Founders Day & Old Main Society Celebration
Aggie Impact in Action
Utah State University commemorated the 136th anniversary of its founding, welcomed new Old Main Society members, honored outstanding Aggies, and heard from new USU President Elizabeth Cantwell during the annual Founders Day and Old Main Society Celebration on March 7, 2024.
Event photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/utahstatealumni/albums/72177720315395879/
Media release: https://www.usu.edu/today/story/utah-state-university-celebrates-aggie-impact-in-action
Below are videos of the 2024 honorees:
Old Main Society Awards
The Old Main Society was established in 1967 to recognize those seeking to continue the tradition of excellence at Utah State University by providing generous gifts that enhance funding from the state, research grants and other sources. The event celebrates Old Main Society members, both old and new, whose generosity ensures the future success of USU and the students it serves.
This year’s festivities included a reception welcoming 170 new members into the Old Main Society, joining more than 3,450 fellow Aggies. The university also recognized 129 current members who moved up to new giving levels.
Emeriti Old Main Award 2024: Kathy Bayn
Throughout her four-decade tenure at Utah State University, Kathy Bayn devoted herself to the institution, retiring in 2016. Her impactful contributions, spanning across the university, have left an indelible mark on its academic landscape. This has earned her the Emeriti Old Main award.
Spirit of Old Main Award 2024: Philip and Gemma Hwang
Philip and Gemma Hwang exemplify the core values of Utah State University, demonstrating unwavering dedication to excellence and a commitment to making a positive impact in their respective fields. Their journey together has been nothing short of inspiring, showcasing the power of collaboration and shared values.
New Generation Old Main 2024: Katie and Spencer K. Bailey
Recognizing the importance of giving back, Katie and Spencer K. Bailey imagined, founded and started running Cabins for Cancer, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families who have a loved one experiencing terminal or advanced stage cancers escape from the realities of life and spend a week in a luxury vacation home.
Founders Day Awards
Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Service Awards are given on Founders Day to individuals or couples who have made significant contributions to their community, the university or the world at large.
Distinguished Alumni Award 2024: Chris Stewart
Chris Stewart, a prominent figure in the political arena and a distinguished New York Times best-selling author, stands as a true embodiment of the Aggie spirit, proudly representing Utah State University. His remarkable journey unfolds across a diverse career that spans service as a seasoned United States Air Force pilot and accomplished business executive.
Distinguished Service Award 2024: Jake Anderson
A lawyer by trade, Jake Anderson has devoted a significant portion of his career to safeguarding the rich agricultural heritage of Northern Utah. Serving as a dedicated legal advocate for the Bastian Family Foundation, Jake has displayed unwavering commitment to the preservation of the family’s agricultural heritage in the southern Salt Lake valley.