN UTAH

For more information or to download the new Utah Tech logo visit utahtech.edu/brand.

THE FUTURE

BOTTOM REPRESENTS RED ROCKS OF REGION

with the support of visionary people like Sandra and Hans de Haan.

The son of European refugees with no higher education, Hans prospered after coming to the United States as an immigrant. He graduated first in his class from medical school at London University, largely as a result of his parents’ insistence that he go to college along with the help of scholarships. With the benefit of degrees in pharmacology and psychology, Hans’s 50+ year career included clinical practice, research, and teaching.

Sandra was raised in a family of nine children. Education beyond high school and a successful career came later in her life since it wasn’t an option immediately after high school. “We believe that a solid education still offers anyone, but especially immigrants willing to make the extra effort, the possibility of also realizing the American dream like we have,” Sandra said. Sandra and Hans remain lifelong learners and, in their retirement, appreciate both the facilities and various programs available to them at DSU.

In the rapidly expanding St. George area, Sandra and Hans said they believe the University is a critical driver for the city’s diversification and future prosperity. “Focusing on education is one of the keys to building healthy societies. We feel the need to contribute to the University’s growth, especially now that we have the time and resources to do so.”

Under Shadman’s leadership, the International Students & Scholars office piqued the de Haan’s interest. With students from 49 countries, Shadman and his team provide immigration guidance, academic resources, cultural connections, and social events to encourage and enrich them. “Shadman is an enthusiast. We are so impressed with the dedication and incredible effort he’s making to find, welcome, and sustain foreign students in their studies,” said Hans. “We enjoy finding creative ways to support these young adults, especially since many have never experienced anything beyond the borders of their own countries. We hope that our modest contributions will enable them to study diligently, take advantage of the many opportunities DSU offers for enrichment, to graduate, and someday make their own important contributions to society.”

Shadman says the impact of support from people like the de Haans is significant. “Many of these students are, like Sandra and Hans, trying to realize their American dreams,” he said. “In a broader sense, supporting our

international program means being part of something bigger, something global even.”

Hans and Sandra understand this, and are dedicated to the program’s continued success. They said they hope others from the community will join them in helping to grow the program.

“Especially for those from abroad seeking higher education, the secret is not to forget the many ways others helped us along the way to success,” Hans said. “Some are still around to thank but many have either died or may not even have been recognized at the time. Thus, paying it forward in later life is both important and rewarding to us.”

For more information about the International Students & Scholars Office visit international.dixie.edu or, to make a tax-deductible donation, go to giving.dixie.edu.

“IN A BROADER SENSE, SUPPORTING OUR INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM MEANS BEING PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER, SOMETHING GLOBAL EVEN.”

The Booth Honors Program at Dixie State University

Congratulates Students Graduating with Honors

Distinction in

2022

Serina A. Dudleston

Associate of Science

Saint George, UT

Corey R. Gardner

Associate of Science in Criminal Justice

Kimball, NE

Allyson M. Rolfe

Associate of Science Holtville, CA

Benjamin M. Burcham

Associate of Science

Alamo, NV

Jaryn V. Anderson

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Annabella, UT

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Salem, OR

Jonathan A. Tuscano

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Saint George, UT

Lindsey E. Stutman

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Upper Saddle River, NJ

Noelle R. Karr

Bachelor of Science

in Psychology

Saint George , UT

Karina A. Larsen

Bachelor of Fine

Arts in Studio Art Provo, UT

Dresdan C. Quackenbush

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Saint George, UT

Cutler C. Cowdin

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Saint George , UT

Michael J. Guynn

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Salt Lake City, UT

Derek N. Petersen

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Queen Creek, AZ

Gbolahan

Emmanuel Ogunwa

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Lagos, Nigeria

Danielle Whitlock

Bachelor of Science in Applied Sociology

Saint George, UT

Ashlee M. Roundy

Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Tooele, UT

Alexa L. Hetherington

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Santa Clarita, CA

Desiree M. Johnson

Bachelor of Science in

Individualized Studies

Saint George, UT

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Jacilynne Y. Cook-Dandos Farmington, UT

