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Weber State recognized as national leader in sustainability

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OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University is being recognized for its success in proactive efforts to become carbon neutral by 2040, a decade ahead of its original goal. 

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities selected WSU to receive the 2023 AASCU Excellence & Innovation Award for Sustainability and Sustainable Development. 

The university earned the honor specifically for its 5-point Carbon Neutrality Strategy initiative, selected by the awards committee for its outstanding results and potential to serve as a model for other institutions.

“We’re extremely proud of this achievement,” said Brad Mortensen, WSU president. “We’re 10 years ahead of schedule in reaching our carbon neutral goal, but we’re even more excited that our model is catching the eye of other institutions across the country who take sustainability seriously and are looking to replicate our success here in Utah.” 

In 2007, Weber State formalized its dedication to sustainability by signing the American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, aiming to eliminate emissions and become carbon neutral by 2050, now moved to 2040. 

As of last year, Weber has cut electricity consumption by 35%, natural gas consumption by 43% and total greenhouse gas emissions by 42%, saving over $21 million. By 2038, WSU anticipates having converted every building to all-electric systems.

WSU has also incorporated sustainability across its curriculum, with key faculty and staff sharing the knowledge and skills students need to contribute to sustainable communities and providing opportunities to learn more, even outside the classroom. 

Weber also works with community partners to boost sustainable practices, helping residents reduce their emissions and carbon footprints by utilizing the same strategies implemented on WSU campuses. The university also hosts the Intermountain Sustainability Summit, and co-hosts Utah Climate Action Week and Solve Climate by 2030 events each year.

“Our sustainability work has garnered a lot of attention because we’ve significantly cut our greenhouse gas emissions, saved millions, and we have a detailed strategy for transitioning our campuses to carbon neutral by 2040,” said Jennifer Bodine, WSU sustainability manager. “We all win when we share best practices so we’re thrilled to get the word out and see more people follow suit.”

AASCU will formally recognize WSU’s achievements at a ceremony this November. Last month, Mortensen joined Justin Owen, WSU energy manager, and Jacob Cain, operations director, to present Weber State’s key successes at AASCU’s Sustainability Solutions Symposium in Washington, D.C.Author:

Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.eduContact:

Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu

The annual Lindquist Family Symphony Pops Concert and Fireworks will light up the skies above Weber State University on July 16 from 9–11 p.m.

Now in its 44th year, the free community celebration was initiated by John A. and Telitha E. Lindquist in 1978. Today, John E. Lindquist, president of Lindquist Mortuaries and Cemeteries in Ogden, proudly continues the tradition. 

“The Lindquist Family Symphony Pops Concert and Fireworks has become a hallmark of summer in northern Utah,” said WSU President Brad Mortensen. “Every year, we are grateful to the Lindquist family for sponsoring this beloved event that brings our community together on WSU’s beautiful Ogden campus.”


The 43rd annual Lindquist Family Symphony Pops and Fireworks show took place at Weber State University on July 17, 2022.

The New American Philharmonic will provide a 60-minute concert beginning at 9 p.m. at the Ada Lindquist Plaza at the heart of campus. The performance will include Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with a battery of 16 cannons provided by the Cannoneers of the Wasatch. 

Around 10 p.m., thousands of attendees will enjoy one of the largest fireworks displays in Utah, set to the music of the live symphony.

Several local food trucks will also be on hand to sell refreshments. 

On-campus parking and seating is available, but limited. Parking lots A1 and A10 will be closed beginning July 15 at 9 a.m. Guests traveling in motorhomes or larger vehicles are encouraged to park on the east side of campus near Stewart Stadium. Additional parking is also available at the Dee Events Center. 

The roundabouts off Harrison Boulevard and Dixon Drive will be closed to traffic, but vehicles can still access campus from Skyline Drive and Taylor Avenue. The interior part of campus will be closed to vehicles. 

To minimize damage to campus grounds, attendees may not leave blankets, chairs or save spaces before 6 p.m. on July 15. Items placed on the lawn prior to that time will be removed. 

