WINTER 2016

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IT CHANGES EVERYTHING \\ PG. 12

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UVU’S LATINO INITIATIVE IS REACHING OUT AND RAISING UP p g . 22 Current UVU student nurse caring for children in Samoa (Foreground). Pictured in background, Utah Trade Technical Institute Nurses in 1963. 75 YEARS OF HERITAGE, TRADITION & INNOVATION

Since 1941, University has established a rich history of engaged learning. From educating nurses to partnering with the community to create innovative solutions, UVU celebrates a heritage of preparing students with vital skills. Join us as we reflect on and celebrate 75 years of heritage, tradition, and innovation.

Learn more about 75th anniversary events at www.uvu.edu/anniversary/75th

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* Variable Rate Information: To determine the Visa credit card annual percentage rate UCCU adds a margin of 3.74% to the value of the US Prime Rate Index (Prime plus 3.74%).The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) may increase or decrease if the Prime Rate Index increases or decreases. The Prime Rate Index is the highest prime rate published in the Wall Street Journal on the 15th day of each month. If this index is no longer available, the credit union will choose a new index which is comparable to the index described herein. Some restrictions apply. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change. For a complete list of UCCU Visa disclosures please visit www.uccu.com/visa. WINTER 2016, volume 7 issue 3

PUBLISHER Jeri L. Allphin ’95

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Chris Taylor ’97

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Melinda R. Colton

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kellene Ricks Adams

STAFF WRITERS Layton Shumway Alex Sousa '15 Tasia Briggs '16 Gabriel Smith '15 12

PHOTOGRAPHY Jay Drowns Nathaniel Ray Edwards ’12 August Miller

ILLUSTRATION & DESIGN Jake Allsop '13 Colton W. Bragg ’17 ON THE COVER: LATINO INITIATIVE Brian T. Fogelberg '15 As an institution committed to diversity, UVU has been nationally recognized for Macy McClellan ’17 Rebecca Richardson '17 the Initiative's efforts in reaching out to the Latino community. Cover photo by Nathaniel Ray Edwards UVU MAGAZINE ONLINE uvualumni.org/uvumagazine

PRODUCTION University Marketing DEPARTMENTS & Communications

AD SALES Amie Hunstman ‘09 4 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE [email protected] 4 UVU NEWS 9 UVU ENGAGE FEEDBACK [email protected] 801-863-8179 16 THRU THE LENS 28 Q & A 35 INFOGRAPHIK 36 VERBATIM 42 ALUMNI NEWS

2 WINTER 2016 | CONTENTS CONTENTS

16 28 30

FEATURES

12 IT CHANGES EVERYTHING Their experience with their own son inspired Keith and Melisa Nellesen to help others dealing with autism.

16 HEAD TO HEAD The UVU men’s basketball team plays its first of four annual matches against the BYU Cougars.

28 A HOME FOR THE ARTS Successful businessman Kem Gardner talks about the University’s need for a new performing and visual arts facility.

30 LOVE AT FIRST BITE Losing his job at the bank leads UVU alum Adam Terry to success in the food truck world.

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 3 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Honoring the Past, Looking to the Future UVU Now Utah’s Largest Institution

This issue of UVU Magazine marks an exciting milestone for the University. As we usher in 2016, we will kick off the beginning of our 75th anniversary. Throughout the next 12 months, we will be commemorating our long tradition of excellence with a variety of activities, publications, and events (see “75 Years Strong” on page 42). Our 75th anniversary is designed to engage UVU stakeholders who have a past, present, PHOTO BY NATHANIEL RAY EDWARDS RAY NATHANIEL BY PHOTO and future connection to this tremendous institution. As particular events draw near, we will provide greater details to enable your Enrollment at for fall participation in this yearlong celebration. 2015 crested the 33,000 mark, making UVU A common thread among all of our events will be a focus on the the largest public institution of higher edu- transformation that has shaped UVU over the past seven decades. cation in the state. Our journey from a humble trade school to the largest institution UVU has an additional 1,879 students on of higher education in the state of Utah is filled with inspirational campus this fall — a 6 percent increase — stories of the people who make this University what it is. The bringing total enrollment to 33,211. magazine this year will feature these individuals and their “One of the marked differences between contributions in making UVU such a distinctive institution of this year’s growth and previous years is we higher learning. are positioned better than we have been to UVU provides an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, serve this surge in enrollment,” said UVU and supporters to be engaged in what has become one of the most President Matthew S. Holland. “We wouldn’t innovative educational experiences available in the nation. This be able to do this without the recent support approach is key to the core of our mission: student success. This we’ve received from the state.” commitment to student success — which starts in the classroom — is As part of its enrollment increase this year, what has driven us to this 75 Years Strong moment, and it will be UVU has experienced a spike in 21-year-old what continues to propel us as we journey toward our next 75 female students and 20-year-old male stu- years of success. dents, many of whom have returned from Please join me as we honor our past and look to the future of Utah serving LDS missions in the wake of the LDS Valley University. Church lowering its age requirement for missionary service in 2012. UVU has now Warmest regards, nearly returned to its previous enrollment watermark of 33,395, which it had reached prior to that announcement. UVU also saw a 13 percent jump in enroll- ment for freshmen, 7 percent for continuing Matthew S. Holland students, 9 percent for concurrent enroll- President ment, and 9 percent for graduate students. Full-time equivalent enrollment is up nearly 6 percent as well.

4 WINTER 2016 | UVU NEWS UVU NEWS

Women's, Men's Soccer Teams Earn First-Ever NCAA Tournament Berths

Utah Valley University’s soccer programs reached unprecedented heights in 2015, with both the women’s and men’s teams earning their first-ever NCAA tournament berths. The Wolverine women finished second in the WAC season standings and upset top-ranked Seattle University 2-0 in the WAC tournament title game, breaking Seattle’s 16- game unbeaten streak. The win, which was head coach Brent Anderson’s 100th at UVU, gave the Wolverines the WAC’s automatic NCAA tournament bid, where they lost 1-0 to nationally ranked BYU. UVU’s men’s team narrowly missed its own upset of Seattle U, losing a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the WAC tournament title game. But the NCAA tournament selection committee rewarded the Wolverines’ successful season with an at-large berth against Southern Methodist University. While UVU lost that matchup 2-0, reaching the NCAA tournament in the program’s second year was a notable achievement for the Wolverines. “Garnering an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament is a testament to the body of work our team has compiled throughout the year,” said UVU men’s soccer coach Greg Maas. PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUGUST MILLER AUGUST BY PHOTOGRAPHY University Is ‘Institution Committed to Diversity’ New Vice President Named

UVU has received the distinction as an Scott W. Cooksey, senior associate vice “Institution Committed to Diversity” by chancellor for Institutional Advancement Minority Access, Inc. The award was pre- for the Texas Tech University System, sented at the 16th National Role Models has been appointed vice president for Conference held Sept. 25–27 in Balti- development & alumni relations at Utah more, Md. Valley University. He will also serve as Fewer than 120 universities in CEO of the UVU Foundation. the United States have received the Cooksey was selected from an distinction, which is given to universities extraordinarily strong pool of candidates that are enriching the lives of their following a national search. students and concurrently contributing From 2013-2015 Cooksey served as to the strength of the nation. the interim vice chancellor for 18 months “Inclusion is one of our four core themes, where he managed all institutional so receiving the distinction is certainly advancement programs in the TTU System recognition that we are achieving what and its four component institutions. we’ve set out to do,” said UVU President As interim vice chancellor, Cooksey Matthew S. Holland. “We are committed increased gifts to the system by 14 to providing educational opportunities percent in 2014, the second highest for individuals from a wide variety fundraising year in the system’s history. of backgrounds and perspectives. I He assisted in the completion of the applaud all those who are successfully Vision & Tradition Campaign, which transforming our commitment to raised $1.069 billion. He also served as diversity into real-life experiences for COO of Texas Tech Foundation with total

our students.” EDWARDS RAY NATHANIEL BY PHOTO assets of nearly $542 million.

