G N I C U D INTRO WSU fans cheered on the Wildcats at Weber State’s first home football game of the season on Sept. 20, 2025. On the same night, the W on the hillside above the Ogden campus was officially lit. BENJAMIN ZACK WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 3 WILDCAT DEPARTMENTS 6 WSU Alumni Magazine Weber Watch Vol. 30, No. 2, Winter 2026 A farewell to Brad, Damian Lillard’s latest gig, David O. McKay Building renovated, Spirit Squad keeps on winning, Day of Giving success, and more 36 EDITOR IN CHIEF Jaime Winston BA ’22 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alumni Leaders Rachel Badali BS ’17, MBA ’22 | Anna Burleson Patrick Carr | Jessica Kokesh MPC ’24 John Kowalewski | Bryan Magaña BS ’06, MA ’09 Jen Wright Get in tune with this year’s alumni leaders. 40 Cooking Class CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Nancy B. Collinwood BS ’94 | John Kowalewski Bryan Magaña BS ’06, MA ’09 | Betsy Mennell Amber Robson BS ’05, MPC ’17 Jill Walker BS ’06, MA ’12 | Jen Wright Touch dirt for this seasonal mocktail. 43 Class Notes CREATIVE DIRECTOR Updates on the careers and achievements of our Weber State alumni 50 Matthew Zacher BFA ’11 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Cats Connect Lauren Davenport BFA ’24 Chelsea Maki BS ’16 Jennilyn Keinsley News you can use from the WSU Alumni Association 52 Wildcat Inbox STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Ryan Ash | Uriel Flores-Monroy Benjamin Zack Staying in touch with alumni and friends WEBER STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2025–26 Keith Titus BS ’02, Chair Lori Belnap Pehrson BS ’87, Vice Chair Brent Bishop | Matt Dixon BA ’98 Mia Foster | Tammy Gallegos Casey Hill BA ’03 | Ally Isom Monet Maggelet | Brad Wilson BS ’92 T H E C A M P A I G N F O R W E B E R S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y ON THE COVER: Illustration by Matt Zacher FEATURES 16 Comments and questions may be sent to Wildcat, Weber State University, 1265 Village Drive Dept 4025, Ogden, UT 84408-4025. The editor may also be contacted by phone at 801-626-7396 or email at magazine@weber.edu. A Season to Amplify 22 Business icon Steve Starks helps launch WSU’s largest fundraising campaign in history. 24 Making an Impact with CATapult CING 30 A Runway for Success Weber State teams with Hill Air Force Base and Utah’s defense industry for more opportunities and support for those who serve. 4 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 POSTMASTER: Meet three inspirational Wildcats who finished at Weber with CATapult scholarships. INTRODU Send address changes to Advancement Services, Weber State University, 1265 Village Drive Dept. 4018, Ogden, UT 84408-4018. Call 801-626-6138 or email giving@weber.edu to update your records. TAKE OUR SURVEY to help shape the future of Wildcat. You can enter to win a Weber State gift package. Send address changes to Advancement Services, Weber State University, 1265 Village Drive Dept. 4018, Ogden, UT 84408-4018. weber.edu/wsumagazine alumni.weber.edu WEBER WATCH PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TEACHERS Weber State students earning degrees in child and family studies and teacher education, along with Graduate Studies in Education students, have entered the next generation of learning in the newly renovated David O. McKay Education Building. Following a two-year, $48.6 million renovation, the facility features abundant natural light, revitalized classroom space with active-learning layouts, and a digital media production lab. Home to the WSU Charter School and Melba S. Lehner Children’s School, the north and east sides of the building feature extensive playground areas that serve as outdoor classrooms. Rachel Badali BS ’17, MBA ’22 Anna Burleson Patrick Carr Ashlee Ellinwood BS ’25 John Kowalewski Bryan Magaña BS ’06, MA ’09 Jaime Winston BA ’22 MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS 6 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 7 WEBER WATCH WEBER WATCH FAREWELL, BRAD WSU President 2018–2025 Brad Mortensen announced his departure from Weber State University in October 2025. Last November, Weber State University President Brad Mortensen stepped down to become the president of Utah State University. While the Wildcat family misses Brad dearly, those close to him are proud to see him become a leader of his alma mater, where he graduated as a first-generation college student. Brad’s departure will allow the next president to build on the many ways he helped WSU become a more integral part of the northern Utah community. Opened as Weber Stake Academy in 1889, the institution grew from 100 elementary and high school students to the open-enrollment public university it is today, serving more than 33,000 students. During the 1950s, when the Utah Legislature and governor planned to end Weber’s status as a public institution, Ogden residents led a movement to reverse the decision. Brad detailed that story during a discussion with higher education leaders at the University of Utah Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute in 2024, saying “We know that Ogden rose up and fought to keep an institution in their community at that point of time, so, at Weber, we have this deep commitment to realize we need to reciprocate that back to Ogden and the greater region.” As president, Brad acted on that idea. He supported the College Town Coalition, an ongoing partnership established during the previous presidency to foster opportunities and collaborations between Ogden City and WSU. Brad established the Miller Advanced Research & Solutions Center, partnering with the Utah Legislature, the U.S. Air Force, and the aerospace and defense industry, to create opportunities for students and faculty to discover real-world solutions to national defense challenges. During his presidency, WSU’s concurrent enrollment program, which allows high school students to take courses for both high school and college credit, became the largest among fouryear institutions in the U.S. The institution also pioneered the first accelerated bachelor’s degree programs in the Utah System of Higher Education, 8 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 allowing WSU to launch 90- to 94-credit bachelor’s degrees; launched TechTransfer, which allows anyone with a Utah technical college certificate to earn up to 21 elective credits toward any undergraduate certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree program; and joined Davis Technical College and Ogden-Weber Technical College in automatically admitting high school seniors in Davis, Morgan, and Weber counties. Brad boasted about WSU’s Center for Community Engaged Learning, which allows students to work with nonprofits and other groups to better the community; and Ogden Civic Action Network, a community development initiative that brings WSU and other local institutions together to address health, education, housing, and financial stability for residents in Ogden’s East Central neighborhood. At a Utah Board of Higher Education meeting to announce Brad as the new USU president, he took time to acknowledge Weber State during his speech. For over 21 years and the last seven years, almost, as president, I have been blessed to work with amazing individuals there who are so passionate about the work that we do together, and I just had a tremendous opportunity at that institution,” he said. Wildcats everywhere wish Brad all the best as he moves forward in his new position and helps strengthen Utah’s higher education landscape. He is always welcome back to the community he helped build. WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 9 WEBER WATCH WEBER WATCH VICE PRESIDENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES LEADING THE WAY Weber State welcomes Interim President Leslie Durham and four new leaders to guide key areas of campus. Mark Halverson, who has held leadership roles at WSU in facilities management, campus planning, and information technology, was selected as the new vice president of Administrative Services in July 2025. In his new role, Halverson oversees essential administrative functions, including information technology, financial services, facilities management, public safety, human resources, and athletics. “Administrative Services has some amazing people supporting our faculty and staff,” he said. “My wish is to continuously improve this support so they can continue to make Weber State great.” INTERIM VICE PRESIDENT OF STUDENT ACCESS & SUCCESS Ali Threet became the interim vice president of Student Access & Success following the recent departure of former vice president Jessica Oyler. She arrived at Weber State last summer as dean of students. During her more than 15 years of higher education leadership experience, including a recent role as assistant vice president and dean of students at Utah Tech University, she has been known for her commitment to a welcoming environment, collaboration, and student success. “My primary goal for students at WSU is to ensure that every student feels like they belong,” Threet said. “I love spending time with students, asking them questions, and getting to know their various circumstances and what’s happening in their lives. DEAN OF THE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, APPLIED SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY INTERIM WSU PRESIDENT Leslie Durham became interim WSU president following the recent departure of former WSU president Brad Mortensen. Durham, who previously served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Boise State University, initially joined Weber State as provost and senior vice president of Academic Affairs. Among her successes at Boise State, Durham launched four new academic programs and three new schools within her college. WSU’s student-focused mission brought her to Utah. “I see Weber State thriving despite the challenges due to its deep commitment to student success,” she said. “It’s a big deal moving to Utah from Boise State because I’ve been there for 24 years, so only a place as special as Weber State could convince me to pull up those deep roots.” 10 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 Brian Rague assumed the role of dean of the College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology in July 2025. Rague, who brings more than 21 years of experience guiding and promoting Weber State to the role, previously served as associate dean of EAST and chair of the Department of Computer Science. As dean, Rague oversees seven academic programs, nine college centers, 100 faculty members, 30 staff members, and about 3,200 student majors. