A restructured admissions team at Utah State University Eastern is preparing to welcome new students following leadership changes that began during the summer of 2025. Led by Assistant Director of Recruitment Kevin van der Spek, the team is focusing on building personal relationships with prospective students and local high schools to drive enrollment growth.
The admissions team at USU Eastern consists of three members who are all alumni of the university. This firsthand experience is intended to help students and families navigate the educational journey with confidence, according to Utah State University.
Kevin van der Spek, who serves as an admissions specialist and the team leader, said the goal is to ensure outreach is clear, supportive, and accessible. Zoey Howa, a new admissions specialist originally from Texas, noted that the university's combination of statewide opportunities and a close-knit campus community makes it an ideal environment for students.
Admissions Specialist Sam Bradley emphasized the importance of helping students realize that college is a viable option for them. Bradley advised prospective students to visit campuses and explore degree programs to find the right fit.
In a prior effort to increase engagement, the recruiting team saw success with the Friends of Eastern busing initiative. This program brought more than 70 additional students to Academics Day through donated funds, according to a 2025 report from the university.
The recruitment strategy focuses on addressing the specific motivations of students in both urban and rural areas. The team utilizes various methods to reach prospective students, including social media marketing, community engagement, and custom campus tours.
Van der Spek acknowledged that the team faces challenges, including a growing public skepticism regarding the value of higher education. To combat this, the team is committed to continuous engagement and clear communication regarding the benefits of a degree.
USU Eastern offers several pathways for students, including open enrollment for Associate and Certificate degrees at the Price and Blanding campuses. These programs do not require a minimum high school GPA or ACT/SAT scores.
For students seeking Bachelor's degrees, admission is test-optional, though ACT/SAT scores may still be considered. The university maintains specific GPA requirements for different admission statuses, noting that students with a GPA below 1.99 may be eligible for admission to open campuses in Price and Blanding via alternative pathways.
Scheduling and Deadlines
Students looking to connect with the admissions team can schedule appointments in person or virtually via phone or Zoom. The One Stop Student Services office at the Price Campus provides support for these inquiries.
Upcoming deadlines for USU Eastern include a final deadline of June 26 for summer scholarships and a final deadline of January 13 for spring admissions.