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 5 UVU NEWS

Classroom Building Earns Gold LEED Distinction for Sustainability

Exceeding Utah’s requirement that all new state buildings receive silver certification, UVU has received a gold distinction from Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design for its new Classroom Building. To receive LEED certification, building projects must satisfy prerequisites and earn points to achieve different levels, which range from certified to platinum, with gold being the second highest ranking possible. “We’re pleased that the Classroom Building scored at this level,” said Frank Young, associate vice president of facilities planning. “This rating shows our students and faculty the commitment we have to using our resources sustainably and wisely.” The Classroom Building is the newest and largest addition to UVU campus. With the expansion, more than 3,000 classroom seats are offered per hour, which is a much-needed increase for the growing

PHOTO BY NATHANIEL RAY EDWARDS RAY NATHANIEL BY PHOTO population at the University.

School of Education Ranked Nationally Student Alumni Association Wins National Engagement Honor

UVU’s Student Alum- ni Association won its first-ever national honor for its student engage- ment campaign, “Stop TOP 25 Being Boring.” The Uni- In October 2015, the National Council on Teacher Quality versity was awarded the released its Best Value ratings of colleges of education and Outstanding Internal named Utah Valley University’s School of Education as one of Program National Award the top 25 in the nation. from the Council for the To determine the best value, the comprehensive measure Advancement and Sup- took into account the quality of education programs and the port of Education (CASE) cost of attendance for each program. UVU’s selection as one Affiliated Student Advance- of the top 25 in the nation means that it ranks among the best ment Program. “Stop Being

from both a financial and quality perspective. Boring” won the district EDWARDS RAY NATHANIEL BY PHOTO “The ranking of our teacher preparation programs in award last spring, which sent UVU to this competition. the School of Education by NCTQ is one more national The annual awards recognize outstanding student and recognition of the quality work we are doing to prepare advisor leadership and achievements as well as outstanding outstanding teachers at UVU,” said Parker Fawson, dean of student educational advancement programming by CASE the School of Education. ASAP member organizations. Colleges, schools, and programs included in the Best Value “We’re pleased to receive this recognition,” said Kevin analysis range from undergraduate to graduate and those that Walkenhorst, assistant director of alumni relations. “We specialize in elementary or secondary preparedness. build loyalty, educate students on what it means to be This marks the first time that a national education policy alumni, connect students with alumni, promote a culture organization has conducted a comprehensive measure of of philanthropy so students have an opportunity to give quality that factored in affordability, average teacher salary, back to other students and the University, and develop and ability to prepare future teachers for the classroom. leaders.”

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UVU STUDENT FACILITATES HEALING PROCESS IN THOSE WHO ARE GRIEVING PHOTO BY NATHANIEL RAY EDWARDS RAY NATHANIEL BY PHOTO

One in 20 children will experience the she needs to become a licensed social port, we have a better chance of stu- death of a parent before the age of 18, worker. dents getting a degree and adding to the according to the Center for Loss and “I am going through loss myself,” she community.” Life Transition. Children who have lost says. “Because of this, I can help others The Bradley Center, located in South a parent are five times more likely to in the group and they can always count Jordan, Utah, was founded by Carrie commit suicide, nine times more likely on me to be there with them.” Moore and Janice Taylor in 2011 after to drop out of high school, and 20 times Leon was introduced to the group both women lost their husbands. The more likely to participate in risk behav- through Grace Chou, a professor of center is dedicated to providing chil- iors than their peers. sociology. dren and families with a supportive Utah Valley University has partnered “I felt that I was meant to be a part of peer community while grieving. The with the Bradley Center for Grieving this program,” Leon says. “Not only am participants are encouraged to draw on Children and Families to provide re- I gaining hands-on experience that I their own inner strength and faith to sources for students and community can use for my career, but I am also able begin healing after the death of a loved members who have lost a loved one. to be a part of this support system.” one. UVU provides a place where they can She hopes that by helping those who The center is one of five faith-based begin the healing process — and facili- are involved with this program she can community partners that UVU is tate that healing in others. make a difference in their lives and working with in order to cultivate un- UVU student Kelly Leon is hoping their education. And as a student her- derstanding across religious bound- she can provide the help others need. self, Leon wants to remind others that aries and further the mission of the Leon, a junior pursuing a bachelor’s even as times get hard, they cannot University. degree in behavioral science with an turn their backs on completing their “Not only am I experiencing what emphasis in family studies, is a facili- education. other members are going through, I am tator of the grief group, which meets “It’s hard to keep being involved able to help others as well,” Leon says. weekly on campus. She hopes that the and to keep going to class when you “There is a lot of satisfaction in what I experience she is gaining by working are grieving with no one to support do.” with this program will give her skills you,” says Leon. “By providing sup- — Tasia Briggs

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 9 10 UVU ENGAGE

STUDENT CHOOSES EMS EDUCATION AT UVU BECAUSE OF ITS ENGAGED LEARNING

n the rapidly evolving industry of emergency medical services, Utah Valley University’s 15-year com- mitment to providing students with Iexcellence in paramedic education has never been better, which attracts excep- tional students such as freshman Kather- ine Nichols of Farmington, N.Y. “I got involved with the medical field when I was about 13 or 14, when I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes,” says Nichols. “Because of my experience with that, family and friends recruited me to help them with their various ailments.” Nichols’ personal health issues have led her to pursue a career in health services ever since. Immediately following high school graduation, she became a certi- fied nursing assistant and began work in the long-term healthcare industry. After her experiences there, Nichols quickly found she wanted more. “I learned I had an appreciation for acute care,” says Nich- EDWARDS RAY NATHANIEL BY PHOTO ols. “I had a desire to be an ER nurse, but I knew I wanted to be able to see the other getting students more involved — and programs have access to those who cur- side of things too. That’s why I wanted to that matches up with how I learn,” she rently work in the field, allowing stu- get involved with EMS.” says. “I knew it would be a good fit.” dents the opportunity to participate in Her pursuit to “see the other side of Nichols believes that in an industry ride-alongs, among other things. things” led her to look for schools to such as EMS, learning and training in These firsthand experiences give stu- further her education and advance her hands-on situations will better prepare dents the opportunity to regularly necessary qualifications. In consider- students for real-life experiences they see the intense and serious reality of ing universities and programs to help her will face in the field following their for- emergency services. achieve her EMS goals, she finally set- mal education. Nichols will complete her paramedic tled on UVU — more than 2,000 miles UVU and the College of Aviation & certification this spring and will pur- from her hometown. Public Services are committed to pro- sue a bachelor’s degree in emergency “I heard that UVU was a great school viding engaged learning environments. management. in terms of engaged learning — just Students enrolled in emergency services — Gabriel Smith

