Our community has spoken. We want a name that represents the history and heritage of Southern Utah. “St. George” was the second-most preferred name on our survey (Dixie 46.9% to St. George 45.6%). Since the Utah legislature has favored a name change for Dixie and DSU was tasked with reaching out to the community for input (to which over 14,000 people responded), Utah legislators should carefully consider our community’s response and choose another name that includes “St. George.”

Whether with the St. George or Dixie name, our community has always been represented in the university’s name. While the name “Saint George”(George A. Smith) is a return to our community’s roots, as the original name of the institution, it also has strong ties to our history. Because of his help settling much of Iron and Washington counties, Juanita Brooks titled him: “Father of the Southern Settlements.” His name represents ALL of Southern Utah. 

His story also inspires and represents the great heritage of Southern Utah. George Albert Smith (a potato farmer making his way westward) would eat the skins of the potatoes, so as to allow his family to enjoy the delicious flesh of the potatoes. When his family was hit with scurvy—and he lost his wife and four children—he learned potato peels could cure scurvy. His loss would spare so many others that hardship, as he dedicated much of his life to planting potatoes for others making their way westward. Saint George’s trailblazing story of service and sacrifice is every whit the heritage our community reveres. 

There are also several practical reasons the university should bear this name. The university’s mascot, the Trailblazer, fits right in with Saint George’s story—he is a literal trailblazer. Not to mention, the airport, the hospital, and the community all reflect his name, then why not the university? Lastly, the name clearly indicates university’s location which would help with recruiting. These practical reasons, as well as the heritage connection, make St. George a strong name for our university and community.

There are those who argue our university could be mistaken for a Catholic/religious institution. Most Catholic universities are highly prestigious and attract bright students, so that’s not a negative connotation. As per the DSU website, 82% of the student population is from Utah and wouldn’t need that explanation. However, if we name it St. George State University, it would eliminate confusion entirely. 

For those who desire to honor and preserve Southern Utah’s heritage, might I suggest signing this petition for the St. George name. 

If you’d like to get more involved, follow our Facebook Group “DSU: Name It St. George” or Instagram Group “@nameitstgeorge” 

photo credit: dixiesunnews.com