A Night of Recognizing our Successful Alumni

There are a lot of great traditions at Utah Tech, but D-Week has a way of bringing out the best of the best, and this year’s Alumni Awards Night on April 11, 2026, was no exception.

Four outstanding alumni were recognized for their achievements, their leadership, and their impact. These alumni are not just hugely successful in their careers, but also in the communities they serve.

Let’s meet them.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Scott & Mark Gubler

If you’ve spent any time in Southern Utah, you’ve likely felt the ripple effects of Scott and Mark Gubler’s work, even if you didn’t realize it.

Over the past four decades, the Gubler brothers have grown Deseret Laboratories Inc. into one of the largest contract manufacturers of pharmaceutical and dietary products in the Western United States. Scott serves as founder, president, and CEO, while Mark leads as owner, COO, and CFO, a sibling duo that clearly figured out how to make group projects work.

Their deep roots in Southern Utah and strong connection to Utah Tech have translated into meaningful contributions to the region’s economic and manufacturing landscape. They’ve helped shape an industry, create opportunities, and strengthen the community along the way.

Distinguished Alumni Award: Wendy Stokes Horman

Some people build careers. Others build change. Wendy Stokes Horman has done both.

The distinguished alumni award is intended to highlight a UT alumni that is distinguished, passionate and dedicated to their craft, and Wendy is exactly that.

Currently serving as a Director in the Office of Child Care for the Administration for Children & Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Wendy has dedicated her career to advocating for education, fiscal responsibility, and government transparency.

Her influence stretches across boards, councils, and initiatives, including founding and chairing the Idaho Energy & Technology Caucus. Along the way, she’s earned recognition as Idaho Business Review’s Woman of the Year and EdTech Advocate of the Year.

But beyond the titles and accolades, Wendy represents something bigger: the power of thoughtful leadership rooted in service. She embodies what it means to not just participate in systems but improve them.

Rising Alumni Award: Macrae Heppler

Not all legacies take decades to build. Some start right after graduation.

Macrae Heppler, a 2013 graduate, is a perfect example of what it looks like to hit the ground running…and keep going. He helped launch the Southern Utah branch of Eagle Gate Title, guiding real estate transactions and contributing to the region’s growth.

But if you’ve scrolled social media in Southern Utah, you might know him for something else: his video series, “What’s Happening in Southern Utah.” It’s become a go-to source for updates on economic development and community growth in Washington County, making him not just a participant in the community, but a storyteller for it.

And when he’s not working or creating content, Macrae continues to give back through involvement with organizations like the Utah Tech University Foundation Board and the Trailblazer Club.

In short: Macrae has proven consistency and quality work pays off.

Thank You

The Alumni Awards aren’t just about recognizing success, they’re about showcasing what’s possible after Utah Tech.

From building industries to shaping policy to strengthening communities, this year’s honorees remind us that impact comes in many forms.

Here’s to the alumni who continue to represent Utah Tech in the best way possible by doing the work, lifting others, and leaving things better than they found them.