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 11 SPOTLIGHT

by Kellene Ricks Adams | photography by August Miller

elisa Nellesen knew from the day her son, “I don’t remember a lot of what happened at the MCole, was born 17 years ago that something hospital,” he continues. “It’s kind of a blur. But wasn’t right. “Even as a baby, he just always one thing I do remember: When the doctor gave seemed to have a glazed look,” she says. “He us the diagnosis, she said, ‘I’ve been in a room wasn’t ‘there.’ He didn’t like to snuggle or be when we’ve told parents their child has cancer, held; he just wanted to be in his crib.” and I’ve been in a room when we’ve told parents Then Cole started missing important milestones their child has autism, and the emotions are the — crawling, walking, talking. By the time he was same.’ It definitely means the end of certain two, he'd only said one word. And then he lost hopes and dreams you have for your child. It the ability to even say that. changes everything.” “We took him to our pediatrician, who “Instead of picturing Cole going on dates and mentioned autism and referred us to Primary graduating, we focus on sharing toys and potty Children’s Hospital,” said Melisa’s husband, training,” says Melisa, who notes that individuals Keith. “After a neuropsychologist looked at him on the autism spectrum can function on vastly and did testing, that was the diagnosis. different levels.

12 WINTER 2016 | SPOTLIGHT COLE NELLESEN AND HIS FAMILY, PARENTS KEITH AND MELISA AND TWO SISTERS, SPEND AN EVENING AT HOME.

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 13 TUTOR BREE FOWLES COMES TO THE NELLESEN HOME TO WORK WITH COLE.

A Central Resource Initially, Keith said his first thought the Board of Regents and aptly named The second floor of the center is was, “How can I fix this?” It didn’t the Melisa Nellesen Autism Center. expected to feature a flexible space take him long to discover he couldn’t. The 10,000-square-foot building for training and engagement for Nothing he or Melisa — or anyone will bring together national best families and community members; else, for that matter — could do would practices, innovative educational this space is made possible through a change Cole’s diagnosis. Instead, the research, and insights gained from donation by Brent and Kathryn Wood, Nellesens have devoted their time community partners to provide a resource owners of Clear Horizons Academy in learning all they could about autism for students and families affected by Orem. The two playground areas and and changing the hopes and dreams autism. The center is completely funded sensory landscaping are being funded they have for Cole. by private and corporate donations and by dōTERRA. has donated One of the most daunting challenges will house therapy rooms for counseling, funding for two sensory room suites, the Nellesens faced was finding out diagnostics, social skills groups, and Vivint CEO Todd Pedersen and his more about autism and how they could and family support; sensory rooms, wife, Andrea, are personally funding best help their son. “It was a scary playgrounds, and a landscape that the pre-K classroom. Casey Baugh, time,” remembers Melisa. “We had no will enhance children’s motor skills a vice president of sales at Vivint, idea what to do, and there weren’t a lot and ability to engage in science is funding the Casey and Chelsea of resources out there. There weren’t exploration. Baugh Classroom, and John R. any programs or schools. We really had The building will also be used by Pestana, cofounder of Omniture, to figure it out for ourselves.” UVU’s Passages program, which has donated additional funding for That lack of a central resource provides the opportunity for young an interior space. for people dealing with autism — adults on the autism spectrum to enroll Others who have made signi- individuals, families, teachers, and in noncredit college-level classes. ficant donations include Mitch others — is one of the main reasons These courses are designed to enhance Burton, The Kahlert Foundation, the Nellesens made the cornerstone the social and independent life skills Scott McLachlan, Sorensen Legacy gift for Utah Valley University’s new necessary for them to be successful in Foundation, and Utah Community autism facility, recently approved by a higher education setting. Credit Union.

14 WINTER 2016 | SPOTLIGHT The Ripple Effect “The Nellesens’ kind and generous One in 54 children in Utah is “This donation comes at a critical time donation, along with the other amazing diagnosed each year with autism for autism and UVU,” observes Teresa donations we have received, is significant spectrum disorder — the second highest Cardon, the center's interim director. in breadth and depth because it impacts in the nation— and UVU is leading out “Wait lists for autism supports in Utah families now and also has a substantial regionally in providing resources for are getting longer and longer, and UVU ripple effect going forward,” observes these families, as well as students and is ready to train more and more people Laurie Bowen, director of community professionals who want to serve them. who want to learn about autism. The services for the Melisa Nellesen Autism The University has formed the Autism Nellesens’ generosity will allow us to Center. “And it isn’t just the money — Initiative Committee, co-chaired by have a dedicated space where we can while that is amazing on its own — but David Yells, dean of the College of train special education students, autism it is their personal dedication to assisting Humanities & Social Sciences, and studies students, community partners, those in our community. The Nellesens have Parker Fawson, dean of the School of first responders, businesses, and anyone always demonstrated a care and love for the Education; the University also offers else who is interested in becoming part families and children in our community to an autism studies minor and autism of the autism community.” have access to the support needed for best certificate program. outcomes in autism.”

COLE OFTEN EATS ALONE TO AVOID SENSORY OVERLOAD.

Intense, Emotionally Exhausting Work The Nellesens understand the impor- another therapist who started with Cole classroom and is able to communicate tance of finding help in a very when he was four and still works with on a fundamental level, although Keith personal way. Ultimately, they chose him today. When people choose to be a and Melisa aren’t sure how much he to start Cole in applied behavior analysis therapist of an autistic child, they have actually comprehends. What they are therapy and paid for private tutors to something amazing in them. sure of, however, is that helping him come to their home 40 hours a week to “We were blessed,” Melisa continues. learn even the basics has made a huge work with their son; they actually spent “We had the financial resources to get difference to them. much of their time teaching the tutors the help we needed. So many other “Our family life is much better who came to work with Cole. “There’s a families don’t. Through the years, because Cole can communicate with huge need for people who have skills in we’ve tried to help individual families. us and function,” Keith says. “And we this field,” Keith points out. We’d hear about one family and then reached this point because we found It was intense, emotionally exhausting another, and our heart went out to all of information and help. That’s what work for everyone, but it was also them, but we couldn’t help everyone. we’re hoping this center will become — rewarding. Cole had one therapist who This center is the most effective way for a place where families can find a small was a hemophiliac. “Cole would bite us to use our money.” army of people who are trained and him, but he still came back because he Today, Cole’s abilities are fairly educated and who can offer them help loved our son,” says Melisa. “We have basic. He attends school in a contained and hope.”

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 15 OWNS D JAY DR ARDS, AN RAY EDW THANIEL ILLER, NA AUGUST M APHY BY 16 PHOTOGR FALL 2015 | FEATURE THRU THE LENS

distance of only five miles separates Utah Valley University A from its nearest academic neighbor. But despite the proximity, has only faced the Wolverines once in men’s basketball — in Provo back in 2003.

Since then, UVU hoops has come a long way: full Division-I status, a WAC regular-season title, even a star alum still playing in the NBA in Ronnie Price. But the Wolverines haven’t had another opportunity to travel those five miles to face BYU — until this past November.

