1. Where are you currently employed? I am a retired professor from Georgia Southern University. I currently serve as CEO
of Southern University Press, a printing company I have been operating for the past
42 years; printing over 500 books and lab manuals for the University.
2. What are your hobbies? I love to collect coins. I got interested in coin collecting back in 1951. At the
time, I was chauffeuring the Snow College basketball team to their away games (the
team didn’t have a bus and I was only one of a few on campus who had a vehicle), and
I decided to take the team to dinner after one of their games in Saint George. The
fancy meal was only $3 a person! To pay for the meal, I saved some silver dollars
from a slot machine. Since then, I have been saving Morgan silver dollars and other
coins, such as the Canadian leaf coins.
I also enjoy photography, gardening and traveling. My travels have taken me all over
Europe, Scandinavia, South America, and Mexico. While serving in the military, I was
deployed to places such as Japan and Hawaii. In addition to travelling the world,
I have visited 50 states in the U.S.; from New York to California and Georgia to Denver.
3. How did Snow College contribute to your accomplishments? I was introduced to Snow College by a friend. One day, my friend convinced me to
go to school with him at Snow College and participate in an activity on the lawn behind
the Noyes Building. Everyone was so friendly, and it was such a nice place that I
decided to sign up for classes. I graduated from Snow College with my business administration
degree in 1951. While serving in the military, I worked for the CIA as a psychological
instructor. After the Korean war ended in 1953, I moved up to intelligence headquarters
and worked with war plans, U2’s and U1’s photography, and spy missions for the Far
East.
Having a degree from Snow College helped me in all aspects of my life. I was able
to find successful jobs and eventually get into the printing business. After my military
service, I continued my education at the University of Northern Colorado where I received
my bachelor’s degree in printing management. After graduating, I taught at various
schools in California, New York and Georgia.
4. What is your most memorable moment at Snow College? I enjoyed the dances and games at Snow College. I also enjoyed going to the dance
hall in Moroni. One quarter, while I worked on the railroad as a relief machinist,
I had to travel almost 50 miles to get to Mr. Bird’s class by 9:00 a.m.; after I had
worked through the night. One day, I didn’t have time to change and I walked into
class with my railroad attire on: overalls, a red handkerchief around my neck, keys
hanging off my thigh, and a large railroad pocket watch on a chain. Everyone in the
class laughed so hard!
Another memorable moment was when I bought a car and didn’t get the color that I
wanted. I was told that the automotive department at Snow College could paint it black.
I talked to the teacher, Mr. Carpenter, and he said “Yeah, but people have to pay
ahead of time.” It was only $38! I couldn’t resist the good offer so I immediately
pulled out my wallet and said, “I’ll pay you now!” They did a great job painting and
I loved my new black car.
5. What additional information would you like for other alumni to know about you? I am interested in reaching out to my fellow classmates (1950-1952). Anyone who would
like to reach me can call or email the Advancement Office for my contact information:
435-283-7060;
ude.wons@inmula
If you would like to be highlighted, or know someone who would, please contact the
Advancement Office by phone: 435-283-7060 or email: ude.wons@inmula .