Tarps, stakes and tent pegs are not allowed due to safety concerns and will be removed. No personal fireworks or pets are permitted, with the exception of service animals. Spectators are asked to clean up their area and drive with courtesy and caution following the event.

June 22, 2023

OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University is launching a new program for students pursuing cybersecurity and information technology degrees. The Talent Ready Cybersecurity and IT Infrastructure Apprenticeship program aims to help students upskill and gain technical training.

Students will interact with WSU instructors and business professionals while gaining experience performing real-world cybersecurity and IT responsibilities. The program also allows students to be paid while completing their academic studies.

“There is a great demand for cybersecurity and IT professionals due to the daily increase in cyberattacks worldwide,” said Brian Rague, associate dean for WSU’s College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology. “Graduates in this field are going to have a wide range of job opportunities at various companies.”

Rague said the importance of secure data and smooth operational integrity is rapidly increasing in industries such as healthcare, public utilities, aerospace and defense contracting.

Students who apply and are accepted to the program are then interviewed to determine which tech company best fits them.

“This program is very engaging for our apprentices,” Rague said. “One of the perks is that students receive guidance from professionals already in the field and get on-the-job training.”

The program will last for two years and can fund 65 students. Applications for the program are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

Steps to apply for the apprenticeship opportunity are provided on the Utah Technology Apprenticeship Program website. 

Author:
Addison Rodriguez, Marketing & Communications 
801-626-7948, addisonrodriguez@weber.eduContact:

Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu

OGDEN, Utah – Weber State University and Ogden City are making contemporary art exciting and accessible to the local community with new, video game-inspired sculptures and a video exhibition at the Dumke Arts Plaza.

The plaza will celebrate this new exhibition with a Season Kick-off on April 7 from 6-9 p.m. at 445 25th Street. The exhibition is curated by Weber State’s Mary Elizabeth Dee Shaw Gallery and features art from Utah artists.

An arts-focused community space, the Dumke Arts Plaza represents a special collaboration between WSU and Ogden City. The Shaw Gallery and a committee of Weber State faculty work to develop the plaza’s programming, taking into consideration artistic practices, technologies and ideas of contemporary artists.

“On behalf of Weber State University, and with the support of the Matthew S. Browning Center for Design, it’s been a pleasure for the Shaw Gallery to lead curatorial programming efforts at the Dumke Arts Plaza,” said Lydia Gravis, director of Art Exhibitions & Public Programs at the Shaw Gallery. “We’re pleased to continue a strong tradition of programming world-class art right here in Ogden.”

Created by Michael Whiting over the course of 15 years, the plaza’s newest free-standing exhibition “Level Up” features sculptures inspired by the pixelated art of retro video games. The sculptures are constructed using steel and automotive paint, and are placed throughout multiple levels of the plaza.

The plaza will also host “Cauldron,” a video exhibition curated by Tyrone Davies that includes 10 short works by eight video makers.

Gravis said the Shaw Gallery is excited to showcase the work of talented artists so close to home.

“As we continue to bring visibility to public art in Ogden, we invite the community to join us in celebrating the creative energy of this dynamic outdoor space,” she said.

Matt Choberka, director of Weber State’s Matthew S. Browning Center for Design, said it’s rewarding to be involved in a project that brings the university and community together.

“The city has been very ambitious in the establishment of the Nine Rails Creative District, recognizing that the arts not only enrich and educate, but are also major drivers of economic development and community revitalization,” he said. “The plaza is in the heart of Nine Rails, and so provides a focal point for creativity and community.”

Choberka said the curation committee is working on bringing a “very exciting range of art experiences to the plaza.”

“I’m looking forward to seeing how the plaza and Mike Whiting’s new pieces interact,” he said. “I think much of the public has yet to really see how much the plaza can offer and how much of a true public space it has become.”

The plaza also represents the continuing philanthropy of the Dr. Ezekiel R. and Edna Wattis Dumke Foundation, the main funder of the project. Since its founding, The Dumke Foundation has gifted over $40 million toward the betterment of communities in the Intermountain West.

“Weber State and Ogden City have benefited enormously from the vision and generosity of the Dumke family,” Choberka said.

