Elizabeth “Betsy” Cantwell, the president of Utah State University, is stepping down after only a year and a half at the helm. The Utah Board of Higher Education announced that Cantwell has accepted the position of president at Washington State University and will be starting there in April. Cantwell leaves behind a university embroiled in controversies, including allegations of a toxic culture in the football program and concerns over transgender students.
During her short tenure, Cantwell faced challenges with the athletic department and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Issues with a transgender student living in a dorm that aligns with their gender identity prompted legislation banning such arrangements. The president also had to navigate budget cuts to public higher education.
Cantwell’s departure adds to the turnover in leadership within Utah’s public universities in recent years. With Cantwell’s abrupt exit, Utah State University will soon be searching for a new president to lead the institution forward amidst ongoing challenges.
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