USU's Luminary Tradition Marks a Decade of Welcoming New Aggies

On August 22, Utah State University (USU) celebrated the 10th annual Luminary event, a cherished tradition that warmly welcomes incoming students to the Aggie family.

 

First-year students gathered at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum, each holding a lantern designed to resemble Old Main's iconic Block A. As they proceeded to the Quad, their white lanterns illuminated the path, symbolizing the beginning of their academic journey. Alongside them, alumni, friends, and family held blue-glowing lanterns, representing the enduring support of the Aggie community.

 

This procession retraces the route students will take during their commencement ceremony, emphasizing the full circle of their educational experience. Participants included transfer and international students, with many having completed the USU Connections course—a program designed to ease the transition into university life. According to USU, 74% of first-year students enroll in this course, with 91% finding it beneficial.

 

The Luminary event wasn't limited to Logan; USU's campuses in Price, Tooele, and Blanding also participated simultaneously, underscoring the university's statewide unity.

 

Among the attendees were Katelyn Crouch and Katelynn Cunningham, transfer students from Snow College, and Alexis Whiten, a first-year student from Payson. The trio met through the Connections course and experienced the Luminary together. "I love school, so it’s fun to be in a new place for sure," Crouch shared. "I had never really heard of the Luminary before, so I’m excited to see what it is. This is a way bigger school than Snow College."

 

The evening commenced with Sierra Graul, assistant director for student success and student orientation and transition services, welcoming the incoming class of 2029. As students simultaneously illuminated their lanterns, the Spectrum transformed into a sea of light, symbolizing the bright futures ahead.

 

Harrison Kleiner, associate vice provost for general education and associate professor of philosophy, addressed the students, expressing his honor in being part of their initial Aggie experience. "I’ve heard so many wonderful stories about these Connections classes, and looking out at this crowd, there’s a lot of really bright futures here in the Spectrum tonight," he remarked.

 

As the sun set behind the Wellsville Mountains, students, guided by peer mentors, made their way to the Quad. Cheered on by the community, they formed the shape of an 'A' while a drone captured the moment. The event concluded with Old Main's 'A' glowing blue, officially welcoming the newest members of the Aggie family.

 

Kleiner left the students with inspiring words: "This is your moment. You’re going to be golden. This commencement tonight will end in four years at your graduation commencement, and that will be a public, viable sign of being transformed. On that day, when Utah State becomes your alma mater, we will celebrate your growth as an educated person."

 

In related community developments, Logan City is considering adjustments to wetland protections to accommodate more housing, reflecting the city's ongoing growth and the need for expanded residential areas. Additionally, the Logan Home Show is scheduled for November 7 and 8, 2025, at the Cache County Event Center, offering residents insights into home improvement trends and services.

 

As USU continues to uphold traditions like the Luminary, the broader Logan community is evolving, balancing growth with the preservation of its unique character.