John D. McLendon

Bachelor of Science in Management Washington, UT

Dylan D. Healy Taylorsville, UT

Bachelor of Science in Finance

Jonah M. Blom

Malia H. Adamson

Bachelor of Science

Bachelor of Science in Computer & IT Casper, W Y in Design

Preston, ID

STORY BY ABBIGAIL JONES

DESIGN BY MACY WAGNER

Consistent hard work and discipline is the foundation of success. Dixie State Men’s Head Basketball Coach Jon Judkins has epitomized just that for nearly 30 seasons, which has led him to become the all-time winningest head coach in Utah college basketball history.

Judkins, who began his college career as a player at Dixie College and graduated with an associate degree in 1984 before moving on to Utah State, has been coaching basketball since his playing career ended in 1988. He started as an assistant coach at Snow College, then became the interim head coach in 1992. Judkins had the interim tag removed after that season and stayed in Ephraim as the Badgers’ head coach until 2005, when he returned to Utah’s Dixie.

The longtime DSU mentor brought 284 coaching victories with him to St. George, and he more than doubled that win total through his first 16 years roaming the Burns Arena sidelines.

Entering the 2021-22 season, Judkins had compiled a 293-146 overall record, which included a 273-134 mark in DSU’s NCAA era. Along the way, his teams won a combined seven conference regular season championships, two conference tournament crowns, and made nine NCAA Division II Tournament appearances, highlighted by a Sweet 16 run in 2011.

Judkins also began the season with two career milestones in sight. He stood seven wins shy of his 300th-career victory at Dixie State, but before he could accomplish that feat, there was another mountain top to reach.

And he reached it on Dec. 15, when his Trailblazers defeated SAGU American Indian College by a lopsided 114-49. That victory, the 583rd of his career, moved him past legendary Utah women’s coach Elaine Elliott (582-324) to top the Utah collegiate coaching wins list.

Then in the Trailblazers’ next game at North Dakota (12/18), he recorded his 300th-career win at DSU with a 78-69 road triumph.

Though Judkins knew the importance of those two wins, he was quick to point out that he did not do it alone, noting that a lot of the credit belongs to the hard work, preparation, and dedication of the many assistant coaches and student-athletes who have passed through his program.

“He instills the hard work and preparation,” said DSU alumnus Trevor Hill, who played for Judkins from 2015 to 2018. “His players go onto the court with confidence knowing Judkins has put them in a good position.”

Hill said reaching Judkins’ expectations begins with focusing on small goals which will lead to the bigger goals. “Coach oftentimes reminds the team to take care of all the little things so the bigger picture can be reached.”

That bigger picture is to have the Trailblazer basketball program prepared for the 2024-25 season, when it is finally eligible to play in the NCAA Tournament. With Dixie State’s current transition from NCAA Division II to Division I status, which began in the 2020-21 season, the Trailblazers are ineligible for NCAA postseason play for two more years.

According to Judkins, facing the better coaches and tougher teams that come with being in Division I athletics has helped his players make a “big jump” this season – giving Judkins hope that “When the time comes, we’re ready to go.”

THE TRAILBLAZERS ACCUMULATED 2,247 POINTS DURING THEIR 2020-2021 SEASON AT AN AVERAGE OF 72.5 POINTS PER GAME.

TRAILBLAZER ATHLETICS

Keeping up with the constant growth of competitors is not easy; however, Judkins is able to do so by using the four P’s – play hard, play together, play smart, play physical. Judkins feels that “If we play that way, we have the chance to beat anybody.”

Former player Kasey Winters saw the effectiveness of this approach and built the four P’s into his coaching strategy when coaching at Crimson Cliffs High School.

