For nearly eight years as president of Utah Valley University, I have had the privilege of interacting with thousands of students. Many have shared with me how they came to UVU, why they stayed, and how UVU has made what was once a mere possibility a sure reality. Stories of student resilience, often about balancing work, hardships, family responsibilities, and school, were the most meaningful part of my service. Our students have anchored me in meaning, above and beyond a “job.” I know they have also inspired you and motivated your support for EverGREEN, UVU’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign. Meaning, purpose, and inspiration have led us successfully to raise more than $250 million! Thank you!
EverGREEN was never only about fundraising. It was about telling the story of our students and their potential. Each gift reflected the belief that a first generation student can complete a degree; that strong learning environments matter; and that accessible, exceptional, community engaged education strengthens Utah’s families, workforce, and communities.
I sincerely thank each of you. Your generous sacrifices have translated into stories of persistence and success in classrooms, laboratories, gathering spaces, and daily student life. New and renovated facilities support learning and collaboration. Scholarships open doors year after year. And funded programs ensure that students gain the skills and experience to succeed. Whether you supported a building, scholarship, college, or specific initiative, you are part of UVU’s remarkable transformation.
EverGREEN may have concluded, but our commitment to educate every student for success in work and life continues. Your support ensures that every student, regardless of background, has access to an education that will make human beings flourish. I invite you to stay engaged, keep sharing the UVU story, and continue investing in our students.
I end with the words of the poet Kahlil Gibran:
And there are those who give and know not pain in giving, nor do they seek joy, nor give with mindfulness of virtue;
They give as in yonder valley the myrtle breathes its fragrance into space.
Through the hands of such as these God speaks, and from behind their eyes He smiles upon the earth.
Friends, we have only just begun. Thank you for giving. Thank you for loving our students. Thank you for letting God smile upon this earth!
With gratitude,

Astrid S. Tuminez, Ph.D.
President, Utah Valley University
