Utah Tech University honors Laura Atwood for support of science, technology initiatives

In recognition of Laura Atwood’s continuous support of Utah Tech University’s College of Science, Engineering & Technology, the university recently unveiled the new names of three campus spaces in her honor.

Located in the university’s Science, Engineering & Technology Building, the Lindsay and Laura Atwood Genomics Lab, Lindsay and Laura Atwood Zebrafish HQ and Atwood Conference Room were named in recognition of Atwood and her late husband, Lindsay’s, passion for supporting active learning experiences.

“Laura Atwood has been instrumental in elevating Utah Tech University’s genomics program,” Aaron Davis, interim dean of UT’s College of Science, Engineering & Technology, said. “Her dedication to student-centered learning, research and collaboration has left a lasting mark on our college. Through her leadership and innovative spirit, she has expanded opportunities for our students and positioned Utah Tech as a hub for cutting-edge genomic education. We are deeply grateful for her contributions and proud to celebrate the legacy she has built here.”

The Lindsay and Laura Atwood Genomics Lab and the Lindsay and Laura Atwood Zebrafish HQ are part of the university’s Center for Precision Medicine and Functional Genomics, which uses zebrafish to research gene variants underpinning human disease because the species shares 70 percent of its genes with humans.

The Atwoods have been long-time supporters of Utah Tech. Their support and passion for education helped make possible the development of UT’s Atwood Innovation Plaza, Southern Utah’s premier business development pipeline. Recognizing Utah Tech’s commitment to hands-on learning, the Atwoods envisioned a space for innovation and technology to come together, where students and community members could learn, grow and turn ideas into businesses.

To learn more about Utah Tech University’s College of Science, Engineering & Technology, visit colleges.utahtech.edu/science and to learn more about the resources available through Atwood Innovation Plaza, visit innovation.utahtech.edu.