From the Nominator

"Brigham Young University alumni’s tagline is “connected for good.” BYU has great alumni around the country who are not just enduringly connected to each other and the university, but are also connected to doing good in their communities. That is why, when asked by the alumni directors to elevate the level of their tailgates at away football games, the chapters and the alumni staff created the COUGS CARE initiative.  

The COUGS CARE initiative is where each tailgate features a unique service project benefiting a local non-profit. These service projects are a way of saying thanks to the hosting community. Being mindful of the host communities, the alumni staff and chapters coordinate the service projects with various local groups and entities. BYU has even partnered with opposing universities on the projects. Through these interactions, BYU Alumni has built bridges and created lasting relationships.   

While providing an enjoyable event that brings BYU fans together and builds excitement for the game, the tailgates and COUGS CARE service projects engage thousands of alumni and fans for a good cause. COUGS CARE has raised thousands of dollars and collected literally tons of items for those in need.   

As BYU prepares to join a new athletic conference, BYU Alumni is excited to visit new areas and meet new people. The football games and the rivalries are lots of fun, but by participating in the COUGS CARE service projects, our alumni and fans are having a positive impact that connects them to the community for good."

From the Judges

The panel felt this entry was unique for its engagement with other institution’s local communities. The judges had seen expressions of this for home games—where efforts benefit your home community—but not those that focus on the opponent school’s community. Love the focus on collective and common good. The judges felt the materials created, such as the handbook, would help other schools considering adopting a strategy like this.