New head coach , who made that five-mile journey in the opposite direction when he left his position as a BYU assistant coach to join UVU, led the Wolverines into the Marriott Center for the first time in over a decade. And while UVU lost the game, the team will have another shot at the Cougars in each of the next three sea- sons, including a first-ever matchup at the UCCU Center in 2017.

17 While the matchup is new, UVU and BYU know each other well, with former BYU assistant coach Cody Fueger and forward Isaac Neilson joining UVU.

18 WINTER 2016 | THRU THE LENS Hundreds of fans in UVU green dotted the Marriott Center crowd, including more than 100 MAWL (Mighty Athletic Wol- verine League) representatives. Even as UVU trailed on the score- board, Wolverine supporters could be heard throughout the arena, at times louder than BYU's home fans.

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 19 Pope's first season has been hampered by player injuries, but ambitions are high. "I have a lot of faith in these players," Pope says. "They are terrific young men."

20 WINTER 2016 | THRU THE LENS It’s a new era UTAH VALLEY BASKETBALL

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WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE @WOLVERINEGREEN 21 FEATURE

STUDENTS.STUDENTS. FAMILY.FAMILY. COMMUNITY.COMMUNITY.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHANIEL RAY EDWARDS

22 22 WINTER 2016 | FEATURE

THE LATINO INITIATIVE AT UVU ISN'T JUST ABOUT STUDENT SUCCESS; IT’S ABOUT BUILDING 'SOMETHING MORE' FOR THE GENERATIONS TO COME

BY ALEX SOUSA

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 23 It’s late, and the hallways of Pleasant says. “There is a lot of value in having Latino Initiative before becoming the Grove Junior High are empty. Every- students bring their culture to campus, special assistant to President Matthew thing is quiet except for a single class- along with their individual narratives.” S. Holland for inclusion. In those early room tucked away in the corner of the The truth is, the unparalleled success days, he helped lay the groundwork for school’s guidance center. About 40 that UVU has seen with its Latino Initia- what the program would become. people, parents and students — families tive could be from any one of the many “I sat across from Wayne Mangelson, — are gathered there, all sitting in plas- elements that make up the program, the associate vice president for career tic chairs arranged in a loose semicircle. or the synergy of them all working and academic advisement, and I asked Behind them, refreshments are laid out together. But at the root of the ini- him how I would know when the initia- on a table. Principal Brian Jolley stands tiative is a simple campaign geared tive had become a success. What were at the head of the room, his Powerpoint toward community outreach, which the metrics by which I could measure presentation at the ready. seems to be what drives everything the success of an initiative like this? “Bienvenidos,” he says. “Vamos a that has happened. And all the prog- “Mangelson looked at me and he put hablar del éxito de los estudiantes.” ress can be attributed to the dedicated his hands up. ‘We don’t know. That’s We’re going to talk about student success. staff working to find the ones who need why we hired you,’ he told me. ‘But we The crowd nods as he turns the the initiative the most. are committed to this.’” time over to Yudi Lewis. She’s the For four months, Reyes conducted program director for the Latino Ini- EN EL PRINCIPIO research, contacting Latino communi- tiative at Utah Valley University, and ty members in their homes and asking IN THE BEGINNING this is just one of several orientations what they would want from the school she’ll give this week. if they could have anything. In that first In 2007, just before UVSC began tran- “Who wants to go to college?” she year, a dozen programs began, includ- sitioning to a university, then-presi- says, speaking in her native Spanish. ing Latinos Unidos, Latinos in Business dent William A. Sederburg was asked a All of the teenagers raise their hands. Related Education, and Celebración question: What are you doing for His- So do some of the parents. “Perfecto,” Latinoamericana, where 20 scholar- panic students? In response, he began she says. ships were awarded to Latino students. researching the answer. There were The Latino Initiative at UVU has prov- The celebración was a huge success, programs around campus focused on en to be a success. What began as a ques- filling the Grande Ballroom with mem- helping Latino students, but they were tion and an idea in 2007 has grown to a bers of the Latino community and small and disconnected from one an- nationally recognized effort in higher opening the eyes of the University’s ad- other, operating quietly on their own. education to provide pathways to suc- ministration to just how expansive that Because of that, their successes had cess for a historically underrepresented community was. been understandably limited. demographic. The presence of those programs Ask Lewis what the key to that suc- EN SU PROPIA MANERA proved their need, but what had been cess has been and she'll list off any done so far didn’t seem to be enough. IN THEIR OWN WAY number of elements that have made the The 980 Latino students who were at- program work: a collaborative rela- tending the school at that time needed Eight years have passed since those tionship with the administration and something more. Their families and early days of the initiative, and the faculty, a myriad of programs designed community needed something more. A number of Latino students at UVU has toward engagement and retention, a state college on the cusp of becoming a tripled, the graduation numbers have strong community of support from university was the perfect place to fig- increased by 118 percent, and UVU school districts and community orga- ure out what that something was. is recognized for having the highest nizations. The list goes on. “I still remember sitting in the room Latino student enrollment numbers — “We have very passionate individu- following my interview, after accept- 3,332 in fall 2015 — in the state of Utah als on campus who are willing to do so ing the position,” says Kyle Reyes, who among all four-year institutions. The much to make sure that students have took the job as the first director of the initiative has been honored by the access to higher education,” Lewis

24 WINTER 2016 | FEATURE “When I work with students, it's not just about working with the one individual, it's about working with his or her future generations. We're basically impacting the world to come.”

– YUDI LEWIS

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 25 White House Initiative on Education- “It’s about the ability to go out and tunity to reach for something higher,” al Excellence for Hispanics and was have a conversation with parents and Lewis says. “So when I work with stu- named one of the top five finalists in students about college,” says Lewis. dents, it’s not just about working with the 2013 and 2015 Excelencia in Edu- “And in that conversation, what I have the one individual, it’s about working cation’s Examples of Excellence. found is that students want to pursue a with his or her future generations. We’re People often ask what UVU is do- college education, but a lot of the time basically impacting the world to come.” ing differently than other institutions they don’t know how to do that. We go The concern for the community as a to reach the Latino population. “We’re out and provide that information. Now whole has been the guiding directive trying to meet the Latino community students see UVU as an option — an op- behind the Latino Initiative. In the ear- where it’s at,” says Reyes. “Rather than tion to have a better future.” ly years of the program, a portion of its say, ‘Come to campus for this financial Before taking the post as the direc- budget was spent on TV and radio spots. aid night,’ we’ll say, ‘How about UVU tor of the Latino Initiative, Lewis had Reyes and Lewis quickly realized that sponsors 15 orientations or financial- worked at the University for 12 years as approach might work to reach statewide aid nights at the high school nearest both an academic and career counselor. and national communities, but if they you?’ It’s still UVU, but we’re in their When the initiative first started, she wanted to reach the regional commu- comfort zone, their culturally relevant joined committees and involved her- nity, they needed to do something dif- space.” self in the program, which two years ferent. From the beginning of the initia- later she would be running. Born in “We knew that the local Latino net- tive, those involved were committed to the Dominican Republic and raised in work was more powerful than these so- serving the regional Latinos in a place New York, she saw an opportunity to cial media announcements,” says Reyes. they knew and understood. Perhaps give back and help others the same way “We knew that was only going to reach this is the reason UVU has become so she’d been helped. a certain population, and we wanted to approachable. “We’re giving individuals the oppor- make sure that we were reaching the

