Founders Day & Old Main Society Celebration
Creating Aggie Impact
Utah State University celebrated 137 years of excellence during the annual Founders Day and Old Main Society celebration on Thursday, March 6. The evening honored the generosity of our Old Main Society members as well as three individuals and two couples whose contributions embody the evening’s theme “Creating Aggie Impact.”
156 New Old Main Society Inductees
108 Members Advanced Giving Levels
24 New Heritage Level Inductees (Planned Gifts)
Below are videos of the 2025 honorees:
Old Main Society Awards
The Old Main Society was established in 1967 to recognize those seeking to continue the tradition of excellence at Utah State University by providing generous gifts that enhance funding from the state, research grants and other sources. The event celebrates Old Main Society members, both old and new, whose generosity ensures the future success of USU and the students it serves.Carrie and Jim Madden
Spirit of Old Main Award
Carrie and Jim Madden have exemplified the very essence of the Spirit of Old Main in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Following the devastating loss of their daughter, MacKenzie, while she was a student at Utah State University in 2014, Carrie and Jim responded with extraordinary generosity, resilience and love. The Maddens established the MacKenzie Madden Memorial Endowment just days after their daughter’s death, creating a legacy that reflects MacKenzie’s passion for learning and her commitment to helping others.
James and Heather Bohm
New Generation of Old Main Award
Driven by heartfelt dedication and a generous spirit, James and Heather Bohm embody the essence of Utah State University’s New Generation of Old Main Award. Their extraordinary support of USU Athletics, particularly their leadership in funding the Gymnastics Facility, has left an indelible mark on the university and its student-athletes.
Marion R. Hyde
Emeriti Old Main Award
For more than 34 years, Marion R. Hyde dedicated his life to Utah State University’s Department of Art, inspiring generations of students and faculty alike. As an artist, educator and department head for 12 of those years, Marion’s influence remains evident in the thriving art community he helped build. Beyond his creative contributions, Marion’s legacy is rooted in generosity. He established two endowed scholarships at USU to support aspiring artists, ensuring that future generations would have the opportunity to pursue their passion, just as he did.
Founders Day Awards
Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Service Awards are given on Founders Day to individuals or couples who have made significant contributions to their community, the university or the world at large.
Bibhu Mohapatra
Distinguished Alumni Award
Award-winning fashion designer Bibhu Mohapatra has left an indelible mark on the global fashion landscape. Renowned for dressing luminaries such as Lupita Nyong’o, Zendaya, Viola Davis, Glenn Close and former First Lady Michelle Obama, Bibhu has consistently showcased collections that inspire confidence and empowerment on runways and red carpets across the globe. His work redefines the essence of luxury, blending timeless elegance with a bold celebration of women’s strength and individuality.
Shari Badger
Distinguished Service Award
For more than four decades, Shari Badger has exemplified the spirit of service, leadership and community engagement. As co-founder of Lee’s Marketplace, Shari’s influence extends beyond grocery store aisles — it permeates the communities she serves and strengthens the institutions she supports.