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Staycations: Explore Logan

By From Our Partners

Whether you’re planning a relaxing staycation or an exciting vacation, Logan Utah offers something for everyone. Just a short drive from the stunning Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway, you’ll find endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and photography, all surrounded by breathtaking nature. The picturesque canyon is perfect for a day of exploration or a peaceful picnic by the river.

Logan Utah
Famous Aggie Ice Cream is one food on the self-guided Cache Valley Food Trek.

Logan’s vibrant arts scene takes center stage every summer with over 150 live performances. From the Lyric Rep at Utah State University to the historic Utah Theatre’s silent movie series, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences. The Ellen Eccles Theatre also hosts incredible performances, including Arrival from Sweden: The Music of ABBA and Broadway productions of The Scarlet Pimpernel and The Prince of Egypt. As a bonus, enjoy free weekday concerts at the Tabernacle, featuring a variety of impressive entertainment.

History lovers will enjoy the American West Heritage Center, where you can try hands-on activities like hatchet throwing and wagon rides and interact with mountain men, farmers, and pioneers. It’s the perfect opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the past.

Logan Utah
Center Street in Historic Downtown Logan. Photo by Amy Jensen.

A visit to Cache Valley wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Cache Valley Visitors Bureau, located in the historic courthouse. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help you plan the perfect getaway with personalized tips, maps, and suggestions for exploring the area. While you’re there, check out the gift shop, featuring local goods and souvenirs. Don’t miss the Farmers Market every Saturday, offering fresh produce and unique artisanal items.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Cache Valley offers the perfect getaway. Plan your visit today at ExploreLogan.com or call (435) 755-1890.


Find more Staycation and Vacation inspiration from our partners. And while you’re here, subscribe to Salt Lake magazine to receive six beautiful print issues a year!

Staycations: Pendry Park City

By From Our Partners

Tucked within the exclusive Canyons Village, Pendry Park City is an elevated mountain escape where adventure and sophistication intertwine every season. Just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, this ski-in, ski-out retreat delivers seamless access to world-class slopes in winter and an endless playground of outdoor experiences year-round.

Pendry Park City
Photo courtesy of The Pendry Park City.

At Compass Sports, every itinerary is designed for curious explorers and thrill-seekers alike, regardless of season. In the summer months, enjoy guided mountain biking or hiking excursions, cast a line for fly fishing in pristine alpine waters, or soar above the valley on a private hot air balloon ride. When the snow blankets the Wasatch, experience legendary skiing, guided snowshoe adventures, dog sledding, or even heli-skiing for the ultimate high-altitude thrill. For those craving something truly personal, Pendry curates one-of-a-kind experiences—turning moments into unforgettable memories.

After a day of discovery, unwind with Pendry’s world-class amenities and elevated après culture. Indulge in expertly crafted Japanese cuisine at KITA, Pendry’s signature sushi and steakhouse, where modern techniques meet traditional flavors in a refined setting. Sip handcrafted cocktails and enjoy shareable bites at Après Pendry, a lively, sophisticated lobby lounge that embodies the spirit of après-ski. For unparalleled mountain views, The Pool House Bar & Grille serves elevated American fare in a chic rooftop setting that transitions effortlessly from day to night.

For those seeking restoration and relaxation, Spa Pendry provides a tranquil retreat with an extensive menu of customized massages, revitalizing facials and full-body therapies designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. Whether you need a deep-tissue recovery session after a day on the slopes or are looking to unwind in a steam room or relaxation lounge, every treatment is crafted for total renewal.

Pendry Park City
Photo courtesy of The Pendry Park City.

With impeccable service and effortless luxury, Pendry Park City redefines the art of escape. Whether you’re chasing winter adrenaline or summer serenity, this destination is designed for those who crave adventure, indulgence, and inspiration—all year long.

Stay More, Do More — Enjoy Up to a 25% Savings

Visit pendry.com/park-city/offers/ to extend your stay and explore all that Park City has to offer. Reserve a minimum of 2 nights and receive a 15% savings on our best available rat, a minimum of 4 nights and enjoy a 20% savings or stay 6 or more nights and receive a 25% savings.

