College of Ag names Albrecht scholarship
USU President Stan Albrecht received a surprise award Tuesday afternoon after he was invited to attend an award ceremony for the animal, dairy and veterinary science department.
When he arrived to watch, he realized students planned to present a new scholarship. The scholarship, which was arranged in secret by Albrecht’s wife Joyce Albrecht, the College of Agriculture and other anonymous donors will bear his name. He was also given a custom saddle and a stall in the animal stables with his name on it.
Dean Noelle Cockett, of the College of Agriculture, coordinated the event.
“We are here to honor a man of incredible commitment to this university,” Cockett said, “the best leader the university has had in decades, if not in this century — and, as is appropriate for an agricultural college, a man who is wearing cowboy boots with his suit.”
Cockett said Albrecht kept the university moving forward in a time of huge budget cuts. “He has expanded facilities out at the animal science farm despite financial restraints.”
Ken White, department head of ADVS, said the award is more than just a scholarship, it is a recognition of Albrecht’s selflessness, leadership and intelligence.
“He’s been instrumental in keeping this university afloat,” he said. “Albrecht was key in working with the legislature to get funding to create new programs such as the veterinary program. He has consistently expressed concern that students would be unable to attend college in these economically hard times. That’s why we chose a scholarship as a way to honor him.”
Albrecht said he valued nothing more than a scholarship to award hard-working students.
“Every day I walk out and see the new building for the College of Agriculture, and I think of the history and heritage of Utah State University. I hope that everyone who truly desires to go to college will have the opportunity to attend, and I want you all to know that I am here for the students,” he said.
“This university really is a strong passion of his,” Cockett said. “We are certainly a leaner university since the budget cuts, but with Albrecht at our stern I feel confident in our future.”
Cockett said during during the student van crash that took place six years ago, Albrecht demonstrated some of the greatest leadership he had ever seen.
“He loves students, which is why we had to keep the award secret, and told him the award was for students,” Cockett said.
After receiving the award, Albrecht was able to test his new custom saddle. Refusing to use a stool, he mounted a horse from the USU Equestrian Center and lead a group of students and faculty — on foot and on horseback — around the Quad, pausing for a moment in front of the new College of Agriculture.
“I want to thank everyone who came here today to honor president Albrecht,” Cockett said. “And I especially want to thank those who knew ahead of time and did such a marvelous job in keeping the award secret from the President.”
– evan.millsap@aggiemail.usu.edu