USU President Noelle Cockett Thanks USU COVID-19 Volunteers

Utah State University President Noelle E. Cockett recognized the campus community members who were actively involved in the university’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic at the Aggie football game on Nov. 20. The group was brought onto the field at Maverik Stadium during the game and received a coin in recognition of their service.

“These individuals– from all parts of the university– have been deeply engaged in making sure USU is successful and sustainable during the pandemic,” Cockett said.

While all university employees have been hard at work over the last 18 months completing their assignments during very uncertain and changing times, this impressive group of people has been focused directly on USU’s response to COVID and its impact on the health and wellbeing of people. Because of them, the Aggie community has been able to successfully navigate the pandemic, Cockett continued.

USU COVID-19 responders helped across a range of activities– such as administering COVID tests and vaccinations, delivering meals and resources to those in quarantine or isolation, creating platforms for tracking data, developing websites and communications, providing case containment and contact tracing, arranging offices, laboratories, classrooms, events and activities to meet CDC guidelines and developing strategies and protocols as a member of the COVID Action and Safety Committees.

The university has depended heavily on several units to provide special services and resources, including the Department of Nursing and Student Health Services, the Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, Emergency Response, Risk Management, Event Services, Student Affairs, Human Resources, University Marketing and Communications and Facilities.

“Because of the hard work of USU COVID responders, university administrators have been able to make quick decisions and solve immediate issues related to COVID-19 on our campuses and in our centers,” Cockett said.

Cockett personally extended her heartfelt gratitude to every responder - those who were gathered on the field, as well as many others who couldn’t be there – with the presentation of the Aggie Strong Coin.

“USU COVID-19 Responders– without your dedication and service, our university would not be as successful and vibrant as it is today,” Cockett concluded. “Thank you for your selfless service. You truly epitomize what it means to be an Aggie.”