Serving 1 year as President Elect, 1 year as President, and 1 year as Past President. The President will direct the Executive Board and conduct the meetings, act as chief SA spokesperson to the President of Utah Tech University, serve as a voting member of the University Council, and represent the Association before the public. Vote for one.
I am grateful to be a Utah Tech University Trailblazer and work with students in the Higher Education for Incarcerated Youth (HEIY) program which serves justice-impacted young people. UT’s HEIY program leads the nation in the percentage of long-term incarcerated youth successfully earning college credit while in custody.
We at UT can and should celebrate the success of our fellow Trailblazers. As the students we serve become more able, self-efficacious, kind, and responsible, we are all successful. UT’s spirit of friendship and cooperation is real. I feel like respect for our colleague’s professional expertise is a key to cooperation.
About me:
I love to hike the hills and valleys of the Southwest…and I don’t mind attending meetings!
Prior to becoming a Trailblazer, I served as associate professor and department chair at another institution and as volunteer principal of Mikuni International College in Japan.
Jamy, LCSW, joined the UT Wellness Center in 2017. She graduated from Eastern Washington University with a Master’s degree in Social Work and has worked in outpatient treatment settings in direct practice, administration, clinical supervision & wellness programming. She enjoys working with students on their new-found adventure at UT and can help address many concerns students may be struggling with.
While at Utah Tech she has been involved with student, faculty and staff mental health trainings, & campus wellness events and programs. She was previously an active participate on the Staff Association Wellness committee & overall enjoys all things that bring a culture of connectedness to UT campus. She is currently a UWHEN (Utah Women in Higher Education Network) Board Member, graduated from Utah Tech Trailblazer Leadership Program in May 2023, and is currently in Leadership Dixie, graduating in May 2024.
In her free time she loves spending time with her family camping, hiking, dirt biking, swimming, wakeboarding, boating, paddle boarding, reading, gardening, & adventuring.
My name is Nate Eaton and I’m currently the Director of Facilities Services with 20+ years of experience in the construction/project management field.
One of my main objectives in life is to create an environment where people feel safe, comfortable and simply enjoy spending their time.
I enjoy using my skills to contribute to the growth of the Utah Tech University campus and I am proud to be part of the Trailblazer family.
I am truly inspired by the amazing people I get to work with/beside each and every day. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my wife of 22 years and 3 kids, playing pickleball or serving others in my church/community.
As I always say, “It’s not worth doing if you’re not having fun”! GO TRAILBLAZERS!!!
I fell in love with this institution 26 years ago as a student. I served as Student Body President & served as a board member for the Alumni Association for many years. Currently, I serve as the Athletic Development Officer and Executive Dir of the Trailblazer Club. Before working as a fundraiser, I was the Associate AD of External Relations, Adjunct Professor for RSM Marketing & Event Mgmt, Community Relations Dir for Women’s Basketball, Associate Mgr of Field Marketing for TDS & the Community Center Dir for Washington City. I love serving & being involved wherever I am. I will provide leadership, energy & development to the Staff Association. I have a combined total of 21 years of progressively responsible experience working as an expert in marketing, fundraising, networking, events, education, corporate partnerships, community engagement & economic development. It would be an honor to serve as the President-Elect for the Staff Association. My passion for this institution and for our incredible staff continues to grow. I have the energy & time to work hard to represent you this coming year!
The Communications Officer shall serve a two-year term. The Communications Officer will be elected on even years. The Communications Officer shall: (1) keep the SA Website current, including all approved minutes published, (2) proofread communications distributed by SA as needed, (3) maintain the SA email list, and (4) serve as a member of the Executive Board.
Mum and Dad raised me to be civic -minded, so I’m pleased to run for a chance to serve on the Staff Association. I was raised up north, but vacationed every summer in my grandparent’s condo, picking up stray golf balls on the Dixie Red Hills golf course. I earned my associate in graphic design, a bachelor in public relations, and a master’s in mass communication. I’ve been over-communicating since I was 18 months old, and professionally communicating for the past 24 years. After many years marketing in the private world, I transitioned to higher education because I like “selling” something I believe in, and we—my spouse and pack of naughty dogs—landed in St. George because we truly loathe shoveling snow. I’d love to expend some of my effort in helping Utah Tech University be a place we continue to be proud of.