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have interacted with quite a few folks across the university,” Rague said. “And everyone is invested in student success across the board, so I’m excited to leverage that existing camaraderie.” DEAN OF THE JOHN B. GODDARD SCHOOL OF BUSINESS & ECONOMICS Jeremy Oller, WSU’s new John B. Goddard School of Business & Economics dean, previously served as dean of the College of Business at the University of Central Oklahoma, where he led initiatives to strengthen academic quality, student engagement, and industry partnerships. Oller was drawn to WSU’s commitment to student success and high-quality staff and faculty. “The Goddard School is already doing a great job, so what I’m hoping to bring is excitement and the ability to keep the momentum going,” he said. “I see the Goddard School’s vision, and I know we can be known as a top regional school in the western United States.” HONORED FOR CULTIVATING CIVIC ENGAGEMENT Leah Murray, a Brady Presidential Distinguished Professor and director of Weber State’s Olene S. Walker Institute of Politics & Public Service, received the 2025 Barbara Burch Award from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities this past summer. The AASCU’s American Democracy Project, an initiative focused on higher education’s role in preparing the next generation of informed and engaged citizens, presents the award to faculty who’ve demonstrated exemplary contributions to students’ civic learning and engagement. “Many people in America talk about our country as though it’s a final product,” Murray said. “But as founding father Ben Franklin taught us, it’s a republic if we can keep it. Civic engagement is the way we keep this republic. I’m passionate about this work, always, because America is a work in progress.” Murray has led efforts to increase student voter engagement on campus, placed WSU students in valuable internships, and coordinated programming to encourage active citizenship. Outside WSU, she’s called on as a local expert for news segments or community events, speaking on topics ranging from elections to policy updates. WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 11 WEBER WATCH WEBER WATCH WSU GRAD WORKS AMONG GIANTS as zookeeper As lead keeper at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium’s International Conservation Center, Thomas Bakke BS ’12 spends every day caring for some of the world’s largest land animals. He oversees four elephants and manages all aspects of their care, from bathing and habitat cleanup to diet and health checks. He also looks after four bison, two camels, and one reindeer. Each animal has a distinct personality, which Bakke has gotten to know over the more than 12 years he’s been at the center. In addition to animal care, Bakke helps educate the public. He teaches visitors about conservation, wildlife management, and how they can contribute to protecting species. Bakke said leaving the animals he cares for each day can be challenging: “The elephants don’t fit in my car, but I’m always thinking about them.” WSU’S DAY OF GIVING SUPPORTS STUDENTS Weber State’s first official Day of Giving brought in a significant amount of support, which will help enhance student programs, fund scholarships, and support campus initiatives. The fundraising event, held primarily online on April 10 and 11, 2025, raised $90,611.51. Areas that received donations include Counseling & Psychological Services, the Stewart Library, the Light the W fund, and athletic programs, as well as numerous departmental scholarship funds spread across all academic colleges. The Telitha E. Lindquist College of Arts & Humanities received funding to support various initiatives, including the musical Cabaret, sending the WSU orchestra and choir to perform in Spain, and the student-run KWCR radio station. Corbin Talley BS ’02, the Weber State men’s track and field and cross country coach, said he was overwhelmed by the support he saw pouring in from former teammates and other former Weber State athletes. His area allocated donations toward gear and student-athlete travel, including attending top-level NCAA track meets at the Bryan Clay and Long Beach invitationals in California, as well as indoor track and field meets in Albuquerque and Seattle.“These generous donations allowed us to take more athletes than we are able to in a typical year, providing for incredible growth opportunities and experience for our young athletes,” Talley said. The emotional bonds he builds with the animals — formed by being there during both their good days and their bad days — makes it worthwhile. “You never know what shenanigans elephants, camels, bison, or any animal will get into,” Bakke said. “But once you’ve entered their world, it’s hard to imagine ever stepping out.” It’s a job where your whole heart goes into it. It’s the most rewarding job in the world.” THOMAS BAKKE Students in the KWCR broadcasting and podcasting studios, one of many areas supported by the Day of Giving PLAN YOUR WILL ONLINE FOR FREE THROUGH WSU Weber State has launched a new tool to make estate planning more affordable and accessible. The free Wills Planner tool is available for anyone to use through Weber State’s planned giving platform, helping users to create their will. Users have the option to name Weber State as a beneficiary, but there is no obligation to do so. If you give your attorney access, they’re able to log in and view your documentation. “We’re really focused on empowering people to take that first step to plan for their future and their families,” WSU Development Coordinator Angie Anderson said. “Weber wants to make that as easy as possible.” These [donations] focus on helping students with experiential learning, providing opportunities for students in the arts and humanities to hone their skills outside of the classroom and to share their passion widely through performances (in Ogden and around the world) and now on the radio waves.” Find the “Wills Planner” link at weber.giftlegacy. com. For questions, contact Anderson at angelaanderson7@ weber.edu or 801-626-6194. DEBORAH UMAN Telitha E. Lindquist College of Arts & Humanities Dean SAVE THE DATE April 9 & 10 2026 give.weber.edu/dayofgiving WSU alum Thomas Bakke working with elephants, a job he loves; photo courtesy of Thomas Bakke WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 13 WEBER WATCH WEBER WATCH DAMIAN LILLARD returns as Wildcats general manager Weber State graduate and NBA star Damian Lillard BS ’15 was named general manager of the men’s basketball program in August 2025, serving as a key advisor and mentor to the team. “The support of our community is vital to the program’s success, and I am committed to playing a greater role in that effort,” Lillard said. “This opportunity allows me to be even more involved in shaping the future of Weber State basketball.” Lillard played at Weber State from 2009–2012, leading the Wildcats to two Big Sky Championships. He was an All-American in 2012 and was a twotime Big Sky MVP. After being selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA Draft, Lillard was named 2013 NBA Rookie of the Year. He is a nine-time NBA All-Star, an eight-time AllNBA selection, and a member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team. His number 1 jersey was retired at WSU in 2017, and he is in the WSU Athletics Hall of Fame and the Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame. SPIRIT SQUAD win streak continues The Weber State Spirit Squad keeps adding trophies to its cabinet. In April 2025, WSU’s cheer and dance teams won a combined four national championships for the second straight year at the NCA/NDA National Championships in Florida. Last spring’s haul ended up being the eighth straight national title, and third straight Grand National title, for WSU’s large coed cheer team. The small coed cheer team repeated as national champions, its third national title in four years, and has now won back-to-back Grand National titles. The dance team repeated as Division I Hip Hop champions, its fifth hip hop national title and third in the last five years. Dance also won the Division I Jazz championship, and a Grand National in jazz. The Spirit Squad has been a high mark of consistency. Spirit Squad director Summer Willis 14 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 said the model of the program hasn’t changed in regard to working hard, staying disciplined, and things of that nature, but the technical aspect of cheerleading has changed tremendously. “The talent out there, the training, what they’re doing, it’s just like any sport. It just keeps evolving; it keeps getting better and better. That’s the really fun thing about cheer … it just keeps leveling up,” Willis said. Willis is optimistic about the 2025–26 Spirit Squad, as its competition schedule ramps up this spring. “We did lose some good leaders and athletes, but we have a really awesome incoming class that’s just eager, excited, [and] very, very talented,” said Willis at the beginning of the 2025–26 academic year. Damian Lillard hosted the Weber State Basketball Alumni Classic on Aug. 2, 2025. At the annual event, Lillard formally announced his role as general manager for Weber State’s men’s basketball team. Spirit Squad members celebrate their victories at the NCA/NDA National Championships. We’ve been so fortunate that we’ve all been able to succeed at the same time.” SUMMER WILLIS WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 15 Thanks to his adaptability, business acumen, and talent for building relationships, Steve Starks BIS ’03 is widely respected as a leader in Utah and beyond. Business icon Steve Starks steers the way for Amplify Weber State, WSU’s largest fundraising campaign in history. By Jen Wright 16 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 And his name recognition is sure to keep rising. The Weber State graduate and former student body president was president of the Utah Jazz and Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment before advancing to his current role as CEO of the Larry H. Miller Company. He leads Big League Utah, the effort to bring an MLB expansion team to Salt Lake City. In early 2025, Starks was named vice chair of the organizing committee for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games — serving alongside committee CEO and vice chair Brad Wilson BS ’93. Most importantly for the WSU community, Starks is chair of the steering committee for Amplify Weber State: The Campaign for Weber State University. The comprehensive fundraising campaign aims to raise $200 million over the next few years to support student access and success, workforce preparedness, teaching excellence, and other initiatives across the university (see story on page 20). “Weber State really invested in me as a student, and I have always felt this obligation to pay back the institution and to have a positive impact on the place I love that helped shape my life,” Starks said about his decision to chair the committee. “This was worth making time for.” Brad Mortensen, WSU president when the committee was formed, was thrilled to see Starks in this leadership role. “Steve never flinches when it comes to advocating for Weber State,” he said. “He’s been in so many situations where he’s had the chance to elevate the university’s profile and visibility at the state level or beyond, and he always stands up as a proud Wildcat.” Former president Ann Millner agreed. Now a fellow member of the steering committee, she has known Starks since he was a student and has worked with him many times over the decades since. “Time and time again, Steve has demonstrated his ability to build relationships with people — to come into situations, see what needs to be done, and then be able to align people toward a common goal and get the team working together to make it happen,” she said. “He’s a part of the next generation that will have an impact and imprint on Weber State in the future.” WINTER 2026 Steve Starks visited WSU for a campaign steering committee meeting in October 2025. weber.edu/wsumagazine 17 College Years Starks grew up in Huntsville, Utah, and graduated from Weber High School. He spent a year at Weber State before serving a mission in Mississippi. To return to school, he needed to pay his way with several jobs: driving a bread truck, hanging siding, working on a golf course — an experience similar to that of many WSU students today. As a sophomore, he was elected student body president as a write-in candidate, which included a scholarship. After that, he completed several paid internships. “Although I probably didn’t make as much money as I could have if I had worked ... I thought, if I deferred making more money until later, and I traded that for experience, it would eventually lead to a better job,” he said. When talking with students now, Starks refers to seasons of life — and college is the season to “focus on getting an education and getting experiences.” “As I look back at Weber State, the thing that’s very evident is that who I entered as and who I left as were dramatically different people,” he said. “I didn’t even know enough to know what I wanted to do when I came in as a freshman. And by the time I left, because of Weber State’s emphasis on being a teaching university, because you can get involved in extracurriculars, because of the culture on campus, I was able to have experiences that dramatically changed my trajectory.” Professional Career After graduating with a degree in integrated studies and completing an