USU Recognized for Veterans Outreach, Service

LOGAN — Utah State University has once again been recognized by Operation Hat Trick for its service and outreach to veterans. USU ranked third among all universities for its Operation Hat Trick brand awareness efforts.

The university received a $15,000 prize donation, which will be awarded to the Rocky Mountain Veterans Center.

USU was one of seven finalists chosen based on efforts to fully integrate Operation Hat Trick on and off their campuses through a presence in their bookstores and retail outlets; promoting veterans’ causes through their social media properties and advertising campaigns; and generating additional revenue that will be used to support the recovery of wounded service members and veterans.

“We are incredibly proud of how the Aggie community has embraced the Operation Hat Trick brand,” said Heidi Adams, USU director of licensing and brand activation. “This recognition reflects a massive team effort across our campus and retail partners. It’s an honor to use the power of the USU brand to generate meaningful support for the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

Utah State has been recognized by Operation Hat Trick every year since 2018. This most recent donation brings USU’s total contributions to the Rock Mountain Veterans Center to $78,000 over that span.

About Operation Hat Trick

Founded by Dot Sheehan in 2007, Operation Hat Trick generates awareness, support and funding for the recovery of America’s wounded service members and veterans. The 501(c)(3) has been recognized by GuideStar eight years in a row as a Platinum seal of transparency organization for its responsible stewardship.

Dedicated to Nate Hardy and Mike Koch, two Navy SEALs who were killed in Iraq in 2008 and are buried side by side at Arlington National Cemetery, Operation Hat Trick never forgets their sacrifice.

Operation Hat Trick’s innovative operational business model is clearly differentiated from other veteran-focused nonprofits. Operation Hat Trick pioneered the first national philanthropic, co-branded, cause marketing retail apparel licensing program in America. Instead of relying on donations, Operation Hat Trick raises money by selling distinctive headwear and apparel, receiving a royalty from every product purchase. More than 500 American universities and colleges display their logos with Operation Hat Trick’s on co-branded merchandise. Many businesses, NHL, NBA and MiLB teams are also active supporters.

Support and learn more about Operation Hat Trick by visiting operationhattrick.org.