The Foundation, Ogden City, RAMP, Weber State and Ogden Contemporary Arts, along with community stakeholders, collaborated closely to develop the vision for the Dumke Arts Plaza.

Friday’s kickoff event will feature performances by Tribal Love and Infusion Rock, and is part of Ogden’s monthly First Friday Art Stroll.

More information on the upcoming exhibit is available on the Shaw Gallery website and more on the Dumke Arts Plaza can be found on Ogden City’s website.

Jessica Kokesh

Social Media Editor

OGDEN, Utah – Weber State University will host its 14th annual Intermountain Sustainability Summit at the Ogden campus March 23–24.

This year’s theme, “Connect & Amplify Impact,” aims to highlight the importance of working together as businesses, non-profits, higher education and government sectors collaborate to solve climate challenges.

“The heart of the summit is inviting people to come together and find where we can support healthy thriving communities, economies and ecosystems,” said Bonnie Christiansen, Sustainability Practices and Research Center manager. “The energetic dynamic partnerships that come out of the summit have kept it going for the last 13 years.”

On March 23, the symposium will feature breakout sessions on topics ranging from global climate change to the Inflation Reduction Act. It will also feature two keynote speakers: Nalini Nadkarni, forest ecologist and creator of the Initiative to bring Science Programs to the Incarcerated, and Larry Confino, an independent documentary producer and director.

On March 24, participants can also attend two extra workshops. The first covers securing financing for energy projects and the second covers building electrification and energy savings.

Registration is required for the summit’s workshops and breakout sessions. For a full schedule of events, pricing and registration information, visit the Intermountain Sustainability Summit webpage.

The summit is Utah’s largest sustainability conference and has been held in Ogden since 2010. It has attracted hundreds of sustainability professionals and emerging leaders from business, government, nonprofit and academic sectors.

“The summit is unique because it creates a space where people are learning, building relationships and creating collaborative efforts,” Christiansen said.

Bryan Magaña

Public Relations Director, bryanmagana@weber.edu

Wildcat MicroFund expands with $1.2 million gift from America First Credit Union


OGDEN, Utah – Weber State University’s Wildcat MicroFund has received a $1.2 million gift from America First Credit Union to expand its services throughout Utah.

The Wildcat MicroFund focuses on serving socially and economically disadvantaged communities throughout northern Utah, offering cash grants of up to $3,000 and additional networking opportunities to Weber State students and area entrepreneurs.

The $1.2 million gift will allow the fund to expand its services to Utah communities beyond Weber, Davis, Morgan and Box Elder counties.

“We serve the next generation of entrepreneurs by giving them a platform to test their ideas in a real-world setting and bring brand awareness to their local communities,” said Catherine Holbrook Clark, manager of the Wildcat MicroFund. “The opportunities that this funding provides not only make a profound impact on the entrepreneurs themselves, but on their families and the community as well.”

Since 2018, the microfund has awarded over 300 grants to businesses in a variety of industries, including construction, education, outdoor recreation and tourism.

Ogden resident Tania Rodriguez is a recent recipient of a microfund grant. Rodriguez operates Los Churros del Norte, a traveling food stand that serves up churros, buñuelos and other Mexican food. SHe worked several different jobs before she decided to pursue her true passion – cooking. Learn more about her in the video below.

“My churros are made from scratch, by hand, and they taste just like a small piece of my beautiful country of Mexico,” she said. “Making churros gives me the opportunity to share something special.”

When the truck that transports her churro cart broke down, Rodriguez couldn’t afford to fix or replace it. A friend told her to apply to the microfund, and she received enough money to buy a new truck to keep working at local events.

America First Credit Union “could not be happier to partner with the Wildcat MicroFund,” said Tammy Gallegos, AFCU’s chief strategic engagement officer.

“The Wildcat MicroFund is an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs to launch, build and grow their venture,” she said. “We’re thrilled that through this program we get to be part of the journey for individuals furthering innovation here in Utah.”

“The most fulfilling part of being a small business owner is that I’m a step closer to making my American dream a reality,” she said.



For more information, visit the Wildcat MicroFund website.