Not only does Winters value Judkins in the basketball world but also, “as a husband, father, son, brother, and friend. There are things that I can look at and say, I got this from coach Judkins,” Winters said. Former and current players have similar views of Judkins. They all value his gracious efforts of simply being him.

Hill fondly refers to Judkins as Juddy and says the amount of time Judkins spends in the locker room forging relationships is the culture any player wants to be around. “He does a great job cultivating that,” Hill said. “I take my hat off to him.”

Hunter Schofield, a recent graduate who played for Judkins from 2019 to 2022, has felt a similar appreciation for his coach. “He cares about his players, not only as basketball players but, just as people. I feel like he really cares about what’s going on in our lives, making sure that we’re doing good off the court just as much as we are on the court.”

There is an obvious brotherhood in Trailblazer Basketball between Judkins and his players. The exhilarating wins and heartbreaking losses have tightened the bond making “coaching the next best thing to playing,” said Judkins. “I still get the highs and lows. I still get the butterflies before every game.”

“There are days where you wonder what the heck you’re doing. After a big loss, you’re like ‘why am I doing this?’” Judkins said. “But there’s more positive than negative.”

Following the record-breaking victory over SAGU-AIC last December, Judkins received a well-deserved celebration in the locker room. “They blasted me with the water,” Judkins said. “It was pretty fun.”

This accomplishment, along with many others, will provide exciting stories to tell his grandkids when he retires; but for now, Judkins said he will just take it game by game.

notable moments

“As a husband, father, son, brother, and friend, there are things that I can look at and say, I got this from coach Judkins.”

Medical laboratory scientists are healthcare professionals who perform analyses and provide physicians with vital results used to diagnose, monitor, and treat disease. Medical laboratory scientists are skilled in clinical chemistry, hematology, diagnostic microbiology, immunology, blood banking, and transfusion medicine.

According to the United States Department of Labor, the employment of medical laboratory scientists is projected to grow 11% in the next ten years. Furthermore, the wage for lab scientists is approximately between $54,000 and $67,000 per year in the U.S.

Evening

Dixie Awards of

Story by Allie Garrow, ’22 Design by Anna Nuss

Building off Evening of Dixie’s storied tradition of honoring alumni and community members for their meaningful contributions to Trailblazer Nation and beyond, this D-Week staple did not disappoint this year. Five amazing Trailblazers were recognized for making a difference in the world around them.

“We’re very fortunate to have alumni who have given so much to the University and surrounding community,” Alumni Association President Betty Barnum said. “This is the highlight of D-Week for me because it gives us an opportunity to recognize and pay tribute to these extraordinary awardees.”

LaRee McAllister Jones, ’87

LaRee embodies a spirit of passion, hard work, and love. Throughout her 25 years of service on the Dixie College Theater Council, her love for the University has always been evident. She has consistently enriched the lives of Dixie alumni and the community through the overall sense of belonging she has promoted on Dixie State’s campus.

“Life consists of stages. As you advance through each stage, watch for ways to be of service,” she said. “The happiest people I know are those who serve the most. Service is a small price we pay for living in this world of ours.”

Delmont Truman Dixie Spirit Award

Kenny developed a deep loyalty to the University while attending and subsequently teaching at Dixie. Kenny’s long-standing love for the University continued as he dedicated time and energy serving on numerous boards, including the Alumni Association Board for 15 years.

“I’m honored to be receiving this award because I love the University and what it has done for me and my life,” he said. “I have made connections at Dixie that would not have been possible without getting involved around campus.”

Hilda Cox Empey, ’71 Roene B. DiFiore Program Bureau Award

Hilda’s beautiful singing voice and appreciation for music have opened many doors for her throughout her life. She said Roene DiFiore was a major influence in Hilda’s life starting when she joined the Program Bureau in 1969. Hilda has attended almost every

University program or event, bringing her contagious enthusiasm, charisma, musicianship, and goodwill to every event.