Hello friends! I’m deeply involved in enhancing digital communication across the Utah Tech campus, striving to create a more connected community where everyone can thrive. My professional background in IoT helps me foster these connections, though my passions extend well beyond the digital landscape.
You’ll often find me exploring the great outdoors, whether I’m mountain biking through rugged trails, adventuring by motorcycle, or exploring this beautiful desert landscape. At home, I’m usually immersed in a new renovation project, transforming spaces with my own hands, which is as rewarding as discovering technical solutions that benefit our campus community.
I’m also an avid fan of anything nerd—tech gadgets, sci-fi series, and the latest tech developments are my go-to conversations. Let’s swap book recommendations, I am always ready for the latest story!
The Treasurer shall serve a two-year term. The Treasurer will be elected on even years. The Treasurer shall: (1) keep an accurate record of all funds, accounts and financial records, including any collection and disbursement of funds for the fiscal year (July 1-June 30), (2) present an annual written financial report to the Executive 5 Utah Tech University Constitution and By-Laws Board, (3) serve as chair of the SA scholarship committee, and (4) serve as a member of the Executive Board. The annual financial report shall be included in the SA annual President’s Report
Hello! As a proud alumna and staff member of Utah Tech, I would be honored to serve on the Staff Association board for this campus and community that I love so much.
I started my journey in Higher Education working in the Registrar’s Office while I was earning my degree, and later had the opportunity to work as the Registration Coordinator for a few years before moving to my current role in Academic Advising.
I love working with students and seeing their growth and journey as they discover themselves and what their passion is. Coming from both a student and employee perspective, I know nothing on campus would be possible for our students without all of the hard work and dedication of the staff that support our students and make their time here something they will remember.
A board member will serve as a member of the Executive Board, act under the direction of the President, and will chair or co-chair an SA committee. Vote for four.
Brooke Alldredge-Smith brings over a decade of experience to her role as the Disability Specialist at Utah Tech University, where she is dedicated to supporting, encouraging, and connecting with university students. By providing accommodations tailored to individual needs, Brooke fosters an environment of equality, equity, and lifelong learning. Throughout her career, Brooke’s passion flourished in her work with individuals, including children, teenagers, and adults facing diverse disabilities.
With a rich Spanish heritage, Brooke finds fulfillment in sharing her culture and engaging with others’ cultural backgrounds, always seeking to deepen her understanding of the world around her. Above all, Brooke identifies as a devoted mother, cherishing moments spent with her family, including her twins, Troy and Elinor, whom she delights in spending quality time with. Having a background in opera training, Brooke delights in sharing her musical talents, frequently singing to her twins with opera, and reveling in their participation. Brooke attributes her achievements and dedication to her supportive husband, Zak Smith, her parents, Carmen and Troy Alldredge, and her in-laws, Suzi and Mitch Smith.
Branin Boyack is a seasoned construction project manager with over two decades of experience in the construction industry. His career began in fence construction, where he led multiple projects and managed teams of laborers, demonstrating his leadership and expertise early on. Branin spent ten productive years in building maintenance and remodel project management at SkyWest Airlines, where he honed his skills in overseeing complex projects and leading teams.
Following his tenure at SkyWest, Branin transitioned to Utah Tech University, dedicating a year to building maintenance before stepping into his current role as a construction project manager. In addition to his professional career, he is an entrepreneur, co-founding Smash Labs—a recreational facility with locations in St. George and Cedar City, Utah.
Outside of work, Branin is a devoted family man, married with two daughters, two sons, and two dogs. His hobbies include camping, hunting, and cultivating his businesses. Branin cherishes time spent outdoors and with his family, always seeking to advance his personal and professional life while maintaining a relaxed, approachable demeanor.
Throughout her career at Utah Tech, Alicia has shown dedication and problem-solving solutions for the department. She is the go-to person for faculty, staff, and students. Alicia takes great pride in the professional knowledge and growth she has developed while working at Utah Tech University.
