We were honored to recognize Del Dickson at this morning's Distinguished Alumni assembly. Dickson, a graduate of the Class of 2000, organized his remarks around three themes: the past, the present, and the future.
He began with a lighthearted bit of lore about Uintah High's founding, framed as a good-natured dig at rival Union High. Then he expressed deep gratitude for his time at Uintah High, for the friendships he made and the teachers and coaches who invested their time in him. He honored four educators who shaped him and have since passed: Lyle Gillman, Kathy Hawkins, Julie Hansen, and Marlene Lake. He also thanked those still living who made a lasting impact on him: Gregg Stensgard, Mark Dockins, Reed Hansen, and his own father, Kevin.
Speaking about the present, Dickson observed that an entire industry exists to get people, including teenagers, to tune out and stop engaging with the world around them. He urged the audience to do the opposite, whether that means finally asking someone out, applying for a job, or hitting the road on a long-postponed trip.
Finally, Dickson pushed back against what he sees as a prevailing mood of pessimism, anger, and division when it comes to the future.
"We are still a place where I believe most think we are all created equal," Dickson said.
"The things this generation will help our world do will be incredible," he added, "and I look forward to being there cheering you along while you do those incredible things."
Congratulations, Del, on being selected as this year's Distinguished Alumni and GO UTES!