Bryan Magaña

Publice Relations Director, bryanmagana@weber.edu

Weber State University Uses 3D Printing for Aerospace Support, Research



OGDEN, Utah, January 26 – Weber State University is using 3D printing to advance its research on composite materials that support northern Utah’s aerospace and defense ecosystem.

The university’s Miller Advanced Research and Solutions Center recently upgraded and installed the Impossible Objects Composite-Based Additive Manufacturing system, or CBAM-2. The machine prints composite materials that can then be used to design parts for a range of high-tech applications.

Located near Hill Air Force Base, Utah, the MARS Centers brings together Weber State students and faculty with industry experts who can apply innovative solutions to real-world problems, especially in the realm of national defense.

“Composite materials are of high interest to the military, and the ability to 3D-print those parts on demand with CBAM gives us an advantage to participate in more projects and recruit the best talent,” said David Ferro, dean of WSU’s College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology.

Ferro said Weber State has a long history with Impossible Objects and believes the new system – a leap in technology from the center’s previous CBAM printer – will be a valuable tool in aerospace research among academia, defense and commercial partners.



“We’ve used this technology to print parts for legacy aircraft, aging jets that need replacement parts or tools that aren’t in production anymore,” said Devin Young, grant writing and research specialist at WSU, who works at the MARS Center. “CBAM makes parts that are lighter and stronger than some of the other methods out there, and it does it faster.”

Young said a recent example of 3D-printed parts via Impossible Objects includes a strap that keeps first-aid kits secure inside aircraft currently flown by the U.S. Air Force.

“We’ve found a range of uses for this technology, from large aerospace companies to small local businesses,” Young said.

Steve Hoover, Impossible Objects CEO, said the CBAM system’s Carbon Fiber PEEK 3D-printed material achieves excellent mechanical properties and is a cutting-edge alternative for aluminum prototyping, tooling, spares and repairs.

“The MARS Center is at the forefront of aerospace and defense research,” Hoover said. “We’re proud that they’ve selected CBAM technology, and have already engaged in several projects that have exciting potential for the Department of Defense, Department of Energy and other industrial partners.”

The MARS Center opened in August 2022 thanks to a $3.5 million donation from the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation. The CBAM 3D Printer from Impossible Objects is among the first advanced manufacturing technologies to be installed and used the new facility.


Contact: Bryan Magaña, byranmagana@weber.edu

Weber State University is renowned for excellent teaching, accessible educational opportunities and its enduring presence in northern Utah. Weber State serves more than 29,000 students form all walks of life and offers 225+ degree programs, including 20 graduate degrees. Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more.

Impossible Objects is a 3D printer and materials company founded with the belief that materials science inventions would enable 3D printing to revolutionize the world in the same ways computers and the internet have revolutionized the way we live, work and play. Impossible Object’s CBAM technology combines the production rate of conventional manufacturing with the design flexibility of 3D printing to create high-performance materials at break-neck speeds. These advanced composite materials are lightweight, strong and ideal for a range of industrial applications. By removing the barriers, we’ve unlocked new opportunities to reshape and rethink manufacturing. Learn more at https://www.impossible-objects.com/

In 2021, China started Good As Gold Insurance as a one-woman business writing all different types of insurance policies customized to the lifestyle of her clients. As a mother of two girls, it was important for China to have a job where she was able to stay home with them as much as possible before the school year started – Good As Gold Insurance allowed her to do just that.

“You’ve got it gal!” is China’s motto – she never gives up on a challenge and she never wants her clients to give up either. “No” is not an option for her and she will go to any lengths to make things work. Many clients have said that China always gets back to them with not only a solution, but several options when they felt stuck. Everyone knows they can count on China!

One customer testimonial from her client, Debbie Williams, reads, “China is so bright and really knows about insurance. She is friendly and very conscientious, making sure you get the right insurance for your personal needs.”

China loves and values Ogden’s rich culture, history, and growing community. She has always been connected to this community and proud of its accomplishments and growth. Ogden was the ideal place for her to start her business and she knew that her business would prosper here. When asked what the biggest win for her business has been, China said, “Good As Gold Insurance has experienced financial every month since it opened in 2021.” China is excited for the future and looks forward to seeing the growth of a business that is her completely her own, not attached to another person!