Alicia is currently participating in the 2023-2024 Trailblazer Leadership Development cohort at Utah Tech University. Through this experience, she has been a force for positive change in completing her “Taylor Health Sciences Micro Food Desert Project.” She plans to use her leadership skills to further provide resources for students and grow connections with colleagues throughout Utah Tech University!
In 2023, recognizing her outstanding contributions, Alicia was awarded the Staff Member of the Year Award – Rising Star at the Trailblazer Awards Ceremony as well as the College of Health Science Oustanding Administrative Award.
She is eager to join the Utah Tech Staff Association team and looks forward to fostering connections and making a difference in our Trailblazer community.
My name is Valerie Housley and I have been working here at Utah Tech since 2016. I came back to school as a non-traditional student in 2012 and loved it so much that I decided I didn’t ever want to leave. I spent my first 7 years here working with first-generation students in the TRiO program and then this last year as a GE Advisor. I also teach Interpersonal Communication as an ajunct instructor. I was a first-generation college student myself and ejoy watch students grow and evolve as they expand their knowledge and decide who they want to become. Fun is anything that brings a smile to face, joy to my heart, and laughter to my soul. I have a passion for the outdoors and love a good adventure hiking, rappelling, or kayaking. My motto in life is “Feel the fear, and do it anyway”. My greatest accomplishment is raising three amazing kids who are contribiuting to society in important ways. I can’t get enough of my 5 beautiful grandchildren.
Brenda Medrano graduated from Utah Tech University in 2017 with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Communication. She returned to Utah Tech in November 2021 as the Coordinator for Latinx/Undocumented DACA Students in the Center for Inclusion & Belonging. She also advises the Student Organization of Latinos (SOL) on campus. Brenda’s commitment to fostering inclusion and belonging is further evident through her active participation on several campus committees, including the Professional Development Committee within the Staff Association. Brenda’s dedication to the university earned her nominations and awards, including the 2022 Dixie State University TRiO Trailblazer Award and the 2023 Trailblazer Awards Top 5 finalist in the Distinguished Staff Member – Rising Star category. Within the last year, she was recognized as Staff of the Month in August 2023 and Employee of the Semester for the Student Affairs Division in December 2023. Her most recent achievement is graduating from the Trailblazer Leadership Development Program at Utah Tech and is excited to be a board member nominee for the Staff Association.
I am originally from Colombia, South America, and have resided in Utah for nine years. The diversity and challenges I have chosen to take in my academic and professional journey have been enriching and enlightening. After earning my bachelor’s degree in accounting, I worked as an accountant in my home country. Following my passion for teaching and learning, a few years later, I earned my master’s degree from Northern Arizona University. After graduating and getting married, I relocated to St. George, obtained a Montessori certification, and worked as a lead teacher in a local charter school for seven years. Last year, I earned my Utah School Leadership license and transitioned into the role of Assistant Director for the Trailblazer CYP here at Utah Tech. I have been in my current position for one year and am ready to deepen my involvement in the university community. I believe communication is the key to successful relationships, and I am committed to serving as a bridge between staff and administration, ensuring our voices are heard and valued.
I’m Madi Wawrzyniak, for the past 6 years I have been working as an Academic Advisor for Utah Tech’s Student Success Program. Guiding students to their academic goals is my passion, and I’ve found immense fulfillment in supporting their journeys. This year, I’m determined to join the Staff Association, seeing it as a chance to advocate and support my Utah Tech colleagues.
I recently completed the Trailblazer Leadership Development Program, gaining skills I’m eager to share with staff to foster growth and collaboration. My commitment to service extends beyond my advisory role. I’ve actively contributed to various committees, including the Awards and Recognition committee, Common Read Committee, and Academic Standing Committee. Through these experiences, I’ve demonstrated my dedication to enhancing the university experience for everyone involved.
Beyond work, I love the outdoors and tackling puzzles. Joining the Staff Association would be an honor, as I’m eager to make a meaningful difference at Utah Tech and would be honored to contribute my leadership skills to the Staff Association.