26 WINTER 2016 | FEATURE HASTA EL FUTURO “We’re giving TO THE FUTURE

“Necesitamos algo más,” says one of the mothers at Pleasant Grove Junior individuals the High. We need something more. Lewis nods her head, tells the woman she’s right. Doing something more is exactly opportunity to reach what the Latino Initiative is about. It’s about educating people, about giving them the resources to succeed. It’s for something higher.” helping them find a direction that they had always wanted to find for themselves, their children, and the generations to come. – YUDI LEWIS The Latino Initiative isn’t only about the individual, it’s about building a firm foundation for the future. The program lives and dies on individuals historically underserved Latino popu- University's efforts were having. succeeding so that the lives of every- lation — those who weren’t accessing “We already had the critical mass in one around them can be better. The the information.” the community,” says Reyes. “We sort students sitting in that classroom at They began to blitz the community of set this informal goal that the UVU Pleasant Grove Junior High will be able with fliers. Soccer games on Sunday, student community would at least to go to college; maybe some of their malls, hair salons, tiendas, mercados, match the demographics of the broader parents will go too. Eventually, the churches — every possible place that Utah County community.” children of those students, a new and the community they were trying to Under the guidance of Lewis, who rising generation, will attend as well. reach frequented, UVU was there. has been director of the Latino Initiative When asked, the students say they With boots on the ground, UVU found since 2009, the program has exploded. want to be teachers, lawyers, and engi- the community it had always wanted With limited resources and small teams neers, and with the guidance they’re to reach and began to earn its trust. staffed largely with interns, the direc- receiving now, they’ll be on track to The initiative served to strengthen tors of the initiative have successfully do that. And if the Latino Initiative that relationship, promoting an ac- communicated with the greater part of does its job, those students will be tive interest in the lives of commu- the Latino community, reaching them successful and give back to help their nity members. Reyes and his small in their own environment, earning communities grow. team began a partnership with Provo their trust, and letting them know they A father sitting in the back row with School District, which has a large La- have a place at UVU. his son raises his hand. “This program tino population. They started the Lati- “I think that if any university is au- helped us so much,” he says. Nos ayudó no Educators of Tomorrow, a program thentic to this idea of being an inclusive bastante. He’s emphatic, passionate; encouraging students to pursue careers institution — which we declare we are his voice even wavers a little as he as educators and helping them enter — then we’ve got to recognize histori- continues. “I’ve had two daughters go UVU’s School of Education. The first cal inequities,” says Reyes. “We say, through the program, and now I have year the program had 30 students in- ‘Do we continue to create this space for my son here. Everyone should do this. volved, the second year 60 students the Latino community, or do we stop?’ It helped us so much.” Lewis nods enrolled — proof of the impact the And I can’t imagine we’ll stop.” again. “Perfecto,” she says.

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 27 QALUMNI & A NEWS

A HOME A HOME forfor THETHE ARTSARTS

BusinessmanBusinessman Kem Kem Gardner Gardner believes that UVU — and the Utah believesValley that community UVU as— a and whole the — Utah Valleydeserve community a beautiful, state-of-the- as a whole — art facility where performers can deserveshare a beautiful, their skills and state-of-the-art talents. facility where performers can share their skills and talents.

28 WINTERWINTER 20162016 || QQ && AA Last year, Utah Valley University an- by creating a home for the symphony take at least one fine arts class, so nounced it had raised nearly $16.5 in key communities spread through- this building will benefit a significant million in private donations to build out Utah. Utah County is one of those majority of UVU students. a performing and visual arts facility, a key communities, but currently our much-needed addition to its growing options are limited for spaces where the In addition, research indicates that sig- campus. Approval for design and plan- symphony can perform there. nificant cognitive abilities are developed ning of this project was given during through arts classes that strengthen the 2015 legislative session, and UVU is Of course, a concert hall fit for the Utah other skills, including learning and requesting $30 million to assist in the Symphony will be only one piece of this performance in the areas of math and funding of the 140,000-square-foot gorgeous facility, which will also house science. Again, these are benefits en- facility during this legislative session. public areas for art exhibits; venues for joyed by UVU students in every major dance, music, and theater performanc- and in every department. Kem Gardner is working alongside es; and essential teaching, learning, and other key private donors to lead the collaborative spaces. Every area of fine And it’s not just the students who benefit efforts to build the facility. Gardner, arts will finally have a home at UVU. As from a facility like this. As president of chairman of the Gardner Company, a part of this project, the University will one of the largest development compa- private commercial real estate firm, also renovate space for a dance complex nies in the state, I meet regularly with and his wife, Carolyn, have pledged a featuring six large teaching studios. people who are considering moving into $1.5 million gift. Utah to establish their businesses. They Why is it important for UVU to look at the culture of a region — the avail- have this facility? ability of symphonies and orchestras and the ballet and theater — because they I’ve heard President Matthew S. Hol- know these types of things indicate a land say that the mark of any serious strong, vibrant community. university is its commitment to the arts, and I absolutely agree. The Uni- Where does the project versity’s School of the Arts includes the currently stand? departments of Art & Visual Commu- nications, Dance, Music, and Theatri- We are committed to raising $20 million, cal Arts for Stage & Screen. Students which is the largest amount of private and groups in all of these departments funding raised for a new facility in the have earned prestigious national and history of the University. We plan on international awards. requesting the remaining $30 million ($20 million for construction and $10 Most of us recognize the value of qual- million for ongoing maintenance) ity learning environments and labs for from the Utah Legislature this year. science- and math-based education, but we often don’t understand the im- Funding for the project has come from portance of providing the same qual- a variety of sources, including the Ray Kem Gardner ity learning environments for students & Tye Noorda Foundation, which pro- who are studying the arts. vided the anchor gift. Other donations have come from the Marriott Foundation, As the largest public institution in the Ira Fulton, Scott Anderson, Utah Coun- state, the time has definitely come for ty, the UVU Foundation, and hundreds Why do you personally feel so this building. UVU students — and the of other private donors. strongly about the need for UVU Utah Valley community as a whole — to have a performing and visual deserve a beautiful, state-of-the-art I would encourage everyone to get arts facility? facility where performers can share involved; no donation is too small, and their skills and talents with apprecia- of course, no donation is too large. I have always loved music, especially tive audiences that can enjoy and ap- classical music. I currently serve as an plaud all that the arts bring into our lives. executive committee member on the Board of Trustees for the Utah Sympho- Which groups will be served by Visit uvu.edu/bemoved ny, and I believe that a symphony is the a new performing and visual to find out more about the flagship of any community’s culture. arts center? The Utah Symphony has a goal to be- performing and visual arts facility and how you can help. come one of America’s top orchestras, This facility is not just for fine arts and we hope to achieve that, in part, PHOTO BY ALEXANDER LEVITSKY, SHUTTERSTOCK, INC. SHUTTERSTOCK, LEVITSKY, ALEXANDER BY PHOTO majors; two-thirds of students at UVU

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 29 FEATURE

LoLovvee atat FFiirrsstt BiBittee UVU alumnus follows dreams and develops nationally acclaimed Wa e Love food truck business

by Melinda R. Colton

our years ago Adam Terry was standing After graduating from Utah Valley University- in a freezing parking lot with tears in his in 2009 with a degree in international business, eyes, trying to figure out how to tell his Terry landed a position at a local bank. It was the wife, Melissa, he had just lost his job at pivotal year of the economic downturn and the bank. finding employment was highly competi- tive. For the next two years he worked hard The couple had been living the pastseven years at becoming one of the top bankers at his in a one-bedroom apartment with their three branch. He had just switched to another bank sons and had just made an offer on a home. It was that he thought would provide more upward the worst day of his life. He felt desperate. He was opportunities for him. Two weeks later he panicked. How was he going to take care of his was let go. family?

