Preserving traditions is a hallmark of alumni organizations, and a responsibility that guides many of the University of Utah Alumni Association's activities. But in keeping with the dynamic nature of higher education, active alumni also have a responsibility to establish traditions that evolve from present-day interests, community needs, and campus issues, points out Brenda Yamagata BS'84, chair of the Association's Community Service Committee.
The annual Utah Community Food Drive, for example, appears to be gaining ample status for recognition as one of the Assocation's most successful legacies. "Four years, and more than 400,000 pounds of food donated to the Utah Food Bank, tells us that this program is one that alumni and the community will support," says Yamagata.
The Alumni Association has slated this year's food drive for November 9 through 15, culminating with the Rice football game on Saturday. Yamagata and her committee hope to top last year's record-setting outcome by collecting an additional 20,000 pounds of donated food. Their goal is to collect more than 300,000 pounds of food.
Alumni, faculty, and staff can help meet the challenge by donating food items to the Alumni Association, sponsoring a collection barrel at a place of business, or by making a cash donation to the Utah Food Drive. Monetary donations are accepted in-person or by mail at the Alumni House, 155 South Central Campus Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112-0520. To find out out other ways to get involved, please contact the Alumni Association at 801/581-3895.
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