So, what if, instead of thinking about solving your whole life, you just think about adding additional good things. One at a time. Just let your pile of good things grow.

– Rainbow Rowell

To learn more about China please call or email her at: (801) 940 2693 or goodasgoldinsurance@gmail.com

Weber State alumna, businesswoman and civic leader Kearston Cutrubus was elected as chair of the university’s Board of Trustees at its monthly meeting on Aug. 9.

Karla Bergeson, a retired corporate legal counsel for Citigroup, was elected as vice chair. It’s the first time two women have served together in the leadership positions of the board, which advocates for the university and advises the president on issues such as budget, programs, personnel and planning.

Cutrubus, who was appointed to the Board of Trustees in 2016, and has served as vice chair since 2017, thanked the board for its confidence in her leadership.

“I’m honored and humbled to serve as chair of the Weber State University Board of Trustees,” Cutrubus said. “I look forward to working with an incredible team of trustees, WSU leadership, faculty and staff who endeavor to collaborate with the community, businesses, Hill Air Force Base, and each other, to ensure that the students and their education are the top priority.”

Cutrubus is the customer and community relations director for her family’s multiple automotive dealerships in northern Utah. She serves on various boards and committees for community organizations, including the Top of Utah Military Affairs Executive Committee, YCC (Your Community Connection), the WSU Wildcat Club Executive Board and many others. 

Cutrubus succeeds Nolan Karras, who has led the board as chair since 2016.

Ogden native, Karla Bergeson, was appointed to the board in 2017. She is the former executive vice president and deputy general counsel for Citigroup’s credit card business in the U.S., where she worked for 23 years before retiring. Throughout her career, Bergeson supported higher education in northern Utah. In 2017, she received an honorary degree from Weber State and delivered the commencement address.

Eight of the university’s 10 trustees are appointed by Utah’s governor and approved by the Utah Senate before being sworn in. Appointees are eligible to serve two four-year terms. 

Two new members are expected to join the board officially at its next meeting in September: Keith Titus, president and CEO of MarketStar, an Ogden-based global sales organization, is also a member of Weber State’s National Advisory Council. Brent Bishop is the founder of Greenbacks All-a-Dollar and co-founder of Franklin Covey. 

Other appointed members of the board include Amanda Covington, Louenda Downs, Karen Fairbanks and Donald Salazar.

Weber State student body president, Ben Ferney, and Alumni Association president Curtis Funk, which are not appointed positions, serve one- and two-year terms respectively.

Visit weber.edu/PresidentsOffice/Trustees for more information about the Board of Trustees.

Weber State University’s Center for Community Education (CEC) invites the community to the Food FUNding & Your Future Carnival at 2605 Monroe Blvd., Aug. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m.

This event will give students and their families the opportunity to learn about scholarship and financial aid options available to them at Weber State. Experts will be on hand to help students with applications on the spot. Applicants will need to bring identification and estimated gross annual income information. DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students are encouraged to attend.

“You can also explore educational programs from badges and certificates to degrees to secure a better future in just a few months,” said Niki Tonks, marketing manager for the John B. Goddard School of Business & Economics.

Spanish and English speakers will be on hand to answer questions.

The carnival will have a number of activities to entertain family and friends, including lawn games. Hokulia, a local food vendor, will hand out free shaved ice as long as supplies last. Participants may visit various booths from Weber State organizations and learn about different activities and services.

Along with financial information and assistance, the CEC offers a variety of services including English as a Second Language (ESL) courses for non-native speakers. The Weber-Morgan Health Department is also offering COVID vaccine clinics on Mondays and Wednesdays in August from 1-8 p.m.

This carnival is free and open to the public. For more information, visit fb.me/e/159yqLVPN.

Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.

Contact:

Niki Tonks, Goddard School of Business & Economics marketing manager
801-626-7397 • nikitonks@weber.edu

Author:

Melissa Smith, Marketing & Communications
801-626-6348 • melissasmith9@weber.edu

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