Homecoming Highlights

Utah State University President Stan Albrecht attended a multitude of activities for the university’s 2006 homecoming. And what could be a better conclusion than the Aggies’ exciting 13-12 victory against conference opponent Fresno State. Fireworks outside Romney Stadium hit the night sky as Aggies of all ages celebrated.

President Albrecht and First Lady Joyce Albrecht attended the homecoming banquet where Gerald R. Sherratt was honored as Alumnus of the Year.

Sherratt is the current two-term mayor of Cedar City, Utah. He graduated from USU with a bachelor’s in elementary education and a master’s in educational administration. He was a long-time administrator at Utah State University before leaving to become president of Southern Utah University in Cedar City. (See related story.)

“Gerald Sherratt is a visionary man who is committed to the betterment of the communities he is part of,” said Kellie Schultz Wood, president of USU’s Alumni Association. “His accomplishments during his time at USU and in Cedar City speak volumes about the man he is. He has done many great things, and I know he will continue to do great things throughout his life.”

Also honored during the dinner was Jed Pitcher, the 2006 Grand Marshall for the Homecoming Parade Oct. 7. Pitcher, a USU alum, was joined by his wife, MerLynn.

Pitcher is a Utah native who earned a bachelor’s in business administration from USU. He currently serves as chair of Utah’s Board of Regents with the Utah System of Higher Education. A business and community leader, Pitcher recently retired as the chairman of the board of Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah and as the president and chief operating officer of The Regence Group, the parent company of Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah.

Saturday was the big day for Homecoming 2006 with a parade down Logan’s main street. President Albrecht rode atop the Wells Fargo stagecoach, while Joyce Albrecht remained dry inside.

Prior to the football game, the Albrechts hosted a tailgate party for guests and friends of the university. The game began at 6:05 p.m. and the celebration was in full swing by 9 p.m.