Over 1,500 Utah & Idaho High Schoolers Attend USU's Annual Leadership Conference

LOGAN, Utah — Utah State University’s annual Leadership Conference returned this summer with record-breaking participation.

Over 1,500 student leaders and 200 advisers from nearly 70 high schools across Utah and Idaho — a 9% increase in student attendance compared to last year — gathered for this year’s conference.

Celebrating over a decade of empowering high school students, this year’s conference embraced an Ancient Greece theme encouraging participants to “Find Your Voice.” The two-week event featured immersive workshops, team-building challenges and inspiring speakers, including Kenneth Scott, former University of Utah football player turned motivational speaker, who challenged students to “own their story.”

“Our goal is to provide students with tools to become leaders and role models in their schools and communities,” said Joe Graul, USU director of conferences & community outreach. “This year’s growth speaks volumes about the value schools see in this experience.”

Students attended sessions on leadership topics such as fundraising strategies, creating a fearless student section and planning events. They also had dedicated time to collaborate with peers and start planning for their upcoming school year.

A highlight of the week was the Titan Challenge, a teambuilding event where students tackled everything from Ancient Greece trivia to a Coliseum Relay Race across campus. The conference wrapped up each night with the ever-popular Spirit Bowl and Dance Battle, giving schools a chance to show their pride and unity.

This year also marked growth in current USU student involvement. Over 100 USU ambassadors helped facilitate the event, leading workshops, mentoring students and supporting every part of the conference.

“Our ambassadors aren’t just guides — they’re role models,” said Katie Jo North, vice president for strategic enrollment management. “They made a real impact on over 1,500 young leaders this year, and in turn, grew as leaders themselves.”

For more information about the USU Leadership Conference, visit usu.edu/admissions/events/leadership.