Year of Transformation Reviewed by President Albrecht at Chamber Luncheon

Utah State University President Stan Albrecht joined members of the Cache Chamber of Commerce April 18 during its monthly meeting.

Following remarks by Chamber President Sandy Emile, President Albrecht was introduced by Bruce Bishop, the Chamber’s 2006 chair. President Albrecht addressed a crowd of 60-plus members.

 

“I often remind my colleagues that the fate of a university cannot be seen differently from the fate of its host community,” Albrecht said. “I am grateful that the Agricultural College was placed in Logan.”

 

Albrecht emphasized that the university and community continue today with a cooperative and supportive relationship. There are many opportunities to work together, he said. Air quality, growth and economic development are a few of the issues that have involved the collaborative efforts of the university and the community.

 

President Albrecht recapped the year for the Chamber members, including the difficult months following the tragic van accident that forever changed USU. “Throughout that difficult time I was never prouder to be an Aggie,” Albrecht said.

 

The year has also been a year of transformation, especially in the physical sense. Much is changing on campus, he said.

 

“The old Merrill Library is gone, but we opened a new Performance Hall,” Albrecht said. “The dedication of the new Merrill-Cazier Library included a keynote speech by Richard Rodriguez, a speech that was among the best I’ve ever heard.”

 

Romney Stadium projects, including work on facilities at the north, will begin next fall following the grid iron season.

 

“This project will allow our great coach, Brent Guy, to be even more effective,” Albrecht said.

 

Work progresses on a Living Learning Complex at the west end of campus. This student residence facility, combined with a parking terrace, will be a highlight for students living on campus.

 

Future plans also include a construction project at the site of the former Merrill Library. This major project is several years away, but will be carefully planned to enhance the eastern edge of the USU campus Quad.

 

Albrecht went on to summarize the recent legislative session, including an overview of the important USTAR initiative and legislative funding. Enrollment, future growth and joining the WAC were discussed, including USU’s place in the “Sweet Sixteen” — the academic “Sweet Sixteen,” that is. USU is ranked in the top 16 universities nationally when it comes to graduation rates.

 

“Our coaches and athletics personnel are doing a great job combining athletic endeavors and academic accomplishments,” Albrecht said.

 

Following his remarks, Albrecht responded to several questions from the crowd.

 

“I have the greatest job anywhere,” he concluded.