The 11th Extraordinary Session of the Utah State Legislature convened on August 17, 2022, with a focus on recognizing significant community contributions. The meeting commenced with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the Bennion Center, which celebrated its 35th anniversary of service.
The session was led by a member of the legislature who expressed gratitude for the Bennion Center's impactful work in the community. The speaker shared personal connections to the center, highlighting its history and the legacy of its founder, Lowell Bennion, who was known for his dedication to community engagement and service.
Several notable individuals associated with the Bennion Center were introduced, including past and current board members and staff. The speaker emphasized the center's mission to inspire and mobilize individuals to strengthen communities through various initiatives, including community service projects, advocacy, and educational programs.
Following the introductions, the reading clerk presented a formal citation recognizing the Bennion Center's contributions. The citation detailed the center's establishment in 1987 and its role in supporting thousands of students each year through diverse programs that promote community engagement, social justice, and inclusion. It noted the center's impressive record of over 140,000 hours of community service contributed by students.
The meeting concluded with a formal commendation from the Utah State Legislature, celebrating the Bennion Center's 35 years of dedicated service and honoring the efforts of all those involved in its mission. This recognition underscores the importance of community engagement and the positive impact of organizations like the Bennion Center in fostering collaboration and support within the community.