By Kylee Boyter
Kboyter@cherryroad.com

The Snow College Richfield campus has experienced remarkable growth and development in recent years. Alongside a surge in student enrollment, the campus has expanded its in-person class offerings and secured on-campus housing, creating a thriving academic environment.

Walking through the halls of the Washburn Building, one encounters a student body engaged in various programs, including technical education, nursing, cosmetology, and general education. The campus is bustling with activity, reflecting its dynamic and welcoming atmosphere.

Since the 2023-2024 school year, in-person enrollment at the Richfield campus has risen significantly. As of Wednesday, Feb. 5, the number of in-person students has grown from Spring 2024 enrollment of 260 to an impressive 331 in Spring 2025 enrollment.

With this expansion, the demand for student leadership has increased, leading to a more engaging and welcoming campus experience. Student leaders play a pivotal role in shaping campus activities, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring that student voices are heard.

Student leadership at Snow College Richfield

The student leadership structure on the Richfield campus is divided into four key areas:

•Student Body Association (SBA) – Similar to Student Body Officers, this group oversees student engagement.

•Ambassadors – Representing the college, these students assist with outreach and recruitment.

•Residence Assistants – Supporting students living in on-campus housing.

•Club Leadership Officers – Leading student-run organizations and clubs.

Vice President of SBA Richfield, Porter Wright, shared his perspective on the value of student leadership:

“One of the best parts of joining student leadership on the Richfield campus has been making connections with new people,” said Wright. “I moved here from out of state, but was quickly given the opportunity to get involved, meet others, and create lifelong friendships.”

Originally from Jerome, Idaho, Wright came to Snow College Richfield as a member of the wrestling team. He also highlighted the financial benefits of student leadership.

“Being a leader on campus has removed part of the financial burden for me,” Wright explained. “The scholarship helps you not have to stress about finances as well as academics, and in some cases like mine, athletics as well. There is also the benefit of activities, retreats, and leadership experiences.”

A strong community and career-ready education

JT Carter, a machine tool student and Technical Education Senator, reflected on his transition from Richfield High School to Snow College Richfield.

“I have liked the community on campus, the small class sizes, and the education is ideal for my needs,” Carter said. “I highly recommend local students attend Snow Richfield because it is very affordable, you can live at home, and the trade programs are excellent.”

Carter’s program prepares students for well-paying jobs, with starting wages averaging $25 per hour. The machine tool program is also highly sought for the ability to earn a certificate in as little as two semesters.

Despite the resources available, Carter noted a common misconception about the campus.

“I think a lot of the community thinks that this campus is only the Sevier Valley Center (SVC),” he said. “We are much more than just an event center. Snow Richfield is a full college campus with everything students need.”

Local students take advantage of Snow Richfield’s opportunities

SBA Programming and Marketing representatives Calina Magleby, Saige Christensen, and Micarra Christensen emphasized the benefits of attending Snow College Richfield.

“It is so beneficial to save money on housing by living at home while earning your associate degree,” Magleby said. “It’s the same associate degree as anywhere else, easily transferable, and can help with transfer scholarships.”

Micarra Christensen highlighted how the campus provides real-world experience. “People don’t realize the potential Snow College, specifically Snow Richfield, has,” she said. “I’ve gotten an on-campus job that helps train me for my future career in marketing, giving me hands-on experience.”

Saige Christensen echoed this sentiment.”I feel that the Richfield campus is a hidden gem,” she said. “I didn’t know how much Snow Richfield had to offer until I was here.”

A small-town atmosphere with big opportunities

Ambassador Ansley Staley, a cosmetology student from Emery High School, found that Snow Richfield’s close-knit community felt familiar.

“I like the small-town community, which is similar to where I grew up,” Staley said. “When I was looking for a college, I learned about the Snow College Ambassador scholarship.”

She recalled how impactful meeting Ambassadors during high school visits was and shared how she enjoys connecting with others on campus.

“I highly recommend attending Snow College because of the connections you make – it’s like a family on the Richfield campus. We are all so close-knit and support one another,” Staley said.

Your future starts at Snow College Richfield

No matter your passions, academic goals, or career aspirations, Snow College Richfield provides an excellent foundation. With valuable education, leadership opportunities, resume-building experiences, and lifelong friendships, the campus offers a unique and enriching college experience.

Students interested in attending Snow College should apply by March 1 to be eligible for academic scholarships.

For those interested in student leadership opportunities:

•Ambassadors: Contact Jacie Dyreng at jacie.dyreng@snow.edu

•Student Body Association and Club Leadership Officers: Contact Erin Thompson at erin.thompson@snow.edu

•Residential Assistants: Email richfield@snow.edu