BYU Alumni Connect Through Sports & Service

Derek Miller, newly appointed president of the BYU Alumni Association, is emphasizing the university's unique approach to alumni engagement. Building on his own experience, Miller sees BYU sports, particularly football, as a key driver for connecting with alumni, even those far from Utah.

The university has gained recognition for its "Cougs Care" initiatives, combining game-day tailgates with significant community service projects in cities across the country. These efforts, which include book drives and support for local first responders, aim to create lasting positive impressions beyond the game itself.

This fall, BYU plans expanded community engagement in Fort Collins, Fort Worth, Orlando, Salt Lake City, and Lawrence. The initiative is broadening to include performing arts groups like musicians and the Young Ambassadors, ensuring engagement with a wider alumni base.

A beloved tradition of distributing free ice cream to visiting fans will resume on September 5th. This practice has even seen notable participation, such as Elder Gerrit W. Gong assisting in serving fans.

Miller encourages all BYU alumni to focus on making a name for Christ in the world, reflecting the university's Christ-centered mission. He also highlighted influential alumni across sports, arts, and civic leadership, including coaches like LaVell Edwards and athletes like Steve Young.