While this year’s “Holy War” football game between the University of Utah and Brigham Young University provoked the usual passionate response from both sides (and perhaps a bit more, given the controversial conclusion), a BYUtv crew took it as an opportunity to move away from the vitriol and the rhetoric. 

In advance of the game, BYUtv approached U leadership with a simple premise: Instead of getting involved in the trash talk, they would use their “Big Stories” series platform to showcase what being part of the University of Utah ecosystem is all about. 

While much of the 6-plus-minute video focuses on University President and former David Eccles School of Business Dean Taylor Randall explaining his threefold mission — “My responsibility is to inspire individuals, to help them innovate, and help them learn how to serve their communities” — several other prominent figures from around the Eccles School were featured. 

Natalie Gochnour, Associate Dean and Director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, succinctly noted the university’s purpose. 

“We are a state school, we’re a public university, and — by definition — we serve,” she said. “We’re all about trying to help the state prosper, because of the training, the skills, the resources that we have. We serve the community we’re located in.” 

She also introduced one of the most beloved faculty members in the Eccles School: “We have a treasure on our campus, someone we call ‘Dr. Abe.’ He’s inspired thousands of students.” 

Abe Bakhsheshy is a revered professor in the Department of Entrepreneurship & Strategy and Director of the Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative. 

He spoke poignantly of the U’s impact — on himself and myriad others. 

“The people of this state helped me, coached me, mentored me — nobody gave me any handout; but through good luck, compassion, and empathy, I was able to finish my doctorate degree,” he said. “And to this day, this university continues to make a difference in the lives of millions of education-seekers from all over the country.” 

Isabelle White, the current Business Student Government CEO, recounted her journey from being a high school student who felt like she didn’t fit in anywhere to becoming a college student who has flourished in part from finding the right campus communities to be involved in. 

She also praised the administration for empowering and supporting students. 

“They are always looking for student impact, they are always looking for ways to make change,” said White, “and really just making sure that everyone feels heard and accepted here.” 

Meanwhile, new Eccles School Dean Kurt Dirks appeared near the video’s end and reiterated the importance of providing Utah students with the support and resources necessary for their success. 

“As every student goes through here, they’re going to run into tough times, or, maybe, opportunities,” he said. “And it matters so much that they know someone’s in their corner, someone’s out there looking out for them, someone’s there to help them take that next step.”