Dear Aggie Parents and Families
Welcome to Utah State University, Home of the Aggies.
Your partnership in your student’s success matters. Thank you for the encouragement you provide as your student begins or continues their journey as an Aggie. This support is a strong foundation for their success. This handbook is a quick guide to the resources and contacts you will need to support them at the right time.
As I begin my service as Utah State’s 18th president, my top priority is to remain student centered and true to our land-grant mission of learning, discovery and engagement. USU is an R1 research university with a statewide mission, and our work starts with keeping students at the heart of all we do: expanding access, strengthening success, and removing barriers wherever they appear.
We remain focused on affordability and value. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the State of Utah, we provided $92 million in scholarships to 4,394 students last year.
This has been a year of meaningful progress across the Aggie community. We broke ground on the new Veterinary Medical Education Building, expanding opportunities and helping address Utah’s veterinarian shortage. We also dedicated the Mehdi Heravi Global Teaching and Learning Center, reinforcing our commitment to global engagement and education that prepares students for a global workforce.
USU’s impact is felt statewide. A Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute study showed USU supported $1.4 billion in Utah GDP and $2.2 billion in economic output in 2023. We are the largest employer in Cache County and the seventh-largest in Utah. USU also continues to welcome more learners across our statewide system, reflecting our established reputation and the trust families like yours place in us.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Undergraduate Research program at USU, one of the oldest and most respected in the country. Undergraduate research is central to who we are. It connects students with faculty mentors, builds career-ready skills, and opens doors to internships and first jobs. USU secured $495 million in sponsored research awards, driving innovation that benefits students and the state.
We are honored to have you as part of our university community, and I am grateful to be joining you in supporting your student as they learn, grow, and achieve their goals at Utah State.
Thank you for being part of the Aggie family!
Go Aggies!
Brad L. Mortensen
President, Utah State University
Table of Contents
A Breakdown of USU's Resources
Student Services
- What is Connections?
- Affordability
- Student Money Management Center
- FERPA
- Campus Recreation
- Aggie Ice Cream & Chocolate Factory
- Student Involvement
- USU ID
- Career Design Center
- Campus Store
- Aggie Print & Post Office
- Campus Map
- Student Support & Community Connection
- USU Credit Union
- Academic Advising
- Exploratory Advising
- Center for Academic Belonging & Learning Excellence
- Disability Resource Center
- Center for Community Engagement
- Veterans Resources Office
- USU Libraries
- Undergraduate Research
- Resident Life and Housing
- Dining Services
- Student Nutrition Access Center (SNAC)
- Student Health & Wellness
- Counseling & Prevention Services (CAPS)
- Suicide Prevention & Wellness Resources
- Public Safety
- Sexual Misconduct
- Academic Calendar
Stay Connected
At Utah State University, we know how important it is to stay informed and involved in your student’s college experience. That’s why we offer a variety of resources designed specifically for parents and families, keeping you updated, empowered, and equipped to support your student every step of the way. From comprehensive tools to a strong community, we’re here to help you navigate this journey with confidence.
Parent & Family Website
Explore tips, informative videos, and more by visiting the USU Parents website for valuable resources to stay connected to USU.
Parent & Family Connection
Stay in the loop! Join Parent & Family Connection to receive customized, timely updates on news, deadlines, and campus resources.
Parent & Family Podcast
Subscribe to the Aggie Parent & Family Podcast on all major platforms for practical advice on supporting your student. You'll get expert insights on topics like campus safety, academic advising, mental health, and more!
Family Matters
No matter what stage of the journey you and your student are on, it’s natural to have questions about college. This handbook provides valuable information, and our Parent & Family representatives are here to help. If you have additional questions, we encourage you to connect with us for personalized support and guidance.
Aggie Parent & Family Wisdom
Conversations for the Road Home
Basics
- What were the 3 most important takeaways for you during orientation?
- How often do you expect to communicate with your student? Via what modes of communication?
Safety
- How safe is Logan compared to where your student currently lives? How do they feel about navigating the safety of a new place?
- What are warning signs that a student’s stress has turned to distress? What steps can you take for their mental safety?
- Who is responsible for paying tuition and other related costs?
- Do you expect your student to get a job while in school? How many hours do you think they should work?
Academics
- What are your expectations for your student’s course of study? How can you help your student decide which program is the best fit for them?
Social Life
- How can you help your student balance academic and extracurricular commitments?
Health & Wellness
- Does your student know their health history? Are they still under your insurance or are they getting their own plan?
Welcome to the Aggie Family
As parents and families of Utah State University students, you’re now part of the Aggie Family—whether you’re alumni, new to USU, or supporting a future Aggie. This handbook highlights how you can engage with our traditions, support your student’s success, and build lifelong connections with USU.
Key Traditions & Campus Connections
Homecoming
Celebrate USU’s iconic traditions that foster school spirit and student retention by attending the Homecoming Parade.
True Aggie Night
Learn how students can participate in this cherished tradition, symbolizing Aggie pride and community (learn more about details and involvement opportunities).
The Luminary
Celebrate your student’s journey as they process to the Quad in a glowing display of community and connection. Experience the spirit of Aggie pride as family members and supporters join in this special tradition.
Alumni Parents & Family Members
If you’re an Aggie alum, share your stories with your student to deepen their connection to USU. Visit the Alumni Welcome Center to reconnect and receive resources for your family. We can also schedule you a Legacy Tour while you are visiting campus that is customized to you and your student.
Your Role in the Aggie Community
The Student Alumni Association (SAA) connects students to USU traditions, creating lifelong bonds with the Aggie community. Students can join SAA events, volunteer for Homecoming, or participate in True Aggie Night. Visit usu.edu/alumni/saa to learn how to get involved and build leadership skills that enhance retention and campus pride.
Scholarship Benefits
Aggie License Plate Program
Support your student’s education by purchasing an Aggie license plate. Proceeds fund scholarships, helping students succeed academically and stay connected to USU.
Alumni-Funded Scholarships
As parents or alumni, your engagement can unlock scholarship opportunities for your student. Contact the Alumni Association for details on how donations and involvement contribute to student success.
Retention Through Support
Scholarships reduce financial stress, allowing students to focus on academics and campus involvement, increasing their likelihood of graduating as proud Aggies.
How Supporters Can Help
- Attend events like Homecoming or Parent and Family Weekend to support your student’s connection to campus.
- Encourage participation in SAA and traditions like True Aggie Night to foster a sense of belonging.
- Donate or advocate for the Aggie License Plate Program to support scholarships and USU’s future. These programs offer additional support for students, focusing on academic and social skill development.
Aggie Alumni Association
alumni@usu.edu
1540 Old Main Hill
Logan, UT 84322
435.797.1320
Parent & Family Weekend
Parent & Family Weekend at Utah State is held during the fall semester. It's a special time for the whole family to come together and celebrate what it means to be an Aggie. With various events happening on and off campus, parents and family members can use this weekend to get better acquainted with Utah State and the Logan community. With your purchase of a ticket, you can expect:
Aggie Football Game
Pre-Game Tailgate
Pictures on the “A”
Various Tours of USU Facilities
Cache Valley Events
Student Orientation & Transition Services
TSC 105 • 435.797.0283
orientation@usu.edu