internship in Washington, D.C., on the Senate Judiciary Committee, Starks spent several years working in Utah politics. It was a somewhat ironic move, because his internship had convinced him he’d rather go into business than law school. But when he returned to Utah, he met and was impressed with then-candidate for governor Nolan Karras BS ’70. He volunteered for the Karras campaign and was asked to become campaign manager. “Taking that role was very situational, because I thought so highly of Nolan,” Starks said. After that, he managed a campaign for Rob Bishop, former U.S. representative. But it wasn’t what he wanted to do as a career. “Then John Huntsman called and asked if I would help manage his transition team, because 18 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 he had been elected governor. That role was far less political, more focused on policy, how to run organizations effectively, and how to set up a new administration. At the time I was 25, 26 years old,” Starks said. “I developed a lot of relationships and learned a lot about the way that not only state government works, but also how world-class organizations work, because we brought in consultants from some of the top firms of the country to help us. Watching how they approached problems and thought about how to run effective and efficient organizations was a great education.” At that point, Starks decided he should go to business school. He never got there. He got as far as asking Larry H. Miller for a letter of recommendation while they were in an elevator together. That request led to lunch, and “that ultimately led to him asking if I’d come to work for the Miller Company,” Starks said. In the business world, this story was shortened to a legend that Starks met Miller on an elevator and emerged with a job offer. The reality wasn’t that dramatic, but it was unusual. “He saw, I think, potential — maybe a very raw product, but somebody who had potential to become more refined and develop some executive abilities,” Starks said. Throughout his career, Starks saw Miller bring talented people into the company without a defined role, on the belief that the right position would emerge for them. “I fell into that category,” Starks said. “That was 19 years ago.” It’s a lesson Starks has carried with him as he’s risen to lead the organization. “Now that I’m the CEO, I can see that effective leaders are really effective recruiters of talent, and they develop talent,” he said. “I’m grateful Larry saw something in me, and I try to model that. Let’s hire really bright people and make sure that we give them a career path where they can both grow individually and make a really positive impact on the company.” “Steve never flinches when it comes to advocating for Weber State.” — BRAD MORTENSEN Looking Ahead Starks balances many roles and responsibilities: family, career, church, and a variety of civic and business leadership and advisory positions. “I believe balance is really a function of prioritization,” he said. “Different things have to be prioritized at different times. The older I’m getting, the more I’m learning to say no. A really important aspect of leadership is to know when to say no to certain things, to focus and simplify. I’m very much in that season of life right now. I am trying to focus on the essential things.” For the next several years, those essentials include Olympic planning and WSU’s Amplify campaign. Starks is excited for both. “With the Olympics, we have an opportunity to take a very prepared state in terms of readiness to host, and ensure that the games in 2034 leave a legacy and have a great impact for the citizens of Utah,” he said. “We can leave the world a little bit better for having been in Utah, and we can leave the citizens of Utah a little bit better for having welcomed the world.” As for Amplify, Starks can already envision the impact of a successful campaign. “This campaign is special in that it’s focused on students and access and education — not buildings. When we hit our goal of $200 million dollars, the return will be many multiples of that in the effect it has on students’ lives and in furthering the mission of Weber State University.” His goal as a campaign leader is “to tell the Weber State story effectively, so people can understand what makes this university so special and why it’s essential to northern Utah — to the students and communities that it serves, and what it does for our workforce in the region.” Starks hopes recent graduates get involved, even with small donations. “It’s a way of giving back,” he said. “It will be an example to their own kids and something they’ll never regret doing.” A true believer in the value of education, Starks can picture himself teaching at WSU someday. “The value of education is timeless, no matter the circumstances we find ourselves in. I believe that education at an institution like Weber State is about what we learn in the classroom; it’s about the character we develop by going through the process; and it’s about the relationships that we make. Those will help us not only find better careers, they ultimately will help us have more meaningful lives.” Weber State really invested in me as a student, and I have always felt this obligation to pay back the institution and to have a positive impact on the place I love that helped shape my life. This was worth making time for. — STEVE STARKS Steve Starks speaks at WSU’s commencement ceremony in April 2023. WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 19 BEHIND the SCENES As Weber State launches its largest fundraising campaign in history, Wildcat brings you details about Amplify Weber State: The Campaign for Weber State University, and what it is intended to accomplish. What is Amplify Weber State? What is the money used for? Amplify Weber State is a comprehensive, multi-year fundraising campaign for the university. While WSU’s annual operating expenses — personnel, facilities, academic programs, student services, and administration — are primarily covered by state funding and tuition, private donations directly transform our university and allow us to provide a better student experience. Amplify is focused on engaging the Weber State community and encouraging philanthropy to improve student success. A wide range of scholarships, programs, equipment upgrades, facility improvements, and much more. In recent years, private gifts have helped fund initiatives like: Why “Amplify”? We’re proud of Weber State and everything we do for our students, our community, and our region. The point of this campaign is to take what we already do well and build on that — boost our efforts, increase our impact, and amplify our success. • The Miller Advanced Research & Solutions (MARS) Center near Hill Air Force Base, where students and faculty research and apply innovative solutions to real-world problems in the realm of national defense. • The Ogden Foster Scholarship Program, supporting students who have aged out of foster care and want to attend Weber State. • The Wildcat MicroFund, which offers cash grants, invaluable advice, and networking opportunities to WSU students and local entrepreneurs. To help position WSU for success in the coming decade, we’ve identified high-priority programs that will make a tremendous impact on student opportunities and experiences. These include: • • • • 20 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 Expanding student scholarships. Meeting workforce needs and providing immersive learning experiences. Growing learning communities to increase student retention. Championing teaching excellence with faculty support. The campaign goal is $200 million, but we’re already over $125 million. How? Over the past several years, WSU’s development team has been working with donors who champion the university’s vision. We start each campaign with a “quiet phase,” when we share our vision — “Imagine Weber State if we had …” — to secure leadership support and leading gifts. By the time we announce the campaign, the progress we’ve already made shows our momentum, making it more exciting for people to get involved. And every donation helps us achieve our ultimate goal to Amplify Weber State! How can you learn more or get involved? Scan the QR on this spread to visit weber.edu/ amplify-weber-state, where you can learn about WSU’s goals, see our fundraising progress, or make a gift. WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 21 Weber State transformed the Allred Theater into a late-night television show studio for Amplify Live, a special event on Jan. 9, 2026, to launch the public phase of fundraising effort Amplify Weber State: The Campaign for Weber State University. Hosted by alum Morgan Saxton BS ’13, host of FOX 13’s The PLACE, the kickoff event featured high-energy musical performances, student interviews, a faculty award presentation, and the unveiling of WSU’s goal to raise $200 million. Interim President Leslie Durham, Campaign Steering Committee Chair Steve Starks BIS ’03, and Vice President of University Advancement Betsy Mennell announced that the campaign had already raised $125,574,910 during its quiet phase, which began in 2020. Before the show, honored guests gathered in the Val A. Browning Center lobby, dressed to “amplify their purple pride,” to meet students from a variety of academic programs sharing research and projects made possible through philanthropy. The event concluded with a vibrant performance of the WSU fight song, with the audience enthusiastically joining in to welcome a bold new chapter for the university. 22 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 What I love most about this campaign is that it’s about students and access and education. I know without a doubt that what the community puts into Amplify Weber State will be returned exponentially in benefits for our students, our region, our state, and beyond. — STEVE STARKS ABOVE: Vice President of University Advancement Betsy Mennell, Interim President Leslie Durham, and Campaign Steering Committee Chair Steve Starks unveil the amount raised toward the campaign goal of $200 million. BELOW: Amplify Live host Morgan Saxton interviews students Mary Abbott, Khadija Abdinasir, and Jared Esplin about their journeys at Weber State and how scholarships have supported their success. WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 23 g n n i a k a t M c a p h Im t i w MEET THREE WILDCATS who finished their degrees with CATapult scholarships BY JAIME WINSTON 24 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 THE LAST FEW STEPS ARE OFTEN THE MOST DIFFICULT. An estimated 400 to 500 students, who are at least 75% of the way through their degree program, drop out of Weber State University every semester. While the university works to keep education affordable, financial issues are often the cause. During his 2020 inauguration, former WSU President Brad Mortensen launched the CATapult Scholarship to help combat the issue. The scholarship program provides an upward burst of momentum for students nearing graduation but without the means to continue. As of fall 2025, the scholarship has helped more than 2,314 students stay on track to graduate. Among them, the following Wildcats reached their goals. WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 25 School is not easy, but I would say push through it because your reward will be very big.” — GABY GAKWAYA The INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSWOMAN The DEDICATED NURSE Gaby Gakwaya BS ’25 perfectly fit WSU’s international business economics major. Her life experiences have brought her across the globe. She was born and raised in Belgium until her family moved to Rwanda. She then came to the United States to attend high school at Layton Christian Academy. As a WSU student, she returned to Belgium for an internship and also studied abroad in Germany. And running a business has always been in her family in Belgium and Rwanda. “Just the words ‘international business,’ that’s Madison Doyle BS ’25 is a lifeline to patients at Huntsman Cancer Institute. As a nurse, she provides