Description
In the fall of 1981, at the age of 35, Vern walked through the doors of the University of Utah to earn his master's degree in social work. The family business was no longer aligning with his desire to help others and understand human behavior better. A desire influenced by his church service. With none of their five children yet teenagers, he made a bold decision to change careers.
Vern has spent his life serving and lifting others and sharing the joy of the outdoors, especially with young people, helping them find courage and strength through nature and mentorship.
The University and Friends of Vern Utley are establishing an endowed scholarship in his name. Your gift will help create the Vern Utley Endowed Scholarship, which will support individuals who choose to go back to school to pursue a master's degree in social work. An endowed fund at the University allows us to provide ongoing support and stability to those awarded through its earnings.
By contributing to this scholarship fund, you’ll be helping those who, like Vern, are drawn to serve, support, and inspire others. Your gift will be a tribute to his life of faith and service, a gift that will allow his example to continue to shine in the lives of future social workers. Thank you for being a part of Vern’s journey and for considering a contribution to this meaningful cause.
The minimum amount needed to create this endowment is $25,000, which will yield roughly 4% annually toward this scholarship. In the event funds above $25,000 are contributed, more students will be supported by your pay it forward generosity. In the event the minimum amount is not met by December 31, 2026, the donations will be used to support the same students until funds have been exhausted.
The easiest ways to give are:
- Click the button at the top of this page
- Mail a check to the University - PO Box 58006, SLC, UT 84158
- Give online directly to the College of Social Work - https://ugive.app.utah.edu/designation/152
*When giving, please reference the following:
- Fund Name - Vern Utley Endowed Scholarship
- Designation Code - DO18025-40165Y
- Please let us know how you know Vern Utley, your email and/or mailing address to receive an invitation:
Once the scholarship is fully funded, Vern’s children will be hosting a surprise gathering that you are cordially invited to attend. A commemorative plaque with contributor names will be presented to Vern. If you would like to remain anonymous, you are welcome to reference how you know Vern instead. Here are a few ideas:
Sam Utley Family Tree | Maurer Family Legacy | Vern & Chris Utley Fan Club | Juneau Alaska Mission | Army Platoon | Big Cottonwood 14th Ward | Alpine 1st Ward | Alpine Moyle Park Ward | Young Men Camp Outs | American Fork X Ward | Bishop Vern Utley University Singles Ward X | Utah Boys Ranch | Life-Line | Private Practice | Timpanogos Temple | Nauvoo Temple Mission | Vern and Jenifer (Barney) Utley Fan Club | The Ben Utley Tribute | Anonymous
Donations are applied to...
Personal Message
Thank you for supporting this campaign in honor of Vern Utley.