The University of Utah celebrated a momentous milestone on its 175th anniversary with a lively celebration held at the A. Ray Olpin Student Union. The event, designed to foster community ties between students, alumni, faculty, and local residents, ran from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., culminating in an impressive drone show at 7:30.
This celebration marked the conclusion of a year-long series of events honoring the university’s rich history and its significant contributions to education, community development, and research in the state of Utah. The university, founded in 1850 as the University of Deseret before adopting its current name, stands as one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the American West.
Ethan Foley, a student governance advisor, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The University of Utah is a great place to work, and we have a lot of fun events like this that bring in the community and students. It’s awesome to have everybody come in and hang out in the Union building.” He emphasized the sense of community on campus and in the greater Salt Lake Valley, highlighting the diversity of individuals who come together at the university.
The Olpin Student Union serves as a vibrant hub for student engagement and activities, making it an ideal location for the anniversary celebration. Foley encouraged students to actively participate in clubs and organizations to enhance their university experience and foster connections.
The university’s legacy over the past century and three-quarters reflects its ongoing mission to educate and uplift the community, and the 175th anniversary serves as a reminder of its enduring impact.