A word from Vice President Lori McDonald: Dec 2025

Dear Student Affairs Staff,

It’s hard to believe we’ve already reached the end of Fall 2025! As I look back and reflect on this past year, I’m reminded of the accomplishments we’ve celebrated, the challenges we’ve navigated, and the lessons we’ve learned. None of this would have been possible without each and every one of our Student Affairs staff. 

While the whole year has been full of great work, I’m especially excited to share a few standout accomplishments from the past month. 

The Veterans Support Center, in partnership with the university’s Veterans Day Committee, the Hinckley Institute of Politics, and Student Veterans at the U, hosted Veterans Week, a series of campus events focused on honoring, supporting, and engaging our student veterans. The week included the 28th Annual Veterans Day Commemoration, where twelve Utah veterans and the Student Veteran of the Year were recognized. 

Additionally, ASUU partnered with Woodward Park City to host Rail Jam, a winter sports-themed event that brought the energy of Utah’s mountain slopes straight to the Union Lawn, transforming it into a temporary snow park. The event drew more than 3,000 students for a night showcasing 65 student riders and alum/X Games gold medalist Tom Wallisch. 

Another highlight I’m proud to share is the opening of the Wellness Exchange, a new collaboration between the Center for Campus Wellness, the Office of Residence Life, and Housing & Dining Programs. This program provides students with access to non-perishable and instant food items, a thrift store, personal hygiene supplies, and wellness kits. Located in the Peterson Heritage Center, the space also serves as a donation drop-off location and has already received 383 pounds of donated goods! 

These are just a few of the many accomplishments happening across our division, and I know there is so much more to celebrate in every corner of Student Affairs. I want to recognize each and every one of you who contributes to our mission of supporting student well-being and success. As we head into the holiday break, I hope you’re able to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy a well-deserved pause. You’ve earned it! 

Sincerely,  

Lori McDonald