In the News
Miss Rodeo America, Weber State student Olivia Favero thrives as nation’s top Western ambassador
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Weber State University student Olivia Favero is representing the Western lifestyle on a national stage as Miss Rodeo America 2026, traveling across the country to promote the heritage of ranching, agriculture, and the sport of rodeo while serving as the official ambassador for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. Raised on her family's farm in Taylor, Utah, Favero has balanced her passion for rodeo with her education, earning two associate degrees at Weber State and working toward a bachelor's degree in communication. Throughout her yearlong reign, she has applied the communication, social media, and leadership skills she developed at Weber State while connecting with communities nationwide, reaffirming her plans to pursue a career in public relations after graduation. Supported by more than $23,500 in scholarships, Favero plans to return to Weber State to complete her degree, demonstrating how the university empowers students to turn their passions into meaningful careers while making an impact far beyond campus.
Weber State’s Venture Course in the Humanities helps student connect to the community through art
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Weber State University student Tawni Jae Sherlock discovered renewed confidence in her artistic journey through the university’s free Venture Course in the Humanities, leading to her artwork being selected for display on public transit buses as part of a partnership with Ogden Contemporary Arts. A Pacific Islander, Army veteran, and multidisciplinary artist, Sherlock enrolled in the evening humanities program while returning to college, where faculty mentorship and hands-on creative experiences helped her reconnect with her passion for art and envision a new career centered on healing and community engagement. Seeing her work displayed throughout Ogden reinforced her belief in the power of creativity to inspire change, both personally and professionally, as she continues exploring ways to combine art, education, and therapeutic practice. Through stories like Sherlock’s, the Venture Course empowers learners from all backgrounds to rediscover their potential, build meaningful community connections, and pursue new educational and career opportunities.
WSU brings interactive arts, science activities to Ogden parks this summer
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Weber State University’s Arts in the Parks and Science in the Parks programs are returning to Ogden this summer, offering free hands-on arts and science activities for children at three local parks throughout June. Led by faculty, staff, and student volunteers, the outreach programs coincide with the Ogden School District’s free summer lunch program and provide engaging experiences in visual arts, music, dance, theater, storytelling, and STEM through interactive daily themes. Arts in the Parks encourages creativity through projects families can continue at home, while Science in the Parks introduces children to scientific exploration through playful, curiosity-driven activities that challenge traditional ideas of STEM learning. By bringing arts and science directly into neighborhood parks, Weber State continues to inspire lifelong learning, strengthen community connections, and create meaningful educational experiences for children and families.
Why there's a 9-foot-tall piano sitting outside of Abravanel Hall
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Weber State University faculty member and acclaimed sculptor Jason Manley has unveiled a monumental interactive piano sculpture in downtown Salt Lake City, celebrating music and creativity ahead of the 2026 Gina Bachauer International Piano Competition. Manley, a professor of sculpture in Weber State’s Department of Visual Art & Design, was commissioned to create the 9-foot-tall, 13-foot-wide installation from the parts of five reclaimed pianos, inviting visitors to both experience and play the artwork outside Abravanel Hall throughout the summer. Known for his large-scale public art and sculptures across the region, Manley designed the piece to visually express the rhythm, emotion, and intricate mechanics behind music. Through this public installation, Manley is helping bring art and music into everyday community spaces while inspiring creativity, curiosity, and artistic engagement for visitors of all ages.
Sunni Wilkinson named Ogden City’s new Poet Laureate
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Award-winning poet and Weber State University faculty member Sunni Brown Wilkinson has been named Ogden’s new Poet Laureate, where she will serve as an ambassador for the literary arts throughout the community over the next two years. Wilkinson, a creative writing professor in Weber State’s Department of English, was selected by the Ogden City Arts Advisory Committee to present poetry, make public appearances, and expand literary arts opportunities for students and residents. An accomplished poet, essayist, and author of three poetry collections, including the award-winning Rodeo, Wilkinson also co-directs Ogden’s Railtown Reading Series, connecting readers with acclaimed writers from across the West. Through her new role as Poet Laureate, Wilkinson will help strengthen Ogden’s vibrant arts community while continuing to inspire students and foster meaningful connections through poetry, storytelling, and creative expression.
Early summer roundup at Utah Museum of Contemporary Art: Ariel C. Wilson and Matt Kowal: from where the sun is, to wherever you are; Out Loud: 10th anniversary, 2026 Gala Art Auction
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An immersive contemporary art installation at the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art is bringing together the creative work of Weber State faculty members Ariel Wilson and Carey Campbell to explore themes of time, connection, and the natural world. Wilson, a visiting assistant professor of art, partnered with artist Matt Kowal to create from where the sun is, to wherever you are, an exhibition that weaves together live imagery from webcams spanning 24 time zones. Campbell, a professor of music, created the sound design with contributions from Weber State students and staff whose voices are incorporated throughout the experience. Together, the project highlights the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, blending visual art, music, and community participation to explore human connection across distance and place. Through their work, Wilson and Campbell continue creating opportunities for students to engage in innovative creative projects while contributing to Utah’s contemporary arts community.
Graduating WSU film studies student scripts future inspired by faith, family
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Weber State University student Isaiah Somers is graduating with a degree in film studies, guided by a lifelong passion for storytelling and a belief that his journey is just beginning. After returning to Ogden to complete his degree following a competitive basketball career and significant injuries, he found new opportunities through scholarships, hands-on work with Studio 76, and collaboration on student film projects while developing his own scripts. Somers’ work often draws from his faith, family, and personal experiences, shaping stories that reflect both humor and meaning. Faculty and family members note the way his resilience and creative voice continue to grow, influencing those around him and strengthening his sense of purpose. After graduation, Somers plans to pursue work in film production while remaining open to future opportunities in basketball, continuing to build a path that blends creativity, discipline, and personal growth.
For this graduating student, a Weber State degree was the ‘best use’ of her time
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Weber State University student Celecia Peterson balances family, career, and education while pursuing a degree in organizational communication, guided by a focus on making the most of her time and creating meaningful impact. Through her studies and professional experience in real estate, she has continued to grow while modeling perseverance and the value of education for her children. Peterson’s commitment to service extends globally, as she volunteered in Ghana, providing supplies and support to children in need while engaging in culturally respectful humanitarian work. Her family and professors highlight the broader influence of her efforts, from shifting conversations at home to inspiring others through her example. After graduation, Peterson plans to stay connected to the university and expand her volunteer work, continuing to invest in both her community and personal growth.
Students showcase smarts in 2026 annual Spanish Spelling Bee
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Weber State University’s 2026 Spanish Spelling Bee and Language Talent Competition promotes bilingual education, literacy, and cultural connection among fourth- through eighth-grade students. Through spelling rounds and role-play activities, participants build language skills while gaining confidence and real-world communication experience. Students, parents, and educators highlight the importance of maintaining Spanish and celebrating diverse cultural backgrounds. Organizers hope to sustain the program’s impact by encouraging students to remain engaged and eventually return as mentors or judges, continuing a tradition that supports language learning and cultural pride.