Crimson Club Magazine - April 2023

Donor Spotlight

America First Credit Union Helps Utes with Wings Soar Program benefiting Utah women’s athletics was the recipient of a $100,000 donation from AFCU during U Giving Day

values,” Gallegos said. “It is an honor to be associated with this program.” Gallegos’ time with the board has also helped her formulate some ideas on how America First can expand its role with Utah Athletics in developing men and women student-athletes in the near future and sharing their stories. “Being a part of this community means being able to support and help people succeed in life as a part of their team,” Gallegos said. “Our team is here to serve our members and educate them when it comes to finances and their financial goals. We are capable of doing that with the athletes at the U so they can focus on their studies and on their sport, knowing their finances are

in good hands with America First Credit Union. “There are so many great stories to tell about the individuals and teams at the University of Utah,” Gallegos continued. “Our hope is that we can help create ways for those stories to be shared to a larger audience. As the individuals and teams continue to succeed, we want to be a connection point between those achieving great heights in their sport and the community that is supporting them.” Ute women’s athletics is enjoying one of its best years with skiing winning a fourth consecutive NCAA title, cross country finishing as the Pac-12 runner-up and placing 12th at nationals, women’s basketball capturing its first-ever Pac-12

title and advancing to the NCAA Sweet 16, and women’s gymnastics winning its third consecutive Pac-12 Championship and going to nationals for the 47th straight year. “Seeing the success of the women’s programs in recent years is fantastic and knowing that our contributions are a part of that success is very rewarding,” Gallegos said. “We appreciate all the work of the athletes, coaches, support staff and know that is ultimately the key to the program’s success.” Gallegos said. “We appreciate all the work of the athletes, coaches, support staff and know that is ultimately the key to the program’s success.

difference in its members’ lives. Supporting Utes with Wings has provided America First an avenue to achieve that. “This program has a direct connection to personal development and growth,” Gallegos pointed out. “We strive to find ways to assist our members in achieving their goals in life, and being there to educate and guide them along that path is an important part of our relationship. Partnering with Utes with Wings gives America First Credit Union the ability to support female athletes, which in turn allows us an opportunity to develop the next generation of female leaders and contributors in our community.” Gallegos is a member of the Utes With Wings board, which has allowed her to work with others who advocate for the needs of backing student-athletes and, in particular, those who are committed to supporting female athletes, coaches, and athletic programs at the University of Utah. “Serving on the Utes with Wings board has provided me with valuable leadership experience, networking opportunities, and the chance to connect with other women who share similar interests and

When Utah Athletics established Utes with Wings as a way for donors to provide additional resources to women’s athletics programs, America First Credit Union got involved early on as a supporter. That affiliation has continued over the years as America First stepped up once again during U Giving Day 2023 to contribute $100,000 to the program. Tammy Gallegos, the Executive Vice President, and Chief Strategic Engagement Officer for America First Credit Union, explains that the company’s involvement with Utes with Wings is a natural fit. “America First Credit Union is committed to supporting women in their pursuit of athletic excellence,” Gallegos said. “Female athletes promote a culture of teamwork, leadership,

and perseverance, which are important values in both sports and business. By partnering with the Utes with Wings program, America First Credit Union can help to develop the next generation of female leaders and contribute to the development of the local community.” The mission of Utes with Wings is to elevate women’s athletics programs at the U and foster personal development. Thanks to the support of America First Credit Union, personal improvements are all things Utes with Wings has made possible in recent years. Beyond ensuring the financial well-being of its members, one of the missions of America First Credit Union is to serve the community and make a development workshops, team retreats and facility

Utes with Wings Brings in over $121,000 for U Giving Day

As U Giving Day 2023 has come to a close, Utah Athletics would like to say thank you to everyone who contributed for their generous support of our women’s athletics programs. During the 1850-minute campus-wide fundraising event Marc8 28-29, you helped us raise $121,225 for Utes with Wings! We want to extend a special thank you to America First Credit Union for contributing our lead gift of $100,000. Donations came in from Crimson Club members, Ute fans and alumni from all across the United States and Canada. We had over 40 students come by to see our Crimson Club staff and donate during the U’s Philanthropy Fair. Your donations will continue to enhance the experience of our female student-athletes and financially support numerous areas of need for all of our women’s programs. Facility improvements, team retreats and personal development workshops are all things that have been made possible through this

program in recent years. If you missed U Giving Day but still wish to contribute to Utes with Wings, the giving page is still available for you below.

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CRIMSON CLUB MAGAZINE APRIL 2023

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