Uintah Basin Ute Tribe Students Visit USU in Logan

Utah State University’s Logan campus hosted Ute Tribe students from Uintah, Union and Uintah River high schools to give them a better understanding of the college experience and see the future opportunities available to them. The students arrived in Logan Thursday, Sept. 13, and returned to the Uintah Basin the following day.  

After checking in at the University Inn and receiving game-day shirts, the students tailgated with USU Provost Frank Galey and Vice President of Regional Campuses David Woolstenhulme for the USU versus Tennessee Tech football game. 

“It was a lot of fun to spend time with them and Provost Galey in such a low-key setting,” said Woolstenhulme. “USU has a great academic reputation, but also a very rich campus life, and these students were able to live it for two days. This experience gave these kids a first-hand look at what opportunities await them.”

The next morning the students had breakfast with President Noelle Cockett where she spoke to the students about her personal path in higher education and encouraged students to take advantage of every opportunity. 

“Life as an Aggie is different for everyone, and these students were able to see what USU could do for them,” said Cockett. “USU is designed for all students to experience learning on a personal level, setting them up for current and future success.”

Following breakfast, the students were greeted at the animal science farm by ambassadors from the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences. They discussed careers in agriculture, science, natural resources, aviation, and teaching, and then toured the barns to learn about how goats, sheep, cows, pigs, and horses are helping USU solve problems in healthcare, military, and providing enough food for the world’s growing population. The students spent the rest of the day at USU’s rope course, developing leadership and team-building skills before returning to the Uintah Basin.

“I’ve been here three different times and the experience has been way different. The ambassadors are the best. They are so excited and fun, and I can feel their love for Utah State University,” Artemia Renwick from Union High School explained.  “It makes me excited to earn a degree in the arts or sciences.” 

As one of the nation’s oldest undergraduate research institutions, the students learned about the of hands-on learning opportunities available at USU. As Utah’s land-grant university, students have access to these experiences throughout the state. 

“USU’s statewide system gives students options, whether it be going to Logan for a traditional college experience or staying in the Uintah Basin and retaining support from their family unit,” said Cameron Cuch, USU-Uintah Basin’s associate director and director of students. “This was a great opportunity for our local students to see what’s available.” 

Contact: Dana Rhoades, 435-722-1788