USU Celebrates America 250

Beginning this week, Utah State University will host numerous events throughout the summer and fall to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and highlight the role of higher education as foundational to democracy.

USU will also incorporate events to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the attacks on 9/11 and honor those who lost their lives to protect others.

"At Utah State University, we celebrate America's remarkable achievements while recognizing that our nation's story continues to be written," USU President Brad L. Mortensen said. "As Utah's land-grant university, we are committed to preparing students not only for meaningful careers, but also to be civically minded leaders who contribute to their communities through service, thoughtful dialogue and informed participation. That commitment reflects both our land-grant mission and our responsibility to help shape the next 250 years."

America 250 Events

Flag on the Quad

July 4

Look for the flag mowed into the Quad on the Logan campus by USU’s Landscape Operations and Maintenance.

Country Star Cole Swindell and Pioneer Day Fireworks

7 p.m. July 23 at Maverik Stadium

Join the community to see multi-platinum country superstar Cole Swindell as he brings chart-topping hits to Maverik Stadium, followed by spectacular fireworks provided by Fox Pest Control and the City of Logan.

9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

Sept. 11 at Maverik Stadium

Join USU President Brad Mortensen, USU ROTC and the Veteran’s Resource Office for a 110-story climb commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and honoring the fallen first responders who gave their lives to save others.

Veterans Day Commemoration

11:30 a.m. Sept. 11 in the Taggart Student Center International Lounge

After the USU Veterans Resource Office presents Veterans of the Year awards to faculty and staff, President Brad Mortensen will provide remarks on the 25th anniversary of 9/11 to the USU community in the TSC International Lounge, followed by free lunch for all attendees.

Arrington Mormon History Lecture

7 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Logan Tabernacle

Sam Houston State University’s Benjamin E. Park will present “Declarations of Interdependence: Why the Latter-day Saints Just Can’t Quit the United States. The lecture will explore the complex relationship of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the United States. Park is an associate professor of history and the current president of the Mormon History Association.

Across the Aisle: Utah's Challenges and Opportunities

6 p.m. Oct 12

Utah House of Representative leaders Casey Snider and Angela Romero will model civil debate and how leaders in Utah work together to serve the state. Utah House Majority Leader Casey Snider is a USU alumnus and represents District 5. Utah House Minority Leader Angela Romero is a University of Utah alumnus and represents District 25.

Land Management Conference

Oct. 21 in the Taggart Student Center Ballroom

Utah State University and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management will host a conference on Oct. 21 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act. This conference will bring together top public lands policy leaders to reflect on the past and shape policy for the next 50 years. The conference is free and open to the public. Students are encouraged to participate by submitting research posters for display and discussion.

USU Football’s First Responders & Military Appreciation Game

Nov. 7

Utah State Football will play Fresno State at the Maverik Stadium for its annual salute to service game, honoring all service men, women and veterans.