Pendry Park City
2417 W. High Mountain Rd., Park City
435-800-1990


Find more Staycation and Vacation inspiration from our partners. And while you’re here, subscribe to Salt Lake magazine to receive six beautiful print issues a year!

Discover the Ultimate Zion Experience at AutoCamp

By From Our Partners

A Comfortable Stay, Surrounded by Nature 

Wake up to stunning desert landscapes in one of AutoCamp Zion’s modern Airstreams, cozy cabins, or a spacious BaseCamp suite that features an Airstream for sleeping, a private canvas tent for additional space, and an outdoor fire pit for those starry nights. Designed for both comfort and outdoor enthusiasts alike, each accommodation provides plush bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces, and, of course, heating and air conditioning to ensure the perfect temperature no matter the season. It’s the ideal blend of rustic charm and modern convenience. 

AutoCamp Zion welcomes all guests, including those with accessibility needs, with specially designed Accessible Suites and Cabins that ensure an enjoyable stay for everyone. These accommodations feature step-free access, wider doorways, roll-in showers, and thoughtfully designed interiors that provide ease of movement, all without compromising style and comfort. 

Zion Experience at AutoCamp
AutoCamp Zion offers a year-round pool for relaxation in any season. Photo by Matt Kisiday

At the heart of the property, the Clubhouse serves as a welcoming hub, where guests can pick up local provisions at The General Store or enjoy handcrafted meals at The Kitchen. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before hitting the trails or refueling with a delicious meal, The Kitchen has options that cater to every appetite. The menu features fresh, seasonal dishes like the Warm Grain Bowl and Cauliflower Crust Pizza, along with a selection of beer and wine to toast to your adventures. And for those who crave the classic experience of campfire cooking, AutoCamp’s Grill Kits include all the premium ingredients to create a perfectly grilled dinner at your private fire pit. 

Zion Experience at AutoCamp
At the heart of the property, the Clubhouse serves as a welcoming hub, where guests can pick up local provisions at The General Store or enjoy handcrafted meals at The Kitchen. Photo by Matt Kisiday

Adventure, Relaxation, and Everything in Between 

AutoCamp Zion offers more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination for discovery and outdoor recreation. Activities and amenities include: 

  • Easy access to the Virgin River for a refreshing dip after a day outdoors 
  • A year-round pool for relaxation in any season 
  • Complimentary yoga and meditation sessions to help you recharge 
  • Live music, storytelling, and fireside gatherings to make your trip memorable 
  • Outdoor movie nights and hands-on crafts for all ages 
  • Culinary tastings and workshops showcasing local flavors 
  • Guided outdoor excursions, including hikes, rock climbing, and photography tours in and around Zion National Park 
  • On-site bike rentals for those looking to explore the area on two wheels 
  • Pet-friendly accommodations, so you don’t have to leave your four-legged friend behind 

For those planning a special event or group retreat, AutoCamp Zion features a versatile 1,200-square-foot meeting space and an expansive 30,000-square-foot lawn, making it an ideal setting for celebrations, corporate gatherings, weddings, and memorable getaways. 

A Sustainable Stay Under the Stars 

AutoCamp is committed to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly design and practices to minimize environmental impact. From water-efficient landscaping to energy-conscious building materials, the property blends seamlessly into its surroundings while maintaining a focus on responsible travel. The experience is not just about luxury—it’s about appreciating and preserving the natural beauty of Zion for future generations. 

Exclusive Offer for Utah Residents 

Utah locals can enjoy a 20% discount on the best available rate when booking a stay at AutoCamp Zion. To take advantage of this offer. Visit autocamp.com/utah-locals/

Whether you’re setting out on an outdoor adventure, gathering with loved ones, or looking for a serene retreat, AutoCamp Zion offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip today and redefine the way you explore Zion.

Find more Staycation and Vacation inspiration from our partners. And while you’re here, subscribe to Salt Lake magazine to receive six beautiful print issues a year!

