On October 1, the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law hosted its first annual Tailgate and Social Event in the College of Law courtyard. About 250 students, alumni, faculty, staff, as well as families and other supporters, gathered to celebrate the U’s first-ever Pac-12 home game, and to enjoy complimentary tacos, burritos, tortas and cold drinks provided by mobile food vendors and the College of Law.
Although the Utes lost to the Washington Huskies, 31-14, the disappointing outcome failed to dim attendees’ glowing assessment of the event.
“It exceeded even our high expectations,” said Dean Hiram Chodosh. “With only three weeks of planning, our capable staff organized an event that we look forward to growing in coming years. People are already asking about next year’s tailgate party, and we are happy to report that planning is already underway for an even bigger, more festive event that will once again allow us to host current students, a well as graduates and supporters, as we gather together to renew or make friendships and support our football program.”
Matthew Hemsley, the College of Law’s Executive Director for Institutional Development, played a key role in organizing the gathering. He encouraged alumni and others who are interested in attending future events to provide the College of Law with a permanent email address. “By the following morning I had heard from two different graduates who were disappointed that they missed the Tailgate party. However, we didn’t have their current email and so we were unable to invite them. Our goal is to contact everyone who might be interested, and they only way we can do that is if we have a current contact information.”
This year’s event began at 3:00 p.m., two hours before kickoff for the game. Those fortunate enough to have secured tickets came early and left in time to locate their seats at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Others were able to watch the broadcast game on big-screen TVs in the Sutherland Moot Courtroom and the Gibson Reading Room.
The event was co-sponsored by the Salt Lake County Bar and the College of Law’s Sports Law Club.