30 30 WINTER 2016 | Q & A PHOTO BY AUGUST MILLER AUGUST BY PHOTO WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 31 PHOTO BY FOOD NETWORK FOOD BY PHOTO

ADAM TERRY, WITH HIS TWO BROTHERS, STEVEN AND JARED, COMPETED ON THE SIXTH SEASON OF FOOD NETWORK'S "THE GREAT FOOD TRUCK RACE," SENDING THEM ALONG ROUTE 66 IN PURSUIT OF THE $50,000 GRAND PRIZE.

Terry and his family survived on their His first inkling of owning his own helped me clarify what I was interested savings for the next seven months. As business occurred at UVU during his in.” the fifth of 14 children, Terry knew how capstone course. Terry’s team received As his business plan began to ma- to work. He spent the next year work- the highest score for running a simulat- terialize, Terry originally considered ing temporary jobs that brought in just ed business. “UVU is a unique place,” opening a full-scale restaurant but enough money to survive. He also spent he observes. “I worked closely with knew he couldn’t even afford to pay for a lot of time thinking about what his my professors because class sizes were a sign. As he considered the emerging next steps would be. smaller. UVU is a wonderful school trend of food trucks in urban settings, His entrepreneurial ambition had that is serving a niche. It is fulfilling a he realized a food truck was the better long been drawn to the idea of running fantastic need for so many.” way to go. his own restaurant — a high-risk, com- As Terry developed his business plan With a family loan of $5,000, he petitive market for start-ups. Melissa he realized the importance of the fi- bought his first truck in 2012 and start- worried that it was too risky and en- nancial classes he had taken. “I had ed his dream business — Waffle Love. couraged him to find employment that been exposed to all different kinds of Melissa, an artist, designed the com- was more secure, but Terry decided it businesses and entrepreneurs in my pany’s logo around their slogan: Love at was finally time to see if he could make classes at UVU,” he says, “and I could first bite. a go of his own business. “In my heart immediately see the applications of Waffle Love doesn’t offer just any of hearts, I knew I could make it work,” all the things I had learned. It took me waffle. First introduced in Belgium, he says. five years to get through college, but it the liege waffle is an indulgence,

32 WINTER 2016 | FEATURE known for its caramelized sugar atop a sweet and crispy brioche- style delight. “I am the type of guy who, when I find a food I like, becomes obsessed with making it until I get it just right,” Terry explains. “I became obsessed with perfecting the liege AA RoyalRoyal DelicacyDelicacy waffle.” The liege waffle comes from the city of Liege in the Wallonia Waffle Love was one of the first food trucks in Provo. Terry recalls park- region of Belgium. The tasty treat was first made in the 18th ing his truck on Center Street in Provo century by the chef of the Prince-Bishop of Liege. The delicacy and having the police stop by and tell him they weren’t sure if he could park is made by adding pearl sugar to dough similar to that of bri- downtown. “I spent the next several oche; when cooked on the iron, the pearls melt and caramelize, months working with the city and the county health department to get all of forming big bites of crisp, browned sugar. the rules and regulations determined so I could run my business,” he says. Today, food trucks have grown in popularity. Utah County has more than 30 trucks, many of which par- ticipate in Food Truck Round-ups throughout the county. According to Terry’s business plan, he knew he needed to sell 100 waffles a day to break even. His first day he only sold 13 — he didn’t hit the 100-waffle mark for another three months. “I had to keep my chin up,” he says. “I had to think as though I was selling 100 waf- fles a day. It was easy to get discour- aged in the early days, but I kept at it and knew I would figure it out eventu- ally.” Melissa began using social media to build momentum for Waffle Love. It worked. Today, the food truck has Belgium more than 6,200 Twitter follow- Liege ers, 50,000 followers on Instagram, and approximately 44,000 likes on Facebook. And the days of selling 100 waffles are long gone. Terry added five more trucks, and he and his 70 employees sell 1,700 waffles a day. The trucks can be found in Utah, Salt Lake, Davis, and Weber counties, as well as in St. George, Utah, and Gilbert, Ariz. Terry is also in negotiations for trucks in Long Beach, Calif., and Las Vegas, and he hopes to one day open a shop on the UVU campus. The past few years Terry has focused on growing his business. “We’ve tried not to grow too fast,” he notes. “We only grow when sales support another truck.”

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 33 He said the most difficult part about He is definitely a fan of his product; a company in Logan, fruit from lo- starting his own business was the daily the biscoff and cream waffle is his fa- cal farms from Payson to Paradise, and battle in his head. “As you start a busi- vorite. His family members are some of fresh honey from a Provo-based com- ness, you’ll always face plenty of ob- his biggest fans too, even though he re- pany. “I am a business owner and want stacles. People will think you are crazy quires them to stand in line like every- to do whatever I can to support other and discourage you from following your one else whenever they stop by. small business owners,” he says. “A dream,” Terry says. “Be diligent about Terry continues to refine his prod- quality waffle also keeps people com- keeping positive thoughts in your head. uct, using fresh ingredients grown ing back for more.” Be your biggest fan.” right here in Utah. He buys wheat from PHOTO BY FOOD NETWORK FOOD BY PHOTO THE WAFFLE LOVE TEAM AND OTHER FOOD TRUCK COMPETITORS LISTEN TO INSTRUCTIONS DURING THE FOOD TRUCK COMPETITION.

Food Network Fan Favorite

Waffle Love customers have told Adam Terry for years that he need- “This was the first time the three of us had ever worked together ed to audition for the Food Network series, “The Great Food Truck on a truck,” Terry said. “It was a high-stress situation. I am a self- Race.” When season six featured established food trucks for the first taught cook, so some of the cooking challenges were pretty difficult time, Terry knew this was his chance. for me.” With only two weeks until the start of the show’s production, Being a finalist on the show was serendipitous for Terry. The Terry and his two brothers, Steve and Jared, sent an audition tape show propelled his business into the national spotlight. Although to Food Network producers. The network had already selected five Waffle Love finished second on “The Great Food Truck Race,” the trucks to be on the show, but after watching the tape, Waffle Love brothers received 86 percent of the vote as the fan favorite. was added. Finishing second by a matter of minutes, Waffle Love is now a Following historic Route 66, the food trucks competed in cook- celebrated brand on Food Network with a national social media fol- ing and selling challenges in Santa Monica, Calif.; Flagstaff, Lake lowing, and Terry is tight with foodies across the nation. And it all Havasu, and Sedona, Ariz.; Santa Fe, N.M.; Amarillo, Texas; Tulsa, started with an impulsive, last-minute call to a producer at the Food Okla.; St. Louis, Mo.; and Chicago. The final prize was $50,000. Network. 34 Season six can be viewed at www.thefoodnetwork.com INFOGRAPHIK

