The stories that shape us: Memories of Boise State University’s past

Alumni look back on their favorite moments from their time at Boise State

In 1932, the 70 students at Boise Junior College chose a mascot and colors for their brand new school. They became the Broncos, proudly wearing blue and orange.

Those students had no idea that their decision would make a lasting impact on what Boise State University is today. 

“University history is something that brings everybody together,” said Cheryl Ostreicher, Head of Special Collections and Archives. “There are lots of people who have connections to campus, and the more people think about our history, the more connected they feel to the school.”

Every student at Boise State University throughout its 93 years of existence has played a role in shaping its history.S

“Everything on campus has changed and grown so much since we were there,” said Randy Deyton, Boise State alumnus of the Class of 2001.

Deyton and his wife, Deb, who graduated in 2003, carry their Bronco pride with them two decades later. The couple are lifetime Alumni Association members and make an effort to catch as many Boise State football games as possible, despite now living in Oregon.

Randy and Deb Deyton married young and attended Boise State together. Randy worked at the Pavilion, now known as the ExtraMile Arena. The couple spent weekends cheering on the Broncos, and it’s no wonder the pair remain lifelong supporters of Boise State Athletics.

“What’s not to love about Boise State football?” Randy Deyton said. “Look at some of the teams we’ve played and beaten while always being the underdogs. [The Broncos are] always impressing everyone, over and over again.”

The Deytons recalled walking up 98 steps to reach their season-ticket seats, always prepared to cheer on the Broncos win or lose, rain or shine.

“We always stayed until the end of the game, no matter what,” Randy Deyton said. 

They even once attempted to take a piece of Boise State history home with them after a game.

“The Alumni Association left this huge banner that said ‘Welcome Alumni and Friends,’” Deb Deyton said. “We had pictures next to it, and then they left it there. So we were like, ‘finders keepers.’”

Though they eventually had to return the banner, the couple still laughs about the memory today.

Aside from their love for Boise State football, the Deytons said they value their educational experiences at Boise State University just as much.

“When you graduate from Boise State, you’ll be able to argue either side of any point,” Randy Deyton said. “You have enough knowledge about things to do that. As far as learning to think critically, it was a very good education.”

“We feel very well-rounded having gotten our degrees there,” Deb Deyton added. “Having been educated at a university like Boise State is a real honor. It’s a badge of pride for me.”

Tyler Anderson, who graduated in 1999, and his wife, Andrea, who graduated in 2006, also cherish their memories from their time at Boise State University. 

“I had really great experiences in the Criminal Justice program,” Tyler Anderson said. “There were a lot of great opportunities there.”

Anderson fondly remembers watching the football program grow during his time as a student.

“It was memorable because it was new, growing and reaching the Division I level,” he said. “It’s grown so much. Now, we have season tickets. Even my 81-year-old grandmother has started following Boise State football.”

Andrea Anderson’s favorite memories as a student come from her work-study job in the History department.

“I was really interested in it and got to know my professors really well,” Andrea Anderson said. “The work-study jobs, if you can get them, are a great resource.”

Andrea and Tyler Anderson’s son, Jackson, is now starting his first year at Boise State, and they say they’re excited for him to have his own memorable experiences.

Tyler Anderson expressed disbelief at how much Boise State has changed over the 26 years since he attended the university. 

“We can’t believe how much the campus has expanded, and [how] the opportunities and programs have changed and grown,” he said. “It’s really exciting.”

Just like those first 70 students at Boise Junior College, today’s students may not realize the role they play in shaping Boise State University’s legacy. Their experiences here add to the story of the university. 

Oestreicher encourages students to document their time at Boise State through pictures and keepsakes, reminding them that even their smallest moments will one day make meaningful memories.

“Seeing yourself as part of that history can make your experience more meaningful,” Ostreicher said.  “You’re here, you go to class, you’re busy, and everyone has a different experience, but that history is what unites everybody.”