“Receiving this award is a great honor and means so much to me,” she said. “I loved Momma D and was blessed to know her.”

Shauna Ottesen, ’85 Community Award

After earning her Associate of Science in 1985, Shauna dedicated immeasurable time to bettering the Southern Utah community, including countless hours as a member of the Alumni Association Board and serving as an editor of the DSU Magazine. Embedding her leadership and service throughout the region, Shauna has made a significant difference to those who have had the pleasure of interacting with her.

“To me, the word community embodies the Dixie Spirit, which is being friendly, helpful, involved, and caring about people. It means giving back and paying it forward. It means quality and doing your best not just for yourself but

because you can,” she said. “Receiving the Community Award means a great deal to me but I also want to recognize the wonderful institutions and fantastic people that have created and continue to uphold the Dixie Spirit of this great community.”

Stephanie is a leader, innovator, and influencer who is not afraid to blaze new trails in an effort to make a lasting difference for her peers and within her community.

“Being selected for this award allowed me to reflect on my professional and personal life thus far, and it made me realize how blessed I am to have had the opportunities I’ve had,” she said. “Community involvement is and always will be an immense passion of mine. I’m very lucky to be a part of such a wonderful community, and I love being a Trailblazer.”

Nominations for the Evening of Dixie Awards are submitted by alumni and community members and then vetted through the Alumni Awardee Committee, co-chaired by Margaret Truman Marshall and ElnaRae Snow Page. For more information about the awardees or the Alumni Association, visit alumni.dixie. edu.

Stephanie Sparks, ’14 Outstanding Trailblazer Award

Kenneth Austin Miller, ’96 The Rebel Award

Dear Alumni & Friends,

I’m honored to be part of the DSU Alumni Association Board and to be able to connect with alumni and University personnel. I especially appreciate being close enough to watch and understand more about the amazing growth and changes happening at our University. It’s extremely different from what I experienced when I attended Dixie Junior College.

This quote from Winston Churchill has helped me to accept and understand the significant changes along the way:

Change is so hard! However, as I explore this dynamic new campus, I believe we are getting closer to perfect. Come take a tour and see for yourself. If it has been a while since you’ve been on campus, please call the DSU Alumni House at 435652-7535 and come see this exciting, changing part of our community.

I’m also honored to be part of the Heritage Committee that was initiated by our Utah State Legislature to find ways to celebrate and preserve the regional spirit and message that we know as the Dixie Spirit. I’m proud that so many people have the desire to enhance and support our pioneering history without being divisive. Watch for more updates about the results of the Heritage Committee’s work in the months to come.

In closing, it was a shock to me when I moved back to the Dixie area to see the growth and academic prospects of DSU. Now that you’ve read the DSU Magazine, if you are hungry for more information about DSU and its amazing accomplishments, please read the 2021 Academic Report that was mailed to all the homes in our community and can be found online at umac.dixie.edu/ academic-report. The opportunities that current students have to learn by doing are staggering and also necessary for today’s world.

Thank you and GO TRAILBLAZERS!

Betty Barnum, ’68 DSU Alumni Association President

“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.”

DO YOU HAVE A PASSION FOR YOUR PROFESSION YOU’D LOVE TO SHARE WITH DIXIE STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS?

Become

a part-time instructor at DSU!

Requirements include:

■

Master’s degree in related field for lower division courses

■ Doctorate degree for upper division courses

■ Demonstrated knowledge of course content

■ Teaching experience in higher education preferred

Benefits include:

■ Access to the University’s Human Performance Center

■ Mental health and wellness services through the Employee Assistance Program

■ Employee-only tuition waiver

BECOME PART OF OUR TRAILBLAZER NATION TEAM TODAY!

Send an email to Holly.Bates@dixie.edu describing your professional expertise and what courses you are interested in teaching and we will notify you of upcoming teaching opportunities as they are available.