WaffleWaffleAlthough Adam TerryLoveLove says love is the main WeeklyWeeklyingredient in his waffles, he also uses other locally sourced ingredients to make the 1,700 waffles he sells every week.

gallons of ice cream 3535 gallons 150150 of cream

800800 pounds of strawberries

pounds of 520520bananas

33.5 oz jars of Nutella 175175 5050 jars of Biscoff

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 35 VERBATIM Generosity Instills Hope

UVU celebrates 25th anniversary of the President’s Scholarship Ball, which raises money for UVU’s most prestigious scholarship

EDITOR’S NOTE: Ransom Cundick, a junior accounting major from Santaquin, Utah, was the student speaker at the 25th annu- al President’s Scholarship Ball held October 2015. Through the years, more than 800 students have received the Presiden- tial Scholarship, which assists with full tuition, fees, books, and a monthly stipend. These are his remarks.

rowing up, I lived in a My older sister, however, told me in my son’s life, while still prepar- household without col- that there are people out there, hu- ing for his future. Not only do I get lege graduates that manitarians, who didn’t want mon- to see him pretend to be a fireman, was also under the ey to hold me back. If I’m willing to running around the house, yelling, Gpoverty line. My parents did their work for it, they want to see me suc- “Saved you,” but I also don’t have to best, but money was a constant ceed, she said. She instilled a hope worry about my ability to provide for struggle for our family. in me that college was possible and his future. I know that because of the As a kid I never noticed — we were even went on to lead by example. Not choices I’m making now, he will nev- poor and that was that. But as a high only did she earn a scholarship here at er have to wonder, like I did, whether school student, I just couldn’t help Utah Valley University, she graduated or not he will be able to afford college. but wonder why. I realized that the valedictorian of her class. This scholarship has not only choices we make at every stage in our Luckily for me, the lessons my sis- opened up a world of possibilities lives impact who we can become. ter taught me stuck. After a hyper- for me but also for my son. On be- This realization led me to a fascina- focused high school experience, and half of me and my family, and the tion with numbers. I wanted to un- the immense generosity of donors other 50 Presidential Scholarship derstand how money works. Luck- like you, I was honored to receive the recipients, thank you for creating ily for me, my high school offered an UVU Presidential Scholarship. this opportunity. introductory accounting class, and I This scholarship has allowed me to immediately fell in love. I knew what do more than I could possibly imag- I wanted to study, but how could I ine. Without this scholarship, I know possibly afford a college degree? It that attending college would not have seemed financially unattainable. been an option for me given my fi- To find out how you can help make My older brother decided there nancial status. I’m now a junior in the college possible for UVU students, wasn’t a way — our family simply accounting program and am currently did not have enough money. He was working my dream job as an internal visit donate.supportuvu.org a 4.0 student and dropped out of auditor at UVU. or call the UVU Foundation at high school because he just didn’t Lastly, and even more importantly see a point in finishing if he couldn’t for my family, this scholarship has 801-863-8568. afford a college degree. allowed me to be actively engaged

36 WINTER 2016 | VERBATIM PHOTO BY JAY DROWNS JAY BY PHOTO

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 37 BY LAYTON SHUMWAY ILLUSTRATIONS BY MACY MCCLELLAN

38 WINTER 2016 | SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT

From business to news to American Idol, UVU prepares students to tell stories — and find new ones — using social media

ori Fox didn’t set out to be- TV — I just kind of fell into it,” Fox says. rest of the professional world is still come a public presence for Now working on “American Idol” in struggling to accept: Social media isn’t C some of the biggest shows on its final season, Fox credits her success just for wasting time at the office — it’s television. But when the opportunity to the wide breadth of experience she a key tool in modern communication. arose, she knew exactly what to say. received at UVU. In addition to social After graduating from Utah Valley Uni- media courses, Fox completed four in- PRODUCERS & CONSUMERS versity in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree ternships, all centered on social media in public relations, Fox snagged a tem- work, including becoming the com- UVU students — and many employees porary position as a production assis- munication department’s first interna- — are familiar with the personal uses of tant for “American Idol.” From there, tional intern. social media. But they may not realize she landed script coordinating and so- “My internships at UVU and else- the effect this new technology has had cial media positions on several other where had the biggest impact on on society, says UVU communications programs, including “Dancing with the my life,” she says. “They filled my professor David Morin. Stars,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and the résumé with experience gained out- “In the past, civilizations used story- “Primetime Emmy Awards.” side the classroom.” telling as both producers and consum- “I never thought about getting into Fox has learned what much of the ers,” Morin says. “People would tell a

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 39 story, add some components, and retell nication can help people learn informa- ers hear bits and pieces of different it in the oral tradition. With the advent tion in new ways. conversations as they walk across the of print media, most people became “Social media is the first communi- room. “That seems trivial until you consumers, reading what the produc- cation technology that amplifies our consider the scale,” he says. “This is a ers on high created for them. I think ability to listen,” Pedersen says. “If I global party. Everyone is invited, and social media is driving us to revert own a radio station or a newspaper, my everyone is talking and listening at the back to that oral tradition of thou- editorial voice can reach millions, but it same time.” sands of years ago.” is essentially a one-way conversation; I Morin points to newer technologies can’t really use that platform to listen BEING HUMAN such as camera phones, free photo and in any meaningful way. I think social video editing software, and platforms media is teaching big companies how With so many people talking, students such as YouTube and Instagram as ex- important it is to listen.” need to learn how to separate the im- amples of how average people become Fox has experienced this principle portant information from the chatter. both content producers and consum- firsthand in her work in television, Morin says that’s why UVU is continu- ers, sometimes simultaneously. representing shows that regularly draw ing to add more courses and expand “When you wake up in the morn- millions of viewers. its efforts in social media analytics — ing, what do you automatically do? “You hear straight from your audi- teaching students how to synthesize all Most students say they check Facebook ence immediately and publicly,” Fox those Facebook and Twitter posts into or Twitter or Instagram,” Morin says. says. “It’s so crucial, because the whole useful, actionable data. “We’re inundated by social media now; audience can see what you’re saying “Social media is a powerful medium we have our phones on us at all times. and how long it took you to respond.” for businesses to connect with their That’s affecting us in ways we’re only Pedersen says he thinks of social customers,” says Paige Gardiner, digi- starting to investigate.” media as a crowded party, where us- tal marketing professional in residence in the Woodbury School A GLOBAL PARTY of Business, which offers a digital marketing track Social media isn’t just for telling peo- as part of its marketing ple what you had for breakfast though. "Social media is a global party. program. “Businesses UVU Review adviser Vegor Pedersen, can test innovative who has also taught classes on social Everyone is invited, and everyone new products, listen media, says this new form of commu- is talking and listening at the to customer feedback, same time.”