Zion Experience at AutoCamp
for those who crave the classic experience of campfire cooking, AutoCamp’s Grill Kits include all the premium ingredients to create a perfectly grilled dinner at your own private fire pit. Photo by Matt Kisiday

Lauren Thompson of Twenty and Creek Jenya Norman of Norman Weddings and Events and Melanie Seaman of Twenty and Creek_SLM SO24_Ashlee Brooke Photography

Why Ceremony Florals are Essential for your Special Day

By From Our Partners

Tell your love story with one-of-a-kind floral design by Artisan Bloom

Your wedding ceremony is the moment everything becomes real. It’s where you and your partner look into one another’s eyes, exchange lifelong promises, and step into a new chapter together. It’s a moment filled with emotion, love, and beauty—and it deserves a setting that reflects just that. Investing in breathtaking florals for your ceremony isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about elevating the experience for you and your guests while creating timeless memories that will last a lifetime.

The Photos You’ll Cherish Forever

Your wedding album will be filled with the magic of your ceremony—your walk down the aisle, the moment you say “I do,” and the pure joy on your guests’ faces. Every floral element, from grandiose arches to lush aisle pieces, frames these moments in an unforgettable way. When you look back on your wedding photos, you’ll see more than just flowers—you’ll see a setting that captures the essence of your love story.  You’ll see a memory.

Smart Design with Repurposing in Mind

At Artisan Bloom, we believe that breathtaking florals should continue to shine throughout your wedding day. That’s why we prioritize repurposing ceremony florals to enhance areas of your reception, allowing you to maximize your investment. Imagine your ceremony arch transformed into a lush sweetheart table backdrop, aisle florals doubling as elegant reception accents, or statement arrangements greeting guests at the entrance to your celebration. By repurposing these designs, we help you create a cohesive floral experience while addressing key areas of your reception—places where you would need to allocate your budget anyway. This not only adds depth and luxury to your event but also ensures that no petal goes to waste.

Setting the Tone for Your Entire Wedding Day

Your ceremony is the introduction to your wedding aesthetic. Whether you dream of a romantic garden-inspired setting, a modern and minimalist altar, or an opulent floral wonderland, the ceremony florals set the stage for the rest of the celebration. Investing in lush, high-impact designs creates a seamless transition into your reception and gives guests a taste of what’s to come.

A Reflection of Your Love Story

No two love stories are the same, and your wedding florals should be a reflection of yours. Whether inspired by a favorite flower, a sentimental color palette, or a meaningful design, investing in your ceremony florals ensures that your wedding is uniquely yours. Artisan Bloom specializes in bringing floral dreams to life, and curating designs that feel personal, luxurious, and unforgettable.

Investing in Ceremony Florals: A Decision You’ll Never Regret

When planning your wedding, it’s easy to focus on the reception, but the ceremony is where your journey as a married couple truly begins. By investing in spectacular florals, you’re not only elevating your wedding day—you’re creating a beautiful, meaningful experience that will be captured in your photos, cherished by your guests, and remembered for a lifetime. With thoughtful design, expert repurposing, and a commitment to making your vision come to life, Artisan Bloom is here to ensure that every petal is placed with purpose, making your wedding day as magical as you’ve always imagined.

Artisan Bloom
7573 S. Main St., Midvale
(801) 913-7444
artisanbloom.com


Hoopes Events Can Create Your Dream Celebration

By From Our Partners

Your love story is something that is entirely ‘you,’ and your happily-ever-after should be just as unique. No two weddings should be exactly alike. Each wedding Hoopes Events creates follows that motto to bring your personality into the very heart of your wedding.

“The Hoopes Events style is to take the lifestyle of our couple and turn that into their perfect wedding,” says Tonya Hoopes, owner. “We believe in creating those unique special touches that have significance and meaning for each couple.” For more than a decade, her diverse team of planners has been creating events that showcase what makes your romance so special.

Photography by Nicole Aston Photo.

Investing in a talented and qualified wedding team is the key to a stress-free wedding, as well as a sure way to make your event one that you and your loved ones will never forget. But that doesn’t mean breaking the wedding budget.