assessments, medications, and treatments for about three to four patients at a time, admitted with cancer, sickle cell anemia, chemotherapy complications, or one of many other illnesses. While growing up, Doyle said she saw her grandmother go in and out of remission with breast cancer. Eventually, her grandmother entered hospice care and later passed away. Doyle saw how caring nurses made a difference in her life. When looking for a job in healthcare, she was motivated to work with cancer patients. “I just felt that I could make a difference,” Doyle said. Born in Chicago, Doyle spent most of her childhood in the Charlotte metropolitan area, followed by moves to Florida and Colorado. “We just kind of had a rough go growing up, so my parents had to move around for jobs,” she said. Doyle arrived in Utah in 2021 with her husband, Jackson, who was stationed at Hill Air Force Base. The mountains’ proximity to the city and how friendly the locals were surprised her. Deciding to make Ogden her home, Doyle worked as an ophthalmic technician when she decided to go further into healthcare. “People talk up Weber State’s nursing program really highly around here,” Doyle said. “So, I immediately started looking into it.” She completed the licensed practical nursing program at Davis Technical College before finishing the registered nurse program and bachelor’s degree in nursing at WSU. Doyle began work at Huntsman in Salt Lake City while attending school full time, making time management challenging. “Sometimes, I would leave a night shift and go straight to class because I didn’t really have any other option,” she said. The situation became more complicated when Jackson medically retired from the military in 2022. “Our lifestyle changed a lot while I was in the middle of nursing school,” Doyle said. “He was very supportive that I continue and not give up.” Jackson soon began his own degree program at another university. “So, it’s just two adult students going back to school,” Doyle said. “It was kind of a really rough time for both of us, but we really supported each other through it.” what drew me into it,” Gakwaya said. “I’m an international student, so I just thought that would be a plus.” However, once she began her classes, she realized it was more difficult than expected, especially when dealing with math or statistics. She said professors like Valentinas Rudys and Nazneen Ahmad took the time to review homework with her and explain concepts. She was also inspired by the depth of Professor of Economics John Mbaku’s international research. Paying for her final semester was also a challenge, as she didn’t want the burden to be on her parents. Thankfully, Gakwaya received an email one day saying some changes had been made to her student bill. Working in the registrar’s office at the time, she walked across the hall to the billing office to learn she received a CATapult Scholarship. “They removed all the financial burden that I had,” she said. “I was so happy.” Before CATapult, she had also received financial help from the John B. Goddard School of Business & Economics and the Study Abroad office, and she covered the rest with help from her parents and the money she earned working at the university. Gakwaya received a minor and a certificate in French along with her bachelor’s degree. She uses her experience as an international student to assist others in navigating the university as a registrar’s success coach, helping students access transcripts, change names or addresses, or even navigate CatTracks. “The registration office is like the heart of all the other offices because students will come to us, and then we will refer them to the right department,” Gakwaya said. “If we can help them, we always do our best.” She now looks forward to earning her Master of Business Administration and, hopefully, finding a career that allows her to travel to more parts of the world. Her advice to students struggling in class: “Push through it. It can be very hard. School is not easy, but I would say push through it because your reward will be very big.” 26 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 Then Doyle received word that she would no longer receive the Pell Grant she relied on for her education. “I was absolutely freaking out,” she recalled. Bridget Jensen, WSU scholarship director, helped Doyle reapply for the Pell Grant and also convinced her to complete a scholarship application. She received a CATapult Scholarship to help her finish her degree the same day she applied. “I remember coming home to my husband, being like ‘I don’t know if this is real. I feel like this is a mistake.’” Doyle laughed. “I was just so taken aback by the generosity from Bridget and the CATapult Scholarship donors as well.” Doyle now hopes to pass the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation’s exam to become an Oncology Certified Nurse. This will tell patients she understands the development of cancer and what they may expect before, during, and after treatment. WINTER 2026 I just felt that I could make a difference.” — MADISON DOYLE weber.edu/wsumagazine 27 The SALES PROFESSIONAL I enjoy sales, because it’s psychology. You grow as a person because you learn so much about yourself, you learn about relationships, you learn about personality types.” — LISA SALVITTI Lisa Salvitti AS ’25, BS ’25 completed her Weber State degrees after a number of tragedies proved to her that she is a survivor. She first came to Weber State after high school, changing majors several times before marrying and leaving school to save money. After having children, she planned to return, but decided it wasn’t the best time while going through a divorce. Returning later, she left again after losing her boyfriend in a devastating car crash. Financial issues later prevented her from making a return. “I became homeless and was living in my car with my son,” Salvitti said. She planned to return once more, but the car she lived in soon broke down. Salvitti decided to go to truck driving school to earn her commercial driver’s license and become a truck driver so that she could provide a better life for her family. KYRIE’S KITCHEN s With her sales knowledge, Salvitti hope a ding inclu , esses busin al sever h to launc drive-thru for fresh-baked treats. 28 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 “I didn’t know how hard it was to back up a semi or anything,” she said. “I just thought, ‘Oh, that pays good. We can have a place to sleep.’” She said it was a difficult journey entering the male-dominated field, and she faced bullying as she learned. “I have had to fight tigers to get my experience in trucking,” she said. While driving allowed her to see beautiful settings across the country, she said she unfortunately had to stop for brief periods due to injuries and other traumas. Soon after, her mother’s health declined and she was put on hospice care. Salvitti planned on splitting her time between school and caring for her mother, but decided not to return when an injury to her back put her in extreme pain. After losing her mother, Salvitti finally returned to Weber State, where she only needed a year of classes to complete her professional sales degree. “I enjoy sales, because it’s psychology,” she said. “You grow as a person because you learn so much about yourself, you learn about relationships, you learn about personality types.” The CATapult Scholarship was the break she needed. “I applied, and that’s when they said, ‘Hey, we’ll give you a scholarship,’” Salvitti recalled. “I’m so grateful for that.” It covered the whole year. “I was floored; I just couldn’t believe it,” she said. Salvitti now looks forward to her future. She plans to use her professional sales knowledge to support her businesses and set an example for her two children and four grandchildren. Salvitti’s TikTok nickname, Woman of Valor, and transportation business, Valor Trucking LLC, are a tribute to her grandson, whose middle name is Valor. She hopes to soon get a custom T-shirt company off the ground, along with a brand of spaghetti sauce, Salvitti’s Spaghetti Sauce, inspired by her grandmother, Carmella. Like her grandmother, Salvitti once ran a bakery and hopes to return to the food business with a drive-thru restaurant she wants to call Kyrie’s Kitchen, named after her granddaughter. Through her experiences, she learned that while you don’t always get over hard times, you can get through them. They deepened her religious faith and turned her focus to helping others. She now advocates for truck drivers and against violence. Salvitti said she’s thankful to her son Andrew, who helped her through difficult times, and WSU professors, especially Paige Young, for their encouragement. She’s also thankful to family who have passed away — her parents, who taught her that hard work pays off, and her brother, Tony, who saved her life when she was young. She plans to publish a book about her experiences to inspire others facing hardships. CATAPULT IMPACT TOTAL AWARDED $4,322,430* TOTAL AWARDS AVERAGE AWARD 2,314 $ 1,095 CATAPULT SCHOLARSHIP SUCCESS 99% 64% of recipients have either graduated or are still enrolled. of recipients have graduated with a degree. 50% 43% have completed a bachelor’s degree. of the recipients are 25 or older. *as of January 2026 GIVE A MEANINGFUL BOOST AT A CRITICAL MOMENT By supporting CATapult Scholarships, you’re telling a Weber State student, “You’re almost there. I believe you can do it!” WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 29 Weber State University has expanded collaborations with Hill Air Force Base and Utah’s defense industry, offering more opportunity and support for those who serve. al i d l Ba By Rach e When MaryBeth Capell BS ’13 finishes her workday maintaining instruments used in planes like the C-130 and F-16 at Hill Air Force Base, her school day starts. Capell is pursuing a Master of Business Administration from Weber State. Last spring, she was among the first students to take a WSU graduate class offered on-site at Hill Air Force Base. “Having class so close to work helps me keep my forward momentum,” Capell said. “It helps me stay in work-mode instead of getting off work, going home, and then dragging myself back out.” In 2024, the university and base partnered to bring education opportunities to military personnel, their families, and civilian employees. Capell is an electronic integrated systems mechanic. She works on flight instruments like the liquid oxygen fuel indicator, gas temperature indicator, and pressure transmitter. She has been a civilian employee of the 309th Electronics Maintenance Group since early 2022. “I like the end product of my job; I’m getting planes back up in the air,” Capell said. “And I like the camaraderie. Somebody who has a more highrisk job than I do is dependent on me to do my job correctly to protect us as a nation.” She’s also worked for Northrop Grumman and was previously a contract employee on Hill Air Force Base. Though she finds her work fulfilling, she’s ready for the next step. Getting an MBA will unlock new job opportunities in areas like finance or analytics, which Capell is interested in. MaryBeth Capell, a WSU graduate student and employee at Hill Air Force Base; photo courtesy of MaryBeth Capell 30 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 31 Building Opportunities Weber State’s MBA program is designed for working professionals, offering evening classes so employees can develop skills applicable across fields and excel in their careers. François Carrier, program director, said this makes it a great fit for anyone wanting to advance, including Hill Air Force Base employees like Capell. “We admit people who are going to be great leaders,” Carrier said. “Anyone who has a leadership mindset, a good heart, integrity, and wants to better themselves so they can lead and serve.” Carrier said the base is an important community partner, and he’s always looking for ways to connect with and meet the needs of the state’s most vital employers. In 2015, the MBA program introduced two new certificates: aerospace program management and contract