After 50 years of sharing performing arts with the Ogden community, the Val A. Browning Center for Performing Arts celebrated with cake and a host of talented former Wildcats. Some offered advice to students and their thoughts on the importance of arts in the community, while others celebrated Ogden and how its citizens have helped strengthen the Browning Center and performing arts at Weber State University.

Professor Jim Christian, chair of the celebration committee, said, “We’re proud and humbled to be able to point at people like (the performers) and say that’s what this institution is about, helping people find their core talent, their bliss and be able to go out and do this for a living.”

Ta’u Pupu’a, former WSU football player turned opera star, encouraged students to continue their education, even when others say they can’t or they are not good enough.

“Keep going and set your goals high,” Pupu’a said. “Keep the faith and have courage to move forward.”