91¶ÌÊÓƵ

Purple bleeds brightly in the Stokes family

Spencer Stokes and his daughter, Jamie, share more than just the same last name. “Weber State is a family passion. While many people in Utah are typically BYU or U fans, we’ve always been Weber fans,” Jamie proudly stated.
 
A junior majoring in political science and French, Jamie is also a member of the Weber State track team. She was recently named the Big Sky women’s track athlete of the week — for the second time this season — when she broke the university’s record in the mile run.
 
Spencer graduated from 91¶ÌÊÓƵ in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He is the president of his own lobbying firm, Stokes Strategies L.L.C., is a member of 91¶ÌÊÓƵ’s National Advisory Council, and has previously served as the chief of staff for U.S. Sen. Mike Lee. Spencer recalls being around politics since he was young.
 
“My dad was actively involved in Box Elder County politics. I began by volunteering on county commission races in Box Elder in the ’80s,” Spencer said.  
 
On choosing to come to Weber State like her father, Jamie said, “There were cool things happening at Weber that I wanted to be a part of. I knew my degree would serve me well, like it has my dad. He’s been involved in politics for as long as I can remember — he was a part of the Weber County Commission when I was born. It’s been fun to be able to talk to my dad for advice.”
 
Spencer reflects on his Weber State experience graciously. “I always had really great professors,” he said. “One of them, Dr. Rod Julander, really taught me the practical side of politics. It’s one thing to read about it in a textbook it’s another to be involved in it. The professors at Weber allow you to be a part of the discussion in class.
 
“My hope for Weber State students is that they’ll actually try to get involved. That they’ll go out and make a difference in politics.” 
 
Jamie currently serves as a student member on the board for the Olene S. Walker Institute of Politics & Public Service and is an intern for U.S. Rep. Rob Bishop at his Ogden office.
 
“I hope to eventually be a political science professor,” Jamie said. “I’ve always really liked school and really liked the political science faculty at Weber. I want to do for other students what they’ve done for me.”
 
Jamie’s two older siblings also attended and graduated from Weber — one in family studies, another in political science. Spencer said, “It [politics] was a regular discussion in the home.”
 
Jamie has always admired her father. “I have really loved watching my dad throughout his political career. He has passions for both politics and Weber. He’s always been an advocate for Weber, and as he’s continued in his career, he’s never forgotten where he’s come from. He always comes back.”
 
Spencer and Jamie agree there is a unique, valuable experience to be had at Weber. Spencer said, “There’s not a more beautiful setting. There’s not a better community to be a part of.”
 
Jamie is grateful she still has time to enjoy her Weber experience. “Having a year left, I’ve really been reflecting on my experience. I’m confident I couldn’t have gotten that experience anywhere else. It’s been hands on and unique. I have met so many great people and had great opportunities. I feel fortunate that I came to Weber State.”