management. These certificates are open to all students but created specifically with base employees in mind. Previously, if a team member wanted to pursue a management track, they’d likely enroll in an aerospace MBA program outside of Utah. WSU created a comparable pathway with more convenience, affordability, and in-person support. “We want to establish relationships where we understand employers,” Carrier said, “so they can tap into the quality education of a Weber State degree and develop professionals.” Hundreds of MBA program alumni work in the aerospace or defense industry. Right now, Capell is one of close to 30 students sponsored by Hill Air Force Base earning their MBA. For her, advancing her education means becoming a better leader. It also means career growth, potentially a higher salary, and the chance to pivot to what she calls “bigger picture” roles that impact an entire squadron. To reach her goals, she’s taken MBA classes at the Education & Training Office building on the base and online. Other classes are held at WSU Davis, which is just minutes from the base. WSU plans to offer more on-site degrees at the base, focusing on high-demand fields for both enlisted and civilian employees, including a Master of Health Administration, Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, Master of Science in Systems Engineering, and a Master of Education. These graduate courses are open to anyone with access to the base, which includes active duty military personnel, dependents, retirees, and approximately 20,000 civilian employees. While the MBA program is synchronous — so students log in at a set time for real-time engagement — some other programs, like the Master of Health Administration and Master of Science in Nursing, offer delivery methods with no required meeting times. That means even active duty personnel could earn a master’s degree while working or being deployed. 32 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 A Wingman for Every Step Capell, along with anyone else on the base, has easy access to on-site support and graduate studies advising. Chris Hatch, WSU’s Military-Affiliated Student Center peer mentoring program manager, spends the majority of his time on the base, connecting students with information and services. He brings years of professional experience and personal perspective to his role. Hatch spent more than a decade working in public affairs while serving active duty in the U.S. Air Force. Now, he’s in the Reserve. His mission is to help students earn their degrees, whether that means working with his team to ensure benefits are dispersed correctly, providing moral support, or sharing ideas on how to successfully juggle work and class. In 2024, about 950 students at WSU used GI Bill benefits, which helps qualifying military members, veterans, and family members pay for school. Hundreds more not included in that number are serving or have military affiliations. Each of those Wildcats can visit Hatch or others at the Military-Affiliated Student Center for help. “The biggest challenge for students serving is the unpredictable nature of the military itself,” Hatch said. “If you know you could be deployed in three days, that is very hard and weighing on students.” He emphasizes the importance of flexibility — something he said WSU professors are excellent at offering. Hatch recalled working with a student who was deployed in the middle of the semester but didn’t have to drop his class because the professor offered accommodations to keep him going. He notes that helping students achieve their academic goals is about more than fulfilling potential; it’s also about economic growth and national security. According to the University of Utah Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, Utah’s military and defense industry directly and indirectly supports more than 173,000 jobs. James Taylor, WSU’s Office of Sponsored Projects executive director, said that creates an “insatiable need” for skilled employees. “We have to be supplying enough students graduating with relevant degrees to make sure they have people to actually do the work,” Taylor said. “It becomes mission critical.” WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 33 Serving All Who Serve All who contribute to defending the country — whether military personnel, family members, civilian employees, contractors, or others — play an essential role. That’s why Taylor highlights the importance of meeting the educational needs of all those populations. The Rosie Project is another way WSU supports military families and bolsters the workforce. This free information technology course helps military spouses learn and get plugged into well-paying tech jobs. The university also offers prior learning credit for military training and has pathways to help veterans transition to civilian careers. Whatever the route, Taylor said the goal is to provide more opportunities to take off toward a successful future. Capell is studying finance, accounting, supply chain, and economics — all meant to help her become fluent in the language of business and learn what goes into great management. As she approaches graduation, she’s more frequently connecting classroom knowledge to work. In her organizational behavior class, she was reminded of a leader’s ability to impact culture and company outcomes. “Your mentality can make or break a whole system,” she said. “On Hill Air Force Base, it goes back to what we call ‘AOP.’ It’s the art of the possible. It’s never just, ‘What can I do for myself?’” That principle has stuck with her as a Wildcat and a government employee. “Instead of being self-serving, it’s understanding how to work for everyone as a whole,” she said. “That’s what makes everybody’s experience better. That’s a leader.” DISCOVER YOUR GRADUATE PROGRAM Doctor of Nursing Practice weber.edu/dnp Doctor of Nursing Practice Executive Leadership Emphasis POST-MASTER'S Aug. 24, 2026 Fall semester 2026 start date APPLICATIONS CLOSE AUG. 1, 2026 Family Nurse Practitioner Emphasis POST-BSN Be Curious. Be Inventive. Be Brilliant. Aug. 24, 2026 Fall semester 2026 start date APPLICATIONS CLOSE APRIL 2, 2026 May 10, 2027 Summer semester 2027 start date APPLICATIONS OPEN SEPT. 3, 2026 Psychiatric | Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Emphasis POST-BSN Jan. 11, 2027 Spring semester 2027 start date APPLICATIONS OPEN MID-APRIL 2026 APPLICATIONS CLOSE SEPT. 15 2026 Master of Science in Nursing weber.edu/msn Find your brilliance: weber.edu/science Educator or Leadership & Management POST-MASTER'S CERTIFICATE OPTIONS AVAILABLE May 4, 2026 Summer semester 2026 start date APPLICATIONS CLOSE MARCH 17, 2026 Master of Science in Nursing FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Christopher Cordon (seated), Matt Dixon, Taylee Green, Linda Carver ALUMNI AMPLIFIED! MEET THE 2025–26 WSUAA LEADERS As WSU launched its fundraising campaign, Amplify Weber State: The Campaign for Weber State University, Wildcat asked our alumni leadership team about something often amplified: music. 36 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 Matt Dixon BA ’98, PRESIDENT Do you have any musical talents? I don’t consider myself a musician; however, I did grow up playing the fiddle. My family had a bluegrass band. My dad played guitar, my mom was on the bass, my oldest sister Kristen played the banjo, my sister Amy played the mandolin, and my brother Tyler and I played fiddle. We were the Dixon Family Band. I have many great memories of the countless hours practicing in our small living room, laughing, and playing music together. I think it is one of the reasons my family has remained close. We learned to work (play) together and enjoy being together as we practiced, traveled, and performed. Who is your favorite band or musical artist? Growing up, my favorite band was The Bellamy Brothers. I heard them perform at the Weber County Fair when I was young and really enjoyed their music. That year for Christmas, all I wanted was Bellamy Brothers music. I remember getting several of their albums on cassette WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 37 tapes. I wore those cassettes out jamming to songs like “Redneck Girl,” “Let Your Love Flow,” and “Old Hippie.” What song reminds you of your time in college? My musical interests are very diverse. During my time at WSU, I listened to a lot of Alanis Morissette, Van Halen, Guns N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, and the forever popular Neil Diamond, John Denver, George Strait, and Garth Brooks. What talents or skills did your time at Weber State help bring out or amplify? Being a psychology major, I think WSU really helped me learn how to be a better listener, to think critically, and solve problems. I’ve used these skills to find success in not only my professional life but also my personal life. The richest part of my career has been the interactions and relationships I’ve formed using the skills that WSU helped amplify. If you could yell to the world one thing about Weber State, what would it be? Hands down the best value for your investment! Linda Carver I have been around music all of my life. I hold musicians in the highest regard and absolutely stand in awe of their talents and their courage to put it all out there. I dabble in piano, but I’m not too stellar. But I do have claims to be very musical, because my husband has played in a band since he was in junior high school — so I have been a roadie for all of my married life. For years, I planted myself behind the stage. And I will say our first dwelling had very sparse furniture, but the floors were lined with big amplifiers. Who is your favorite band or musical artist? Eden’s Yellow Rose What song reminds you of your time in college? “Proud Mary” What talents or skills did your time at Weber State help bring out or amplify? BS ’21, MBA ’23, NEW ALUMNI PRESIDENT Do you have any musical talents? In junior high, I was first chair on the baritone. I also played the trumpet and guitar. Recently, I have picked up the guitar in an attempt to play again. Who is your favorite band or musical artist? That is a difficult question, as I feel not all music is comparative. Different genres bring different attributes to the table. I have been listening to country music lately, including Chris Stapleton. He has an emotional aspect to his music that connects with the listener. I thought it was a good idea to use “Maggie’s Song” as an alarm. Every week when my alarm sounded to take the trash to the street, I found myself in tears. It was time to change my alarm. What song reminds you of your time in college? BS ’72, EMERITI PRESIDENT Do you have any musical talents? Christopher Cordon reaching out to new ideas and going through that early stage of figuring out adulthood. My experiences at WSU gave me confidence in speaking to groups, being comfortable in crowds, gaining a work ethic, and instilling in me a personal confidence that I could do uncharted adventures. It was rewarding to have professors value my input and steer me toward educational pursuits. Those years were the most pivotal years of my life. I tell my grandchildren now that while they are going through the university stage, they don’t realize the long-term impact it will play forever in their decisions. If you could yell to the world one thing about Weber State, what would it be? It’s stupendous! The Weber State fight song is great, Great, GREAT! What talents or skills did your time at Weber State help bring out or amplify? Weber State has instilled in me strength, resilience, and proficiency: strength to push past ever-present obstacles, even when they feel daunting, resilience to push harder after I fail, and proficiency to complete complex tasks. Weber State has amplified my ability to perform when given an opportunity. If you could yell to the world one thing about Weber State, what would it be? How great of a community surrounds Weber. Weber State is a great value to enhance competencies for nontraditional learners with a time deficit. Taylee Green PLANNING TO GRADUATE SPRING 2026, STUDENT ALUMNI PRESIDENT Do you have any musical talents? I cannot play any instrument fully, but I am trying to learn the acoustic guitar and would love to learn piano some day. Who is your favorite band or musical artist? My favorite artist would have to be Faye Webster or Al Green. What song reminds you of your time in college? I would say “Thin Line Between Love and Hate” by The Persuaders reminds me of my college experience. While there were many aspects I loved, some were a bit more tricky. What talents or skills did your time at Weber State help bring out or amplify? Weber taught me community and leadership. I learned to amplify not only my own voice, but the voices of those around me. If you could yell to the world one thing about Weber State, what would it be? Weber is great, Great, GREAT! Weber State was the foundation for stepping into an entirely new arena: 38 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 39 Ingredients 3/4 oz lemon juice (half of a medium-sized lemon) 1 tbsp orange juice (one medium-sized orange) 2 tbsp simple syrup (see recipe below) 1/2 C sparkling water 1/2 C sparkling apple cider (or 1.5 oz gin) Cooking Class Kelsey Call, event manager for Weber State University’s Advancement division, said she’s “obsessed” with her garden. At work, she plans major university events, such as the recent grand opening of the rebuilt McKay Education Building. At home, whether picking weeds, nurturing her lemon tree, or checking on her honey bees clustering for warmth in the winter, she has a goal to touch dirt every day. Everyone says,‘Go touch grass.’ No, touch the dirt.” Call also enjoys entertaining guests and experimenting in the kitchen. Unsurprisingly, she went to the garden for inspiration when asked for a mocktail recipe she would make for a winter party. She uses a simple syrup she creates, alongside lemon juice, orange juice, sparkling water, and sparkling apple cider, for the recipe. She garnishes it with smoked rosemary, which grows in her garden year-round. Subbing gin for cider makes it a cocktail. The bold flavors and the rosemary’s warmth make it a nourishing drink for the cold weather. 40 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 “You get that rosemary essence in your nose, too,” she said. Her husband and unofficial taste tester, Stuart, has given the drink his thumbs up. Now, she’s excited to serve it for friends and family during the colder part of the new year. 2-inch sprig of rosemary (optional, recommended) Kelsey Call, event manager for Weber State University Winter Garden Mocktail Simple Syrup Recipe Mocktail Recipe Three to five servings Makes 1 drink Ingredients 1. Fill a highball or festive stemmed glass 3/4 full with ice. 4 to 5 four-inch sprigs of rosemary 1/2 C honey 1/2 C water 1. Combine water and honey in a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the honey is dissolved and thoroughly combined with the water (don’t boil vigorously). 2. Add fresh rosemary sprigs to syrup. 3. Remove from heat and let mixture steep for 45 minutes (or longer for bolder flavor). Taste periodically to prevent it from becoming too strong. 4. Strain the syrup through a mesh strainer into a clean jar or bottle to remove sprigs. 2. In a separate glass cup, add orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir gently to combine ingredients. 3. Strain the mix into your ice-filled glass and top with sparkling apple cider and sparkling water. Stir gently. 4. Set rosemary sprig on a heat-resistant surface in a well-ventilated area. Using a kitchen torch or lighter, lightly smoke the top of the sprig just enough to release aromatics. Exercise caution to not catch the sprig on fire. Hints For a sweeter drink, add more syrup. For a tarter drink, add more lemon juice. Make it a cocktail by mixing the ingredients in step two with 1.5 oz. of gin in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until well chilled, and then strain the mix into an ice-filled glass. 5. Place rosemary sprig into your glass and enjoy. 5. Discard solids, and let syrup cool in the refrigerator before use in the recipe. 41 EXECUTIVE MASTER of HEALTH ADMINISTRATION ALUMNI UPDATES “This is the best education I have had. I am so proud to be an alumnus of the MHA program.” — Juan Carlos Claudio, ’24 MHA grad Class Notes ’50s ROBERT “BOB” SHARP AS ’52 graduated 100% Online Designed for Working Professionals NO GRE/GMAT REQUIRED Becoming a healthcare leader shouldn’t require you to put the rest of your life on hold. Complete in just four semesters, 16 months total Our flexible, high-quality, low-cost online eMHA program allows you to earn your degree while continuing to work. Skip the entrance exam ACCELERATED PROGRAM FLAT-RATE TUITION No out-of-state increase VIRTUAL ORIENTATION Attend one virtual orientation weber.edu/mha EXECUTIVE IN RESIDENCE Here to provide mentorship APPLY NOW! NATIONALLY RANKED ALUMNI DISCOUNT Weber State alumni who are accepted into the eMHA cohort will be eligible for an additional one-time 5% loyalty discount on the first semester’s tuition. *Recognized among EduMed’s Best Online MHA Programs for 2021 No. 1 Online MHA Program, 2021* from Ogden High School in 1950. After graduating from Weber Junior College, he attended Stanford University, where he was part of the Navy Active-Duty Reserve Program, and graduated with a combined degree in industrial engineering and economics. During the late 1950s and early ’60s, Bob worked for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. He was then made manager of the Washington Terminal Company in Washington, D.C. In 1967, Bob was promoted to assistant vice president in charge of marketing planning with the Chicago & Northwestern Transportation Company. In 1976, he joined the Detroit, Toledo & Ironton Railroad Company as president, CEO, and director. In 1980, Bob relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area and joined the Southern Pacific Transportation System. During this time, Bob attended the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program, worked with Chicago & Illinois Midland Railroad, and went into private consulting. His wife, Cynthia Baker, passed away during their 36th year of marriage. He later married Katherine “Katie” James Allen. They retired to their home in Foster City, Calif. Shortly before their 30th anniversary, Bob and Katie moved into The Stratford retirement community in San Mateo. They have five sons and seven grandchildren among them. ’60s SHARON HOLMSTROM BS ’67 was the first in her family to graduate from college and went on to a career in education as a junior high English teacher. She was named the Utah State Teacher of the Year in 1998. Throughout her career, she was active in her community, co-founding such entities as the Ogden Nature Center, writing grants for school and community amenities, and serving on planning commissions and various boards, including the Community Foundation of Ogden Valley. Sharon’s husband of 60 years, David, owned and operated Ogden business The Packager Inc. Together, they are strong supporters of educators. They have three adult children, all college graduates with advanced degrees. They also have six grandchildren who have either graduated from college or plan to attend. ’70s EDWARD “TED” MADSEN BS ’72 is a pediatrician in Price, Utah, where he has practiced for nearly five decades. He earned his MD from the University of Utah in 1974 and completed his residency at the University of Vermont Medical Center in 1977. He received the highest honor of the Utah Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Marty Palmer Service to Children Award. His wife, SHARON (BLAIR) MADSEN BA ’68, has been his lifelong support. They have six children and 13 grandchildren. DAN WALKER BS ’75 is an Ogden boy and proud alum of Horace Mann Elementary, Highland Junior High, and Ben Lomond High School. In 1974, he began working in the laboratory at St. Benedict’s Hospital, the same hospital where he was born. In 1984, he began working part-time at Weber State as the field events coach for men’s and women’s track and field. In 1986, he retired from his role as the WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 43 ALUMNI UPDATES program they founded that encouraged kids to run 26.2 miles over the course of a school year. The program grew from 14 participants in its first year to over 10,000 in its 30th year. The Knights of Columbus took over the Texas Marathon in 2023, with proceeds now going to children’s charities. LISA FOLKER AA ’89, BS ’92 is a corporate BENJAMIN ZACK Sunrise over the Ogden campus on Sept. 3, 2025. hospital chemistry lab manager and became a full-time coach. He later became head coach for the men’s program. In 2013, he became the director of the track and field program. Accounting for three national champions in the high jump, 14 All-Americans in various field events, 74 Big Sky Conference champions, and 45 team championships, Dan retired in 2017. He then became an assistant at Idaho State University, where he mentored young coaches for three years before returning to Ogden. He is a current member of the jury of appeals for the Utah High School State Cross Country Championships and the State Track and Field Championships. He teaches at the ISU summer high school track camp and presents coaching clinics for high school and junior high schools in Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Washington. He serves on the WSU Emeriti Alumni Council. Dan married Elaine Ottley in 1974. They have three children and two grandchildren. 44 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 PAUL WINE BS ’77 has spent most of his FOLKER AS ’89, BS ’92, graduated together life as a dedicated vagabond, seeking to trim away as much unnecessary ego as possible. He lives in Tucson, Arizona, with his wife, Sharon, and an ever-growing sense of peace and well-being. on the same day. ’80s LYDIA COWLISHAW BS ’82, MS ’89 taught first grade at T.O. Smith Elementary, now known as Liberty Elementary, for 10 years. She went on to serve as the principal at Lynn Elementary for five years before returning to T.O. Smith as principal. She earned an administrative supervisory license through Utah State University. She and her late husband, Paul, served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Russia. They have five children, 16 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. Lydia and her daughters, PAULA BOONE BS ’89 and LISA KAREN HEDDEN AA ’85, BA ’87 graduated with a degree in elementary education and began teaching at West Wendover Elementary in 1989. She taught third and fifth grade and eventually became the librarian. She retired in 2014 and continues to reside in the West Wendover area. She has a son living in Washington, five grandchildren, and two great-grandsons. PAULA BOONE BS ’89 is the membership director and co-founder of the 50 States Marathon Club. She has traveled to all 50 states four times for marathons and completed 380 marathons total. Her husband, Steve Boone, has run 832 marathons and has completed the states seven times. They directed the Texas Marathon from 2000 to 2022. The proceeds from the Texas Marathon supported the Marathon Challenge, a sales representative with Minky Couture. Before this, she was an educator for 27 years, with two years in Ogden, two years in Colorado, and the remainder of her teaching career at T.H. Bell Junior High in Washington Terrace, Utah. She taught English and creative writing. Lisa earned a Master of Arts in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix and a Graduate Library Media Endorsement from Southern Utah University. She served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in South Korea after attending Weber State. She has written and illustrated six children’s books. Lisa travels annually with four former colleagues turned dear friends. She is a proud mom of two adult children and gets to claim a granddaughter by way of her boyfriend. ’90s AMELIA JENKINS MORALES BS ’92 is the senior director of federal affairs for Holland & Hart LLP, based in Washington, D.C. Amelia is an experienced strategist specializing in energy and