Old Main Society

On March 8, 1888, the Utah Territorial Legislature passed a bill establishing a new college to be built in Cache County. A little over a year later, on July 27, 1889, a group of territorial officials gathered to lay the cornerstone for the first building on what would later become the campus of Utah State University, a promising new institution of higher education. It was a momentous occasion in Utah history.

Today, the university’s growth would have astounded the founders. The original building, now called Old Main, has been joined by more than 400 others, including a vast expansion of statewide campuses, exemplifying the land-grant mission. The initial nine-person faculty has grown to more than 900, and the first student body of 139 has swelled to more than 28,000.

The Old Main Society, named for USU’s original and iconic building, was established in 1967 as Utah State University’s premier giving society. Individuals are inducted into the Old Main Society when their cumulative lifetime giving to USU reaches $25,000.  It honors generous donors who have helped create and preserve the university’s legacy of distinction and excellence in research, teaching and service. The support of the Old Main Society embodies the margin of excellence essential to delivering the educational and research opportunities that make USU unique, opportunities for which public funding may not be readily available. These donors have risen to the challenge of the founders through their vision and philanthropic leadership. 

To learn more about donating to USU, please contact a member of USU’s Development Team:  https://www.usu.edu/advancement/contact