Pete Sands, a Weber State University alumnus, was recognized as a 2020 Time Magazine Guardian of the Year for his leadership in providing aid to the Navajo Nation during the pandemic. Sands, who grew up in Montezuma Creek, Utah, credits his early education and time spent in the Whitehorse High School library for preparing him for large-scale humanitarian efforts.
While serving as communications director for the Utah Navajo Health System (UNHS), Sands established a COVID-19 relief fund to assist those facing health challenges, including respiratory and heart problems. Under his leadership, UNHS formed partnerships that allowed for the delivery of food to 4,000 households every week.
Sands focused on providing healthy food options, specifically avoiding soda and candy. The relief efforts also included the distribution of water, face masks, hand sanitizer, diapers, and formula. Through partnerships with the Utah Trucking Association and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3 million pounds of firewood were delivered to residents via truckload.
Before his work in healthcare communications, Sands had a diverse career involving music, film, and construction. He performed as a solo acoustic musician across the West and worked on the television series Yellowstone after being contacted by writer and director Taylor Sheridan. Sands also collaborated with Sheridan on rehab services for horses.
Sands attributed much of his success to the encouragement of Weber State professors who supported his various interests in criminal justice, business, and the arts.
Following the pandemic, Sands intends to refocus his efforts on music, songwriting, and filmmaking. He is currently working on a documentary and panel presentations regarding the issue of missing and murdered indigenous women on Indian reservations.