 “Just as each and every wedding is unique, so is every budget,” says Hoopes. “We don’t try to fit our clients into a look or location. At the end of the day, we want our clients to be happy, comfortable and feel good about working with our team.” Having a planner that knows which vendors fit your personality and budget, can handle the small details of your big day and are prepared to take your vision from the drawing board to reality really is priceless.

Hoopes Events loves making every wedding unique. Hoopes’ repertoire includes a Harry Potter theme, a gaming theme, skiing and snowboarding theme and many others. Although they are based in Utah, Hoopes has also done weddings in California, Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana and Colorado.

Photography by Nicole Aston Photo.

Hoopes Events also applies their expertise and knowledge to help couples live out their exotic, destination wedding dreams. They’re looking forward to their weddings in Tulum, Mexico and Guanacaste, Costa Rica the first part of this year. Here’s what Tonya has to say about destination weddings, “What most couples don’t realize is that a destination wedding, in many cases, costs less than a traditional wedding. What’s more romantic than a wedding at your dream destination surrounded by family and friends?”

“I am so inspired by each of my clients as I hear stories of how they met, where they work, details of their personal lives and so much more. I love following them through the rest of their life milestones; it brings joy into our days and reminds me of why my team works hard to ensure our clients special day is all about them!”

– Tonya Hoopes, Owner

Ask the Expert:

What’s Ahead:

The year 2023 is bringing new opportunities for couples: We’re so excited! The world is open and couples can look forward to endless opportunities for their wedding celebration.

Excited about:

We’re looking forward to mismatched dress colors and styles. This trend brings color pops to every wedding while allowing each bridal party member to create a look that complements them without distracting from the bride!

Fresh Ideas:

A wedding to remember is all about personal touches. What moves you? A breathtaking mountain view, a rustic cabin, an elaborate hall or a fairy-tale castle? Be willing to create that vision. A lot can be done to transform any venue into the wedding venue of your dreams.

Contact Hoopes Weddings and Events

Tonya Hoopes, Owner
435-414-0090
104 E. Fort Union Blvd., Midvale
hoopesevents.com

The Remote Work Dilemma: Finding the Right Setup in Salt Lake City

By From Our Partners

The shift to remote work over the last five years has dramatically changed the way we think about the office. While working from home offers a sense of flexibility, it also brings challenges that many professionals originally didn’t anticipate. At first, working from your kitchen table might have felt like a dream—no commute, comfortable clothes, and the ability to take calls from your couch between folding loads of laundry. But over time, the novelty wears off, and the reality sets in: uncontrollable distractions, lack of proper office equipment, isolation, and the inability to effectively separate work from personal life.

A study from Buffer’s State of Remote Work report found that while 98% of remote workers want to continue working remotely in some capacity, nearly 27% cite struggling with loneliness as one of the biggest challenges. Remote works also noted a general struggle with motivation, frustrating communication barriers, and the inability to access a designated workspace that fosters productivity.

If you’re working remotely in Salt Lake City, it’s important to find a setup that supports your workflow. Whether it’s a dedicated home office, a flexible workspace, or a professional meeting spot, having the ability to switch up your work environment day to day can make all the difference.

Why Flexibility is Key to Productivity

For many remote workers, no two days will ever look the same. Some days require deep and quiet focus, while others call for collaboration or in-person meetings. The ability to customize where and how you work is what makes remote work truly possible long term. That’s why The Shop Workspace in Salt Lake City offers a hyper-flexible approach to coworking, allowing remote workers to adapt their work environment as needed.

The Shop Workspace: A Workspace That Works for You

The Shop Workspace isn’t just another office—it’s a dynamic, hospitality-driven space designed for remote professionals, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small teams who need a flexible alternative to working from home. With an emphasis on world-class design, comfort, and ease, The Shop SLC creates an environment where professionals can be productive, network, and balance work with lifestyle without breaking the bank or committing for years at a time.

The Shop Workspace
The Shop SLC. Photo by Austen Diamond.