environmental policy. She has worked in Congress, the Executive Branch, and private industry. For 10 years, she led the energy and environment practice at Cassidy & Associates, a bipartisan government relations firm, as executive vice president, advising on projects such as natural gas pipelines and wind energy. Her congressional experience includes serving the House Committee on Natural Resources as the deputy staff director and senior policy advisor, as a senior advisor/staff director of the Subcommittee on Water and Power, and as a senior legislative staff member for subcommittees focused on forests and forest health as well as oceans and wildlife. She earned an MS in environmental science in 1999 from the University of Idaho. JENNY SCOTHERN BS ’96 is a Realtor at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, specializing in northern Utah. She has been in the Utah real estate field for six years, receiving recognitions such as International President’s Circle for Sales Volume, Top 50 of Coldwell Banker Agents in Utah, and Top 250 Agents in the Northern Wasatch Association of Realtors. Before this, she served as executive director of the GOAL Foundation, producers of the Ogden Marathon. She was CEO of Fran Brown College of Beauty for 18 years, overseeing marketing, admissions, training, and accreditations. She serves on the WSU Alumni Association Board of Directors and Weber Chamber of Commerce Spikers Committee. Her husband, GREG SCOTHERN BS ’03, worked in construction project management with Boman Kemp Steel for over 15 years. He also spent five years in Ogden City’s Department of Development, Permits & Licensing. He most recently began a career with Crest Realty as a commercial real estate agent, utilizing his experiences with construction and the city to support this new career. He is a past chair of the GOAL Foundation and a past chair and current board member of the Trails Foundation of Northern Utah. They enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and have two adult children who currently live out of state. general manager, music director, and a DJ at Weber State’s student radio station, 88.1 KWCR. He worked with the Shepherd Union Building and Wildcat Lanes to have the station played throughout their venues. His influence helped the station win the Campus Organization of the Year Crystal Crest Award. Most importantly, he met his wife, JENNIFER LOVELAND AS ’97, BIS ’00, while attending Weber State. They have four children. SUZAN W. LOVELAND AS ’97, BS ’99 retired as a general and special education educator from the Ogden City School District in 2016. She returned as a reading specialist and paraprofessional until 2020. In 1999, she was a youth advocate, receiving certification in Targeted Case Management and Child Welfare Practice from the State of Utah Department of Human Services. While attending Weber State, she was the owner, administrator, and caregiver of Loveland Retirement Home in Roy, Utah. She earned a public administration certification from Virginia Commonwealth University and a nutrition certificate from Brigham Young University. She has always been involved in dance, owning the Suzan Loveland Dance Company and Coast to Coast Performing Company, where she was the director, choreographer, and instructor. She is the owner and manager of Sweet Addictions Candy. She volunteers with the Weber County Community Emergency Response Team, Peery’s Egyptian Theater, Onstage Ogden, DonorConnect, and the University of Utah Transplant Center. Her late father, RAYMOND FARR WIGGINS CC ’52, two children, and daughter-in-law are also Weber State graduates. CODY B. LOVELAND AS ’97, BS ’99 is a highenergy speaker, coach, and emcee who motivates, educates, and inspires people to unleash their “superpower purpose” through onboarding and employee experiences. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, schools, and non-profit organizations around the world, delivering over 10,000 hours of presentations, including two TEDx talks. As a student, he served as the ’00s RHONDA LAURITZEN BS ’01 is the founder and one of the authors/instructors at Evalogue.Life, a professional network of life story interviewers, writers, and coaches, helping people tell their stories. She regularly speaks, does keynote addresses, and presents each year at WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 45 personal life as a devoted husband and father of three. STEVEN ITO BS ’07 has been the director of sales at the Davis Conference Center and the Hilton Garden Inn since 2014. In this role, he manages a sales team that works to bring revenue and economic impact to Davis County. They recruit and manage for approximately 500 events annually, including galas, dinners, trade shows, dance competitions, cultural conferences, and more. Prior to this role, he was a sales and event manager at the conference center. He has served as a Lakesider with the Davis Chamber of Commerce for the past eight years. He and his wife, KRISTIE, met while attending Weber State. They live in Layton, Utah, with their four children. JANET BERNICE CHENEY MA ’09 is an inter- Fans brave the cold, rain, and a multi-hour storm delay for Weber’s homecoming football game on Oct. 11, 2025. RootsTech, the world’s largest family history conference. She grew up working alongside her parents and brothers in their family business, Mineral Resources International. At 23 years old, she became their general manager while attending Weber State University in the evenings. She was selected as the Outstanding Graduate in her major. She earned an MBA from the University of Utah and Internal Revenue Service, where she has worked for the past nine years. She is the chair of the In-Service Leadership Organization, which provides professional development and community engagement opportunities for IRS employees. Previously, she taught preschool and middle school for several years. After graduating from WSU, she co-founded and ran the Sweet Addictions later served as CEO of the family business for three years. In 2005, Rhonda left the family business and spent the next 11 years at Ogden-Weber Technical College as marketing director and then vice president. She made the leap to work on Evalogue.Life full-time in late 2016. Post Hill Press published her most recent book, A Child in Berlin, in October 2024. Her next book, Creative Insecurity, was co-authored and distributed by Simon & Schuster in December 2024. Candy business with her mom, Suzan, making confections and selling them to local shops and vendors. The company has been in continuous operation since its inception. Tessa has volunteered for Relay for Life in Ogden and served as chair for two years. She has also served as chairperson of Pennies by the Inch, raising money for Primary Children’s Hospital. She is a third-generation Wildcat and remains involved with WSU, frequently attending athletic and alumni events. TESSARAE LOVELAND CULLIMORE BS ’01 is CORY NIELSON BS ’01, MACC ’02 recently a human resources supervisor with the joined the Salt Lake City office of Ostrow BENJAMIN ZACK Reisin Berk & Abrams, Ltd. as an audit group director. Cory enjoys volunteering with his church and its youth program. He is involved in multiple business networking organizations, including Mountain West Capital Network and Executives Cup. He serves as a board member and financial consultant for Ogden Golf and Country Club and as a South Weber City financial consultant. DAMION WRIGHT BS ’02 is a global diversity and inclusion leader at Intuit, an international financial technology platform. He also helms Damion Wright Consulting, LLC, specializing in human resource functions, including organizational change and executive coaching. He earned a Master of Education from Colorado State University in 2012. Beyond his professional roles, he contributes as a board member to Denver-based organizations, Fathers Against Madness and Hustle Influence & Motivation. Damion balances his career with a fulfilling national best-selling author, educator, and advocate for self-love and emotional healing. She began writing her memoir as a personal letter to her sons, but that heartfelt story evolved into So Many Freakin’ Secrets. Janet studied film at Brigham Young University and had the extraordinary opportunity to meet legendary filmmaker Orson Welles during her time in Hollywood. She later earned a master’s degree in English from Weber State and has spent over two decades teaching English online and in classrooms. Through her platform, Healing Your Secrets, Janet offers resources, blogs, and speaking engagements focused on self-worth, divine guidance, and personal transformation. She is passionate about helping people embrace their full power and move forward in healing and purpose. ELIZABETH BRUMMETT BS ’09 is a mental health clinician and manager for Blomquist Hale Solutions, an employee assistance program that provides no-cost counseling services for the employees and families of participating employers. Elizabeth recently finished her Doctorate in Social Work from Walden University in 2024 with research on autism spectrum disorder. She also earned a Master of Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 2012. ’10s RACHEL COX-VINEIZ MA ’12 is the program coordinator for WSU’s Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, where she is a passionate advocate for faculty development and teaching excellence. In this role, she helps design and coordinate innovative professional development programs for faculty at Weber State. She also teaches as an adjunct instructor in Weber State’s Developmental English Program. An author at heart, Rachel penned the dystopian novel, A Light from the Ashes, and is currently working on a biographical novel about actress Maude Adams. She enjoys life with her spouse, El, and their three wonderful children. BYRON WARD BM ’14 is the recently appointed director of Athletic Bands at Utah Tech University. Before this, he was the instructor of music at Mayville State University for three years. Since graduating from Weber State, Byron has earned three additional music degrees: MM ’16 from the University of Arizona, MM ’22 and DMA ’22 from North Dakota State University. He performs regularly with area symphonies, jazz ensembles, and musical groups. His wife, SIDNEY WARD AA ’15, BS ’19, worked as an early interventionist at Pediatric Partners in Fargo, North Dakota, before they moved back to Utah. She also owns her own photography business. They have three young children. NICK ROMNEY BA ’16, BS ’17, MTAX ’18 is a CPA working as a controller for Whitaker Construction. Nick is responsible for financial operations and reporting. Nick has served on the Utah Association of CPAs Northern Chapter board for three Weber State tests the lights on the W on the hillside above campus on Sept. 15, 2025 46 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 BENJAMIN ZACK SIEG CORONEL MBA ’23 is a 2026 Juris Dogs were the stars of Weber State’s fifth annual Purple Paw Parade on Oct. 4, 2025. years and is currently vice president. He and his wife, McCall, are raising four young, energetic children they hope will also become Wildcat graduates. RACHEL WAGNER POLLARD AS ’16, ASN ’17, BSN ’18, DNP ’23 is a nurse practitioner at Legacy Dermatology in Ogden. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she worked as a registered nurse in the ER/ ICU for six years. The 2020 pandemic motivated Rachel to return to WSU for a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. She has been working in dermatology since. Rachel’s husband, JOSH POLLARD LEO ’15, completed the law enforcement certification from WSU’s Law Enforcement Academy and is currently the school resource officer for Syracuse High School. Rachel and Josh have two sons. ’20s JAYCELYN STEIN AS ’20, BS ’22 lives in her hometown of Ogden and works as a marketing specialist at Goldenwest Credit Union. She manages insurance marketing efforts and helps shape the credit union’s outreach and engagement. