Utah Tech University Welcomes New President Amid Transformative Times
Shane Smeed has been appointed as the 19th president of Utah Tech University (UTU), beginning his tenure on May 1, coinciding with the school’s graduation ceremony. Smeed, previously president of Park University in Missouri, is stepping into his role during a period of significant change in Utah’s higher education landscape.
Since its inception as the St. George Stake Academy, UTU has evolved from Dixie State College to its current status, experiencing a nearly 60% enrollment growth since 2013, now boasting over 13,000 students. As Utah’s most affordable university, UTU attracts 82% of its students from within the state.
Smeed views recent legislation, such as HB265, not as a threat but as an opportunity for reinvestment in education, aiming to align academic programs with workforce needs. Committed to community engagement, he intends to build strong relationships with students and faculty, emphasizing the importance of liberal arts alongside practical programs.
With UTU also advancing its athletic programs to NCAA Division I, Smeed is focused on enhancing competitiveness and community support. As a native of Utah, he brings a passion for fostering student success and development in a rapidly evolving educational environment.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