The Three Most Flexible Ways to Work at The Shop:

  • Drop in for the Day – If you need a break from home distractions, The Shop’s Day Pass option gives you access to high-speed WiFi, comfortable workstations, and complimentary coffee for a single day.
  • Commons Membership – Not ready to commit to a full-time office? The Commons Membership provides flexible monthly access, so you can switch up your work environment as needed—whether it’s a few days per week or just when you need a change of scenery. The best part? The Shop also offers a part-time commons option for those only looking to get out of the house 1-2x a week.
  • Conference Rooms – Experience The Shop in increments as small as thirty minutes with on-demand Conference Room bookings. Perfect for those who need professional, functional and design forward collaboration spaces. 

More Than Just a Desk: Amenities That Support Your Work

Coworking is about more than just having a desk, it’s about having the tools and environment that make remote work effective. The Shop Workspace offers a robust suite of amenities that help professionals stay productive, engaged, and connected:

  • Professional Meeting Spaces – Impress clients with well-designed, fully equipped conference rooms that can be booked on demand. Seven total rooms ensure availability when you need it most. 
  • Multiple Work Zones – Each floor of The Shop SLC has a unique vibe that helps our members optimize their workspace. From the quiet zone on our fourth floor to the lively energy in the third-floor kitchen, members have the power of choice when they pick their office for the day.
  • On-Site Perks – High-speed internet with a redundancy line, printing, twelve private phone booths, and unlimited coffee, soda, cold brew, tea and espresso ensure you have everything you need to be productive.
  • Engaging Community – The Shop hosts events, networking opportunities, and professional development sessions to help you connect with like-minded professionals on a weekly basis. 
  • Rooftop & Lounge Areas – Break up your day by stepping outside into the sunshine or relaxing in thoughtfully designed common areas.
  • Wellness-Focused Design – Natural light, ample plants, ergonomic seating, and an inspiring aesthetic help create a space that supports well-being and focus.

The Shop Workspace
The Shop SLC. Photo by Austen Diamond.

The Freedom to Work How You Want, When You Want

One of the biggest advantages of The Shop Workspace is the ability to create a flexible routine that suits your lifestyle. Need a quiet place to grind through a deadline in the morning? There’s a dedicated focus area for that. Have a last-minute client meeting in the afternoon? Book a conference room on demand. Want to break up the monotony of working from home? Drop in for a day pass whenever you need.

Working in the same space every day leads to feelings of stagnation. The ability to shift between different environments within The Shop—whether it’s the rooftop lounge, a private meeting space, or a communal coworking area—ensures that your work environment stays fresh, engaging, and conducive to productivity.

How The Shop Helps You Work Smarter

Ultimate Flexibility – No rigid leases or long-term commitments—just a space that works for you on your terms. 

Designed for Productivity – Purpose-built workspaces that enhance focus, creativity, and function without sacrificing form. 

Prime Location in Salt Lake City – Convenient downtown location, right off the UTA Trax Red Line, restaurants, and cultural hotspots. 

A Work-Life Balance Booster – Separate your work life from home life and avoid burnout by having a dedicated workspace when you need it. 

A Space That Grows with You – Start with a day pass, upgrade to a Commons Membership, and eventually secure a private office if your needs ever evolve.

A Team Dedicated to Having Your Back – Our onsite Community Team embody hospitality at every turn. Functioning as an extension of both you and your team, our staff is ready at the drop of the hat to roll the red carpet out for your guest or grab a tide pen for you from our Oops Bin.  

Staying Successful with Remote Work 

Beyond where you work, how you work makes a big impact on your success as a remote professional. Here are a few best practices to maximize your productivity:

  • Set Clear Work Hours – Maintaining a consistent schedule helps separate work from personal life and ensures you stay on track.
  • Take Breaks & Move – Step away from the screen every couple of hours, take a walk outside, or grab a coffee to reset your focus.
  • Engage with Others – Networking events, casual conversations, or even just working near others helps combat the isolation of remote work.
  • Optimize Your Workspace – Choose an environment that supports your productivity, whether that’s a quiet desk for deep work or a social space for collaboration.
  • Use the Right Tools – Invest in good noise-canceling headphones, reliable WiFi, and productivity apps that help streamline your workflow.

