Dear Neighbors and Friends,
Throughout my first year serving as president at Utah Tech University, I have had the opportunity to listen, learn, and experience the heart behind this community. What has impressed me the most is the shared belief that Utah Tech is not only a place of higher education but also a catalyst for opportunity, innovation, and community strength.
In my time at Utah Tech, we have advanced our “active learning. active life.” approach to education in tangible ways. We reaffirmed our commitment to being Utah’s most affordable university while expanding meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students to graduate career-ready.
We have deepened partnerships with industry leaders to ensure our academic programs align with workforce needs and regional opportunities. In fact, we have reinforced our role as an economic engine for Southern Utah and continued to embed the university with local industry. We are also strengthening our partnerships with local school districts in Washington and Kane counties, reinforcing pathways for students through initiatives such as concurrent enrollment. Utah Tech is not just located in Southern Utah—we are part of it. Our students learn here, serve here, and build their futures here.
Specifically, we built new philanthropic partnerships in the past year, including a transformative seven million–dollar gift that is expanding educational opportunities, enhancing the student experience, and investing in the future of Southern Utah. Additionally, we opened the General Classroom Building, which is full of collaborative spaces and serves as the cornerstone of a Utah Tech education.
While I am proud of what we have accomplished in one year, I am even more excited about what lies ahead. We are charting a meaningful path forward that prioritizes student success, academic excellence, and meaningful community impact.
I continue to marvel at what a special place Southern Utah is, and I know its strength and character come from the people who live here. Thank you for welcoming me so warmly and believing in the power of higher education to transform lives and strengthen communities. It is a privilege to serve as the president of Utah Tech University, and I look forward to continuing this important work together.
With gratitude and optimism,
Shane B. Smeed
Utah Tech University President