May 2026
Inaugural USU Brain Health Fair to Bring Together Experts and Northern Utah Community on June 13
The Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services is hosting its first annual USU Brain Health Fair. This free event is open to the public and will be held in the Sorenson Legacy Foundation Center for Clinical Excellence on the Logan campus on Saturday, June 13. The USU Brain Health Fair will provide resources for anyone wanting to know about healthy aging, as well as for people who are experiencing memory loss and those who care for them. Attendees can expect to learn about modifiable lifestyle behaviors to help combat Alzheimer’s Disease and cognitive decline, discover strategies to reduce their risk of dementia, and take actionable steps to promote healthy aging and improve overall brain health.
Research & News
2026-27 Dean’s Leadership Fellows Announced
The Dean’s Leadership Fellows for the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services have been announced for 2026. The program, which is made possible through resources provided by the Emma Eccles Jones Foundation, gives participants insight into the college’s administrative and operational structure while helping them develop leadership skills and values. This year’s fellows are Kristy Bloxham, Ph.D., Ramy Shaaban, Ph.D., and Nate Trauntvein, Ph.D.
USU Celebrates Statewide Nursing Program in Recognition of National Nurses Month
In May, the USU nursing program is recognizing National Nurses Month, which honors nurses for their dedication, compassion, and essential contributions to health care. The USU nursing program excels in preparing nurses for their future work. Students have achieved a remarkable 100 percent NCLEX pass rate over the past five years. The program also boasts a 99 percent graduation rate and an 89 percent job placement rate.
IDRPP Executive Director Matthew Wappett Addresses Statewide Disability at USU Blue Plate Event
Matthew Wappett, Ph.D., executive director of the Institute for Disability Research, Policy, and Practice, recently presented at Blue Plate Research, a health and wellbeing series that highlights research at USU. Wappett discussed the growing need for mental health support among people with disabilities, the history of disability policy in the United States, and the IDRPP’s ongoing role in shaping national disability research and advocacy.
2025-26 College Award Recipients Recognized for Excellence
Students, faculty, and staff in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services were recognized for their excellence in teaching, mentorship, academics, and service for the 2025-26 academic year. “Our team is doing meaningful work that pushes the boundaries of knowledge, advances cutting-edge learning opportunities, and enables communities in Utah and beyond to flourish,” said Endowed Dean Al Smith. “Congratulations to this year’s award recipients!”.
Upcoming Events
USU Brain Health Fair
Enriching Lives Through Healthier Minds
Saturday, June 13
10 AM – 4 PM
Sorenson Legacy Center for Clinical Excellence
USU Logan campus
Join us for the inaugural USU Brain Health Fair sponsored by the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services. The event is focused on promoting brain health and Alzheimer’s Disease awareness and prevention. Attendees can also participate in the Prevent Alzheimer’s for Life (PALS) research study. Learn more by visiting the USU Brain Health Fair website.
