Old Main Weekend

Members of Utah State University’s Old Main Society gathered on campus for a variety of events and activities Oct. 19 and 20. A highlight was a dinner Friday, Oct. 19, where new members were inducted into the society and the “Spirit of Old Main Award” was presented.


Fifty-one new members joined the Old Main Society this year, and 36 of those were able to attend the induction ceremony and dinner. In all, 300 society members attended the dinner, including members who moved into new donor categories. More than 150 Old Main Society members attended the president’s pre-game reception and upwards of 125 attended the football game.

The Old Main Society was established in 1967 to recognize alumni and friends whose support makes possible the fulfillment of Utah State’s mission. Membership represents the pinnacle of recognition for those who express their belief in the institution through significant philanthropic support.

 

The tradition of an “Old Main Weekend” began last year and enhances the annual Old Main Society dinner, a yearly gathering for those who have made significant gifts to support USU. The weekend includes opportunities for members to see first-hand many examples of the successes at Utah State.

 

The society’s new members met with USU President Stan Albrecht for the swearing in ceremony prior to a reception and dinner for all members. USU friend, former employee and radio personality Craig Hislop served as the evening’s master of ceremonies. David G. Moore, chair of the Utah State University Foundation, welcomed those attending.

 

“These past few months have been an especially exciting time for the university,” Moore said. “Listening as the president launched the comprehensive campaign last March and then watching his incredible leadership as we proceed toward our $200 million goal has been inspiring. The progress we are making because of his ability to deliver the message of Utah State University to our alumni and friends is remarkable.”

 

Following dinner, musical selections were provided by the Aquarelle Student String Quartet and its members Denise Astle, violin; Kristi Geddes, violin; Alexis Hoggard, cello; and Aubrey Rasmussen, viola. The student quartet was joined for a second selection by their mentors and teachers, the Fry Street Quartet, USU’s professional string quartet in residence. Fry Street members include William Fedkenheurer, violin; Rebecca McFaul, violin; Russell Fallstad, viola; and Anne Francis, cello.

 

Cathy Lynn Monson presented a student perspective. A soon-to-be-graduate, she will leave USU with a degree in sociology and minors in psychology and family and human development, plus a certificate in law and society studies.

 

Recipient of 2007’s Spirit of Old Main Award is Vernon M. Buehler, who was honored at the dinner (see related highlight). President Albrecht addressed the crowd following Buehler’s award presentation.

 

“This is a special time for our institution,” Albrecht said. “The superlatives that describe some of the things that are happening across campus reflect an institution that is vibrant, alive and moving forward to fulfill its essential mission.”

 

As examples, Albrecht shared several recent media headlines.

 

“USU Enrollment Largest Ever”

 

“USU-Uintah Basin Campus Record $15 Million Donation”

 

“USU Hires Scientist for USTAR Initiative; Renowned Cancer Researcher to Work for USU”

 

“Sky’s Again the Limit for USU Students; Utah Team Building Tiny Satellite to put in Orbit”

 

“USU get $600K to Improve Food Safety”

 

“New USU Ag Building in the Works”

 

Albrecht also summarized the progress of the capital campaign, noting the success in two areas — buildings and programs — and emphasized a continued focus on enhancing the endowment base.

 

“In building excellence, we will continue to champion such central values as access and opportunity,” Albrecht said. “That has always been the vision of the land grant university. We are proud to stand firmly in support of that vision.”

 

Old Main Society members took advantage of Saturday activities as well, beginning with a continental breakfast at the Manon Caine Russell Kathryn Caine Wanlass Performance Hall. Guests were welcomed by College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences Dean Gary Kiger and comments by Noelle Cockett, vice president of Extension and dean, College of Agriculture. Two lectures were offered. Professor Ronald Munger provided “Lifestyle, Genes and the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease,” and professors Maureen Hearns and Bruce Saperston provided “Music, Mind and Behavior: Music Therapy Application for Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease.” Tours of the impressive Performance Hall and the Ann Preston art installation followed.