2002-2011
Waldo Wildcat and students riding in the procession for the Davis Campus Torch Run, 2003
Major changes and events helped to shape student life during this decade. Starting in the winter of 2002, campus closed for a two week “Olympic Break.” This break was established in order to allow the Salt Lake Organizing Committee to utilize campus facilities during the games. Students were required to move out of their on-campus housing. Many individuals in the surrounding community took in these students during the break; others went home. Emptying the dorms allowed them to be used as temporary housing for members of the media and other officials visiting during the games.
2002 also saw the inauguration of F. Ann Millner, Weber State’s first female president, who oversaw continued expansion of the campus throughout the decade. During her tenure, many buildings on campus were renovated or newly constructed including Elizabeth Hall and the Shepherd Union building. New campus locations also opened in 2003 in Roy and Morgan. But the largest expansion was the completion of the first building on the new Davis Campus in Layton, UT. This allowed flexibility for instructors and students to be able to use either campus location. To celebrate the opening of this new campus, a torch run was held in 2003. The run started at the Stewart Bell Tower on the Ogden Campus and ended at the new D2 building at the Davis Campus.
Marching band members preparing to perform during a game, 2011
People set up booths around the Stewart Bell Tower Plaza for the 1st Annual Block Party, 2006
Graduation Medal first given out to graduates in 2008 and still given out today.
In the Fall of 2005, Block Party welcomed students back to campus and kicked off the new school year. This event involved booths sponsored by various departments, clubs, and organizations on campus, as well as community sponsors. Students would be able to learn about all the various opportunities available to them on campus and get to know their fellow campus community members. This event has become a staple of student life at Weber State and continues to be a highlight for many students.
Students enjoy time on the computer during the WSU Nugal Lan party in the Lair, 2002
Many other traditions also started during this decade. In 2003, WSU instituted Weber Wear Friday to encourage students to show their school spirit. The Stress Relief Lab opened for faculty, staff, and students to use in 2007. Foam Bash became a Fall Semester favorite activity in 2008, and graduates were given a special Graduation Medallion beginning in 2008 as well.
Significant events: WSU facilities used during the Winter Olympics (2002); The new Davis Campus opens (2003); Block Party (2005) and Foam Bash (2008) held for the first time.
