ST. GEORGE, Utah — Designed to expand educational opportunities, enhance student experiences, and invest in the future of Southern Utah, Utah Community Credit Union (UCCU) and Utah Tech University are entering into a transformative $7 million partnership.
This landmark collaboration will provide critical support for Utah Tech’s growing student body, helping fund initiatives that align with the university’s mission of providing an accessible hands-on, polytechnic education. As part of the partnership, UCCU will become an integrated presence on campus, promoting and elevating financial wellness initiatives.
“Utah Tech University is beyond proud to partner with UCCU — an organization that shares our vision for empowering individuals through education, innovation, and community engagement,” Utah Tech President Shane B. Smeed said. “This partnership is not just an investment in our students’ future, but a way to ensure every Trailblazer has the tools and opportunities to succeed. I am extraordinarily grateful to UCCU for their incredible commitment to student achievement and community-wide success.”
Specifically, the partnership will include opening a UCCU branch in the student housing district of campus in the coming years to offer students financial services at a convenient location. Additionally, a financial wellness center will be created on the Utah Tech campus to provide financial literacy and educational opportunities.
“This partnership is a commitment to the financial success of every Trailblazer and this entire community,” said Justin Olson, President and CEO of UCCU. “Our credit union was founded on a college campus, and our roots in higher education run deep. We’re thrilled and honored to join Utah Tech in building a bright future where education and financial strength go hand in hand.”
Demonstrating Smeed’s commitment to community collaboration, the announcement of the partnership comes days after he was inaugurated as the 19th president of Utah Tech University.
“I can’t think of a better way to mark the beginning of my tenure at Utah Tech University than with the establishment of this meaningful and important partnership with UCCU,” Smeed said. “This alliance is a reflection of my vision for Utah Tech to collaborate with like-minded organizations to positively impact the lives of the students and community members we both serve.”
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About Utah Tech University
Utah Tech University is a comprehensive, open-enrollment polytechnic institution committed to offering active learning experiences that prepare students for rewarding careers and meaningful lives. With 300 academic programs, emphases and minors, Utah Tech blends applied learning with industry partnerships to meet the needs of the region and the state.
About Utah Community Credit Union
Utah Community Credit Union (UCCU) is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving Utah. With a strong focus on supporting higher education and local initiatives, UCCU offers a wide range of financial products and services designed to help members and business owners strengthen their finances, achieve their dreams, and love where they bank.
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UCCU-UT Partnership 1: Utah Community Credit Union and Utah Tech University enter into a $7 million partnership as, from left, UCCU Senior Vice President of Marketing Brad Norton, UT Vice President of Administrative Affairs Paul Morris, UT Chief Advancement Officer Lance Brown, UCCU President and CEO Justin Olson, UT President Shane B. Smeed, UCCU Vice President of Performance Marketing Richard Hirst, UCCU Associate Vice President of Digital Marketing and Strategic Alliances Jordan Perry, and UT Board of Trustees Chair Deven Macdonald celebrate.
UCCU-UT Partnership 2: From left, Utah Tech University President Shane B. Smeed, Utah Community Credit Union Vice President of Performance Marketing Richard Hirst, UCCU Senior Vice President of Marketing Brad Norton, UCCU Associate Vice President of Digital Marketing and Strategic Alliances Jordan Perry, and UCCU President and CEO Justin Olson celebrate the organizations’ partnership.
UCCU-UT Partnership 3: Utah Community Credit Union President and CEO Justin Olson and Senior Vice President of Marketing Brad Norton celebrate partnering with Utah Tech University.
