UVU's Engineering Building: A Symbol of Transformation and Giving Back
Utah Valley University (UVU) recently unveiled its newest building, the Scott M. Smith College of Engineering & Technology Building, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This event celebrated the hard work and dedication of those who contributed to its creation, emphasizing the importance of using knowledge for the betterment of society.
The building, located in the southeast corner of the Orem campus, spans 197,000 square feet and will accommodate over 20% of the university's student population. It features 14 classrooms, 116 offices, and various labs for hands-on learning experiences.
The ceremony was attended by UVU President Astrid Tuminez, who addressed the crowd, as well as Scott and Karen Smith, the generous donors who contributed $25 million to kickstart construction. The Smiths shared their belief in the importance of giving back to the next generation, with Karen Smith emphasizing the responsibility that comes with talent, knowledge, and resources.
In her speech, Karen Smith encouraged students and graduates to lead meaningful lives and actively contribute to their communities. She quoted, 'Talent, knowledge, and resources come with a responsibility to use them for good, to benefit others and to be accountable for them.'
Scott Smith, the co-founder of Qualtrics, focused on the theme of gratitude. He drew a parallel between engineering students and the story of the Ugly Duckling, suggesting that they must undergo a transformative journey to become swans. He invited the audience to reflect on the contributions of those who came before them, asking, 'What decisions did they make that allow you to be here today?'
President Tuminez also touched on the concept of gratitude, sharing how it has been her guiding light throughout her time at UVU. She highlighted the importance of vision, stating that it surpasses knowledge, networks, and financial resources. Tuminez expressed frustration with the phrase 'just UVU,' emphasizing that the university is a place of inspiration and innovation.
The building, according to Tuminez, is a testament to UVU's vision for the future. She stated, 'These wonderful buildings we have built are structures so that everybody can be inspired, and their imaginations sparked by what they can create and what they can become.'
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant milestone for UVU, symbolizing the power of collaboration, gratitude, and the potential for transformation within the engineering field.