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her dogs. 48 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 URIEL FLORES-MONROY CANDICE FINK, ENTREPRENEURSHIP CERTIFICATE ’21 owns Hygge Day Spa in Ogden. She is a master esthetician who graduated from the Avalon Institute and has developed a business model tailored to best serve her clients. After working in the renowned spas New Image and Sego Lily, she began offering newly needed mobile services in 2020. She later opened a spa suite at Vara Salon Suites in 2022. She opened Hygge in 2024, specializing in luxurious, holistic treatments, including customized facials, body treatments, Reiki, foot and face zoning therapies, and wellness memberships tailored to her clients’ goals and needs. RYAN FINK AS ’16, BS ’17 is a home health nurse with Intermountain Homecare & Hospice and a registered nurse with Mountain View Health Services. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Montana, Missoula, in 2005. After his studies at Weber State, he earned a Master of Science in Nurse Informatics in 2023 from Western Governors University. He holds certificates from Ogden-Weber Technical College’s practical nursing and nursing assistant programs. Ryan is a member of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society. They live in Ogden. Doctorate candidate at the University of Idaho School of Law. He was born and raised in the Philippines and earned an international scholarship working for the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business with an emphasis in human resources and supply chain management from BYU-Hawaii in 2019. He went on to attend Weber State and earned an MBA. While attending Weber, he served as a graduate intern for WSU Athletics and held the position of associate justice in WSU’s Student Association Supreme Court for two years. While continuing his education, he has worked as a litigation paralegal, senior benefits and compensation analyst, legal research analyst, and, most recently, a summer associate law clerk. ALUM Sp otlight VAN WILLIAMSON BFA ’23 is a worldbuilder, character creator, storyteller, and artist. Focusing on 2-D techniques and mixed media, Van creates artworks intended to be viewed beyond our reality and into a more bizarre and whimsical one. He is the 2024 recipient of the Ogden Mayor’s Emerging Artist Award. He teaches workshops and classes for youth through Ogden Contemporary Arts’ Artist Factory, a community arts education program, and Youth Impact, a community afterschool program. He served as an artist in residence at Our Lady of Perpetual Motion in Fruita, Colorado. He has participated in the Ogden Community Art Show and the Salt Lake Community College President’s Show, along with art shows hosted at the BRDG Project of Denver, the SLC Urban Arts Gallery, and The Hand of Gawd. He was a crew member for art installations and galleries, including work by WSU faculty and sculptor Cordell Taylor, and venues such as the Dumke Arts Plaza, WSU Shepherd Union Gallery, and the Mary Elizabeth Dee Shaw Gallery. Before enrolling at Weber State, he worked as a theater technician at the Val A. Browning Center for Performing Arts. Jessica at her graduation ceremony on Dec. 13, 2024. Jessica Kokesh MPC ’24 “In our increasingly digital world, studying communication is more important than ever, and I’m glad I took the step to further my education.” — JESSICA KOKESH Be our next feature! JESSICA KOKESH is the social media editor for Weber State’s Department of Marketing & Communications. She earned a Bachelor of Contemporary Media and Journalism from the University of South Dakota in 2011. She served on the board of the former WSU Chapter of Utah Women in Higher Education. ALUMNI UPDATES All local businesses are invited to make their place purple and show Weber State and community pride. $73,723 Cats Connect Alumni Scholarship recipients, 2024 Amount raised for student scholarships at last year’s Alumni Golf Classic. Thank you to our 2025 sponsors and participants! Save the Date See you this year: JUNE 5, 2026 Supporting students through scholarships While challenging times may arise, achieving dreams is never impossible.” Every year, thousands of Weber State students benefit from scholarships made possible by generous donors. You can help students with a donation for scholarships. Any amount makes a difference! — JASMINE LAGUNAS, Annie Taylor Dee School of Nursing graduate and CATapult Scholarship recipient HOW TO GET FEATURED FOR ALL YOUR Meaningful Events Host your special event at the John A. and Telitha E. Lindquist Alumni Center. The Bill and Patricia Child Garden Room and the Moyes Garden Patio are perfect backdrops for any celebration. Contact Alumni Relations at 801-626-7535 or visit alumni. weber.edu/eventrental to learn more. Weberize Your Ride Did you know that the WSU license plate program funds student scholarships? Scan the QR code to order directly from the DMV: 1. 2. 3. 4. Select Change your plate and enter your information. Select Special Group Plate. Choose plate type Weber State University. Review Order Summary and check out. For more information, visit alumni.weber.edu/LP. Open to all alumni and community members, we want to help spread the word about your business! Follow these steps to be featured on the Weber State Alumni Association Instagram: • Follow @WeberStateAlumni on Instagram. • DM us that you’re interested in a spotlight. WILDCAT BUSINESS DIRECTORY In our continued effort to support our graduates, Alumni Relations invites all Weber State alumni-owned or operated businesses to sign up for our Wildcat Business Directory webpage. Scan this QR code, and look for the link to submit your business’s information. CONTACT US 801-626-7541 cassidymiller2@weber.edu Alumni Association Scholarships In 2024–25, nearly $180,000 in scholarships were awarded to more than 90 WSU students by the Alumni Association. 50 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 Cat2Cat CATapult Scholarship Cat2Cat is a $1,000 studentfunded scholarship started by WSU’s Student Alumni Association. The mission of Cat2Cat is to create a culture and tradition of giving back to Weber State University among current students and future alumni. CATapult Scholarships help students who are more than halfway through school overcome unexpected obstacles. These awards are designed to address students’ individual circumstances and help them complete their degree. Let’s get social! HELP US REACH 3,000 FOLLOWERS ON INSTAGRAM @WeberStateAlumni facebook.com/WSUAlumniAssociation @WeberStateU @WeberStateU WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 51 ALUMNI UPDATES Wildcat Inbox ON INSTAGRAM @weberstatealumni Our winter 2025 issue included a tribute to departing Professor of Psychology and Vice Provost for Undergraduate Studies, Academ ic Support and Institutional Effectiveness Eric Amsel, who mentored Weber State students for 28 years. We received the following letter from a former student in response. Completing Wildcat tradition No. 14 just got a whole lot easier! THANK YOU, DR. AMSEL I knew I was going to struggle with my research methods class. I was dreading it. I took it from Dr. Amsel even though I knew it would be tough. I also knew I would learn a lot from him. I knew I had to be there and really pay attention every single day. A month into the semester, my sister was diagnosed with terminal cancer and she lived far away. I knew I needed to go and be with her, but I knew I couldn’t miss a day of this class and pass it. Shortly after my sister’s diagnosis, we knew we were losing my grandmother, who I had lived with and cared for in her later years. It was a devastating time, but I was about to finish my degree and didn’t know how I would do all of the things I needed to do. Dr. Amsel was incredibly supportive. I didn’t miss too many classes, but Dr. Amsel made sure I was caught up and knew what I was doing. He made it possible for me to be with my sister, but still keep up with my class. I wanted to finish so my sister and grandma could see me graduate. We got through the semester, and I was able to do well in the class. Unfortunately, my grandma and sister died a month later, within 19 hours of each other, and didn’t get to be there in person for my graduation, but my sister knew I was graduating before she died and that meant so much to her. She was my biggest cheerleader. I will never forget what Dr. Amsel and the department did for me at that time. — DAWN POLSON BS ’11 52 weber.edu/wsumagazine WINTER 2026 Learn more about the WSU Traditions Keeper app at weber.edu/traditionskeeper. Waldo the Wildcat is Weber State’s nationally ranked mascot. His zany pranks and gravity-defying gymnastic stunts have brought @wsuwildcats fan engagement to a whole new level. If you’re lucky enough to find the frenetic feline holding still long enough, take your picture with him. If not, you can still complete this WSU tradition by getting creative. For example, find one of the bronze Waldo benches on the Weber State Ogden campus and strike a pose. Eric Amsel accepted the Weber State Alumni Association’s H. Aldous Dixon Award at a luncheon on March 22, 2017. The annual award recognizes staff and faculty members who display dedication to students. However you take a photo with Waldo the Wildcat this #TraditionTuesday, make sure to share your photos and experiences in the WSU Traditions Keeper app. Doing so will get you one step closer to being an official WSU Traditions Keeper and earning amazing rewards! The Alumni Association invited Wildcats and their dogs to the 5th Annual Purple Paw Parade festivities, held at Weber State Downtown on Oct. 4, 2025. While the usual walk through downtown Ogden was canceled due to weather, guests and their pups enjoyed making custom T-shirts, discounted shopping, treats from Daily Rise, and more. Rollin’ Rovers Mobile Dog Photography offered pet photos, and Goldenwest Insurance Services representatives met with guests and provided pup cups and bandanas. The event, which supported the Make Ogden Purple initiative, helped kick off Homecoming Week. TAKE OUR SURVEY WANT TO SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON SOMETHING YOU READ? Email us at magazine@weber.edu. Please note letters may be edited for length or clarity. PURPLE PAW PARADE FOLLOW WEBER STATE ON SOCIAL MEDIA To better serve you, our reader, give us your feedback on the magazine and what you’d like to see in it. You can also enter for a chance to win WSU gear. Use the QR code or find a link at weber.edu/wsumagazine. facebook.com/WSUAlumniAssociation @WeberStateAlumni The survey closes on March 31, 2026. @WeberStateU @WeberStateU WINTER 2026 weber.edu/wsumagazine 53 D L I W We’re ! g n i t n i r p t u o ab G SCREENPRINTIN BANN ERS G N I T N I PR DING BIN EMBROIDERY SWAG ENGRAVING Let us help you with your next project. We have lots of new equipment and want to make cool things for you or your business. We can print shirts for family reunions, corporate events, and clubs. Need a custom award or banner for an event? How about wedding invitations or graduation announcements? We've got you covered. You support us. We support Weber State students! Wildcat 801.626.6107 wsucopy.com Unlock exclusive benefits with your WSU alumni status! Enjoy auto and homeowners insurance at credit union rates. Our dedicated team will shop around and find the best deals for you from top-rated carriers such as Travelers, Safeco, Progressive, Nationwide, Farmers, Cincinnati, and Hartford. For a limited time, you can receive a Weber State University belt bag with a free insurance quote. NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE 1265 Village Dr. Dept. 4025 Ogden, UT 84408-4025 ADD YOUR VOICE & YOUR SUPPORT Amplify Weber State: The Campaign for Weber State University is WSU’s largest fundraising campaign in history, with the goal of raising $200 million to increase student opportunities, enhance their experiences, and ensure that they graduate prepared to succeed. Every gift makes a difference for current and future Wildcats. Learn more about the campaign, make a donation, and share with others — your voice is key in helping Amplify Weber State! 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