Experience The Shop Workspace for Yourself

Your kitchen table will still be there—but your best work might happen somewhere else. Whether you’re looking for a productive space for the day, part-time access to a professional work environment, or a full-time office with 24/7 access, The Shop has an option for you.
? Ready to give it a spin? Book a tour and free trial here.


Top Docs: Aviva Wo/Man

By From Our Partners

Renowned as two of Utah’s top experts in bio-identical hormone therapy, specialists Dana Hollopeter, APRN, and Bill Duehlmeier, APRN, bring unmatched expertise and a compassionate approach to every patient interaction at Aviva Wo/Man spa.

Using innovative evidence-based treatments, they begin each patient’s journey with a thorough consultation and detailed lab analysis to create customized hormone therapy plans. This approach addresses their patient’s specific needs and ensures treatments address symptoms to help them achieve a higher quality of life and long-term wellness.

“We specialize in treating hormone imbalances, menopause, weight management and intimate wellness. Our practice stands out for its personalized, whole-person wellness approach grounded in evidence-based medicine. In so doing, we empower our patients to look and feel their very best at every stage of life,” Hollopeter and Duehlmeier explain.

Beyond the treatment plans, their clinic does not operate on a commission-based model to reach sales goals, ensuring their patients receive recommendations tailored to their specific needs. “We take the time to listen, educate and empower our patients to make informed decisions about their health.”

With a strong focus on continued education, such as their rigorous advanced bio-identical certifications, they offer state-of-the-art advancements in hormone health, wellness therapies, and innovative treatments, ensuring cutting-edge care for their patients. 

Furthermore, their collaborative approaches ensure no detail is overlooked and every team member, from their Nurse Practitioners to front desk staff, plays an active role in creating a welcoming, supportive environment. Their goal is to guide patients toward sustainable wellness, reaching beyond symptom management. 

“Whether it’s hormone therapy, weight management or intimate health solutions, our team is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care. Our expertise sets us apart, making us a trusted resource for patients seeking real solutions for hormone imbalances.”

Aviva Wo/Man

999 E. Murray Holladay Rd., Millcreek
801.500.0919  |  avivawoman.com


Utah Sets the Standard in Exceptional Healthcare 

In this month’s Top Docs advertorials, we’re spotlighting the experts who keep us well, help us heal, and elevate our quality of life. Whether you’re searching for a specialist or curious about who’s shaping the future of wellness, this is your guide.

Top Docs: Sage Dermatology & Mohs Surgery

By From Our Partners

Dr. Angela Brimhall, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon is redefining skincare with a personalized approach that’s as educational as it is effective. As founder of Sage Dermatology, a cutting-edge practice launched in 2024, she blends advanced medical care with holistic-minded dermatology.

Initially starting medical school focused on family medicine, Dr. Brimhall discovered a passion for learning specialized topics in-depth. “During my rotations in medical school, I realized that my personality was better suited for specialty study. This led me to dermatology, where I found the perfect mix of diversity, surgery, cosmetics, and meaningful patient interactions,” Brimhall explains.

What sets this practice apart is not only the quality of care but also the accessibility and education provided. Same-day appointments with Brandon Mickelson, PA, make it easier than ever to get professional advice, whether you’re concerned about a mole or want to enhance your skincare regimen.

Beyond the clinic, Dr. Brimhall is a digital sensation as @TheHolisticDerm on TikTok, where her 35K+ followers tune in for skincare tips, myth-busting and her unique holistic perspective. Featured in Today.com, Allure, and Harper’s Bazaar, she uses her platform to inspire mindful skin health and wellness, particularly for people with limited access to healthcare.

“Through my online presence, I’ve amassed tens of thousands of followers, reaching
people with limited access to medical care, especially dermatology.”

Discover the future of skincare, where expertise meets empathy. Schedule your appointment today and join the conversation online to take control of your skin health because it’s more than care; it’s a commitment to you.

