Sweater Swap sets new record
With students lining up for the annual Sweater Swap organized by the USU Traditions Committee, held during Traditions Week, the event saw record participation with over 800 sweaters donated to local charities this year.
This event annually takes place in the TSC Ballroom and allows students to exchange a sweater for a limited-edition USU sweater, this year featuring a new design by Kaylee Shelton, member of the committee. The swap, known for generating excitement across campus, sold out within minutes of ticket release on the Transact Mobile app.
The sweater design process is a key part of the event, with committee members submitting their creations before anonymously voting for a winner. Shelton’s winning design incorporated elements from the university’s Scotsman symbol, making it a standout choice according to Easton Martin, traditions director. The sweaters, produced by Aggie Print & Mail, were distributed in waves, with students eagerly awaiting their chance to claim the latest addition to their winter wardrobe.
“Kaylee had created a design featuring the thistle, rose and sagebrush from the Scotsman,” Martin said. “It was the clear favorite among the committee, so we moved forward with it.”
Beyond providing students with apparel, the event serves a greater purpose by encouraging sustainability and supporting local charitable organizations. This year, the committee partnered with the Christensen Office of Sustainability and Service, or COSAS, to host additional activities, including a clothing swap, a sustainability-focused film screening and a soup-serving station.
Students who participated in the swap were required to donate an old sweater in exchange for the limited-edition design. The donations were then distributed to CAPSA, a nonprofit supporting survivors of domestic violence in Logan, and the Ogden Rescue Mission, which assists individuals experiencing homelessness.
“We had students in our standby line who still donated their sweaters even after they knew we had run out of new sweaters,” Martin said. “Their generosity will be put to good use at CAPSA and the Ogden Rescue Mission.”
The swap has become a mark of Traditions Week, strengthening the sense of community among students while fostering school spirit. The director noted the event not only brings students together but also gives back in meaningful ways.
“This event is so special because the day after, you get to see everyone around campus wearing their new sweater,” Martin said. “It’s a great way to build community on campus and help people make connections.”
Despite logistical challenges, such as finding organizations capable of accepting large-scale clothing donations, the committee worked to ensure the event’s success. The overwhelming demand and enthusiasm surrounding the swap continue to reinforce its significance at USU.