— UVU Review adviser Vegor Pedersen

40 generate leads, and sell to specific accounts to their youngest employees, Ignoring it, Morin tells his students, target audiences.” who suddenly have to act as spokes- could mean the difference between Dealing with hard numbers isn’t any- people for the entire company online. losing a job to another candidate or thing to scoff at, Morin says. “Large “That’s why I think having classes to missing out on opportunities for ad- organizations spend millions of dol- learn what good content is and what vancement. And that goes for teachers lars for social media campaigns to you should and shouldn’t say are worth and professionals as well, he says. reach these key stakeholders. You it,” Morin says. Many UVU instructors, even those can target your content and see the “I ask my students to take social who don’t teach communication or effects immediately.” media seriously, treat it like an art marketing, are following Morin’s ad- Of course, that doesn’t mean those ef- form, an avenue for self-expression,” vice and integrating social media into fects will always be positive. Morin says Pedersen agrees. “And never auto- their teaching methods and class- he prepares a whole lecture every semes- mate things. Don’t let a program or es. But more importantly, Pedersen ter where students study social media an algorithm do the engaging. Get in says, teachers should use these new failures. And it’s often the biggest com- there and be a human being, talking tools to motivate students to become panies who make the worst mistakes. and listening to other human beings creators. “There are countless examples of as authentically as possible.” “I do a lecture that compares social people who lose jobs because they take media to graffiti, because I think they the human side of social media to a VIRTUAL GRAFFITI are similar impulses,” Pedersen says. point where it becomes unprofession- “People who don’t understand social al,” Morin says. “I tell my students that To those who think of social media media tend to discount it as a symptom it’s a balancing act. You can be funny at as nothing more than self-absorbed of the current generation’s vanity. But I times, but be aware, you also need to be shouting, Morin points to the way believe that the reason why we update, professional.” his own teaching has improved tweet, and post pictures comes out of That balancing act is one of the big- through its use. a primal need to be understood and re- gest reasons that social media needs to “I tell my students that I respond membered. I hope what we are doing is be studied at the college level, Morin quicker via Twitter than email,” Morin encouraging our students to be typers says. On top of that, companies often says. “Twitter is the new inbox. And I and not just clickers. Don’t just con- turn over responsibility for social media think you have to embrace that instead sume content — create your own and of ignoring it.” put it out there.”

"Twitter is the new inbox. You have to embrace that instead of ignoring it.”

— UVU communications professor David Morin

WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 41 ALUMNI NEWS

75Y EARS STRONG Alumni invited to campus during 2016 to join UVU as it celebrates its 75th anniversary

n 1982, President Wilson March 23 and will be recognized for their feature UVUphoria, a celebration con- W. Sorensen described the service to the institution. The Alumni cert and fireworks display; men’s and rapid development of this Association will also unveil a commis- women’s soccer games; the Alumni institution as a “miracle” sioned UVU historical puzzle by Utah Awards Banquet; the annual Alumni — its transformation into folk artist Eric Dowdle at the banquet. Family Fun Fair; Founders Day events; a majorI public university over the 30 The puzzle will be available for purchase and a former employee reception. years to follow is even more so. And through the Alumni Association for Watch for more details in the Spring now in 2016, Utah Valley University $19.41, in honor of UVU’s founding year. 2016 issue of UVU Magazine. will celebrate its 75th anniversary A history book has also been writ- On Nov. 18, renowned local artist and as it remembers the past and looks ten by adjunct history professor Sondra UVU alumus Tom Holdman will unveil to the future. Jones and will be available for purchase “The .” Rendered As part of the yearlong celebra- this spring, also for $19.41. in stained glass, the work artistically tion, UVU is hosting several marquee UVU will hold its 75th Commence- depicts thousands of years of the human events. “The 75th anniversary is the ment on April 28 at 6:30 p.m. in the quest for intellectual advancement and perfect time for alumni everywhere UCCU Center. progress. Spanning 200 feet in length to come see how UVU has grown and A commemorative issue of UVU Mag- and more than nine feet in height, evolved into the largest university in azine will be sent to all alumni in August. the piece will include more than 90 Utah,” says Jeri Allphin, senior director “In preparation for that edition, we ask intricately designed and handcrafted of alumni relations and annual giving. alumni to submit their favorite memo- panes of glass. The work of art will “There will be celebrations and events ries from their time at the institution,” be installed in the front windows of all year, with something for everyone.” says Melinda Colton, editor-in-chief. the entrance to the UVU Library. The University’s 75th anniversary “We have successful alumni all over the launches with President Matthew S. country and are anxious to share their Holland’s State of the University address stories of reflection.” Submit memories on Jan. 26 at 2 p.m. in the Science Build- to [email protected]. Submissions should For more information, ing auditorium. Immediately follow- be no longer than 200 words and are due ing his address, there will be a kickoff April 1. visit uvu.edu/75th. celebration for employees. Alumni are invited to return to cam- Former presidents have been invited pus during Homecoming 2016 in mid- to the annual Appreciation Banquet on September. Homecoming Week will

42 WINTER 2016 | ALUMNI NEWS We have successful alumni all over the country and are anxious to share their stories of reflection. “ — Melinda Colton ” WINTER 2016 | UVU MAGAZINE 4343 ALUMNI NEWS NEW ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS

KARA NORTH EMILY GAPPMAYER ROWLEY EZEQUIEL GUZMAN

Kara North graduated in 2007 with a bache- Emily Gappmayer Rowley graduated with After earning a bachelor’s degree in hos- lor’s degree in business management. While honors from UVU in 2004 with a bachelor’s pitality management from Utah Valley attending UVU, she participated in the sym- degree in behavioral science. Born and raised University in 2000, Ezequiel Guzman was phony and chamber orchestras and per- in Utah, she has stayed connected with the recruited by Marriott International, Inc., formed as a featured violinist. She went on to community as a mortgage lender with First to complete its Management Training Pro- earn her juris doctor from the S. J. Quinney Col- Colony Mortgage. She has played an integral gram. In the ensuing years, Guzman worked lege of Law at the . Upon role in the growth and success of the com- at multiple locations in the various Mar- graduating, North practiced with a large pany and continues to work hard to serve riott brands. He earned numerous awards, insurance defense firm in Las Vegas; in 2011, the members of this community. Rowley including Opening Hotel of the Year and she returned to Utah and currently practices has a love for learning and looks forward Sales General Manager of the Year. Dur- at Fillmore Spencer, LLC, in Provo. As Miss to sharing her passion and experience ing his career with Marriott, Guzman has Orem 2003, North also organized “Read with while serving on the UVU Alumni Board. directed service efforts with departments a Queen and a Wolverine,” which featured and customers around the world, including UVU athletes and Willy the Wolverine. For the complete restructure of the service her service, she was given the Presidential operations of Marriott Vacations World- Student Community Service Award from wide, Latin Division. He is currently the President George W. Bush. general manager of the Courtyard by Marriott in Ogden, Utah.

ALUMNI, COME CELEBRATE OUR 75TH WITH US

UVU ALUMNI RELATIONS STAFF FROM LEFT: MATTHEW BRYSON, TESS RICE, BRITTAN PLANTE, KEVIN WALKENHORST, JERI ALLPHIN, JUSTIN FERRELL, AMIE HUNTSMAN, BRIGHTON BROOKSBY, AND STACY SMITHER.

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ISAAC HALASIMA

ISAAC HALASIMA. Independent film director, writer and editor. “What drew me to UVU was how the school was embracing evolving technology in TV and Film. I wanted I am UVU to be surrounded by instructors and fellow students that would look beyond ‘the way it’s done,’ because a new way of doing things was happening every day.

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