Sage Dermatology

11760 S. 700 EAST, DRAPER
801.882.9995  |  sagederm.net


Utah Sets the Standard in Exceptional Healthcare 

In this month’s Top Docs advertorials, we’re spotlighting the experts who keep us well, help us heal, and elevate our quality of life. Whether you’re searching for a specialist or curious about who’s shaping the future of wellness, this is your guide.

Philanthropy: Best Friends Animal Society

By From Our Partners

Best friends animal society looking to make no-kill 2025 a reality

This year is a big one for Best Friends Animal Society. Julie Castle, the organization’s CEO, calls 2025 the group’s “Super Bowl year.”

Having made incredible progress over the last 20-plus years, Castle and Best Friends believe they’re right on the doorstep of a monumental milestone. They’re aiming to achieve no-kill status at animal shelters nationwide in 2025.

“We’re at a tipping point,” Castle says. “When you think about non-profits, they have a lot of great causes but they don’t always have a cure. We have a solution. We know exactly how to do this and we can do it in our lifetime.”

Over the last four decades, Best Friends and its influence has grown tremendously. Castle has had a front-row seat for a while now, coming on board as Best Friends’ 17th employee in 1996, after deciding to join the organization on a whim. Nearly 30 years later, Best Friends has become a national leader in its mission to “save them all” —making the United States and its many animal shelters no-kill, meaning that 90% of cats and dogs coming into a shelter must be saved or placed in their forever homes.

Even Castle can’t believe how far they’ve come.

“In 2000, we declared to take Utah no-kill, and when we did that, 45,000 animals were dying each year. Now it’s down to 1,600,” she says, adding that 48 of the 59 animal shelters in the state are no-kill. “If you had told me that 20 years ago, I would have laughed at you.”

Best Friends Animal Society

5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kanab
435-688-2327 | bestfriends.org


We know Utahns love making a difference, so our 2025 Jan/Feb issue we are spotlighting some of the most impactful philanthropic endeavors from around our state. These are the folks that strengthen our communities, tackle tough issues and create lasting change. Find them all here.

Philanthropy: University of Utah

By From Our Partners

University of Utah’s Merit and Need-based scholarships make an impact for hardworking students

The gift of a college education can make a world of difference for many students in our state. Just ask Corbin Child, a freshman studying computer science at the University of Utah. After graduating from Weber Innovations High School, Corbin earned the For Utah Scholarship, a merit- and need-based scholarship backed by a donation from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Foundation.

For Corbin, it was the ultimate reward for righting the ship on his academic journey. Previously a 2.4 GPA student as a ninth grader, he buckled down and started taking his studies seriously. It paid off. As a senior, he scored a 3.98 GPA to bring his overall grade point average up to 3.2.

That, and his federal student aid qualification, made him a perfect fit for the For Utah Scholarship.

“It was really amazing,” he says of earning his scholarship. “I felt like all my work, studying, focusing on homework, had all paid off.”

Corbin works a part-time job, just to have a little bit of extra spending money, but is grateful for the boost he’s gotten from the scholarship. Not having to take out loans has been a huge relief. He says had it not been for the scholarship, he likely wouldn’t be attending the University of Utah, which was his number one choice after high school due to its best-of-state Data Science and Computer Science programs.

Scholarship opportunities like the For Utah Scholarship Corbin received are made possible by the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations who direct their philanthropy to help students in their pursuit of higher education at the University of Utah. 

Donors may establish a named scholarship at the University of Utah after themselves, a family member, or even their company. Scholarships may be endowed, which create a lasting legacy supporting students for years to come. Or, donors may provide annual scholarships that are awarded immediately to deserving students. 

Contact Maria Mullahi at maria.mullahi@admin.utah.edu to discuss scholarship-giving opportunities.

University of Utah

201 Presidents Circle, SLC
801-581-6825 | utah.edu


We know Utahns love making a difference, so our 2025 Jan/Feb issue we are spotlighting some of the most impactful philanthropic endeavors from around our state. These are the folks that strengthen our communities, tackle tough issues and create lasting change. Find them all here.