At The U Email

December 22, 2025

Stories, announcements and events for the University of Utah community

LEAD STORY

A transition rooted in legacy: Utah Football moves forward

Utah Football reflects on a legacy of leadership while moving forward with trusted, familiar direction.

READ THE STORY

FEATURED

Featured Stories

Highlights from across campus, selected for this issue.

Utah Volleyball begins a new era

After an extraordinary 36-year tenure leading the Utah Volleyball program, Beth Launiere is retiring.

Mary Beckerle steps down after 20 years as CEO

Beckerle oversaw the extension of access to Huntsman Cancer Institute care, expertise, education and research to communities across the Mountain West.

Jeff Bagley rides into the sunset

Some of the most notable campaigns Bagley created for the university are global institutional campaigns.

Industry veteran expands Wilkes Center’s impact

Fielding Norton brings expertise in climate- and insurance-technology to broaden the Wilkes Center’s role in society, including by supporting the innovation ecosystem and bolstering communities’ resiliency to climate change.

From paper to pixels: A legacy of innovation

For 25 years Kristie Thompson, Office of Sponsored Projects, has helped lead the transition from analog to electronic workflows. Happy retirement to the hero who revolutionized research administration at the U.

University USHE CIO Stephen Hess to retire in early 2026

Hess has worked for the university for over 50 years.

Humans of the U: Paul Richardson

"It created a strong bond between my sister and me that’s unique and indescribable, and it gave me even greater respect for medical professionals who save lives every day."

Humans of the U: Allyson Mower

"I think the main message I want people to know is that the Academic Senate is alive and well and thriving."

Humans of the U: Jonah Knubel

"This whole thing—the kick, the crowd, the attention—still feels like a fever dream. It’s been wild, but mostly just really fun."

Humans of the U: Chelsea Bordon

"I am 34 and just graduating with my bachelor’s degree. I’ve lived a lot of life. I’ve had a lot of careers."

TO KNOW

Announcements

Fuel services on campus for January

During the time in which fuel is not available on campus, vehicles must be filled up off-campus.

2026 Presidential Societal Impact Scholar Award nominations closing Dec. 31

The Presidential Societal Impact Scholars' influence reaches people, organizations and public conversations in meaningful, measurable ways.

If you'd like to submit an article or event for consideration in the @theU Newsletter, please send an email to ThisWeek@utah.edu.

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