The Utah Board of Higher Education appointed Alan L. Smith, Ph.D., as interim president of Utah State University in a public meeting on February 12, 2025, and announced it will launch a comprehensive search for the next president. Incoming Interim President Smith has been with USU since 2021 and currently serves as dean of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services.

The appointment follows current USU President Elizabeth R. Cantwell’s announcement that she has accepted a new position as president of Washington State University.

“I am honored to serve Utah State University in this interim role and to support our students, faculty and staff during this transition,” said Smith. “USU is a remarkable institution with a strong legacy of excellence in research, teaching and community engagement. I look forward to working closely with campus and system leaders to ensure stability and continued momentum as the search for the next president moves forward.”

Smith was the first to hold an endowed deanship in the college and at Utah State University. He is widely recognized for his research on peer relationships in physical activity settings and the role of sport in youth development. The National Institute of Mental Health and the U.S. Department of Education, among others, have funded his work. Prior to joining USU, he held leadership roles at Michigan State University and Purdue University and is a Fellow of the National Academy of Kinesiology. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Rochester, a Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a Ph.D. in Exercise and Movement Science from the University of Oregon.

“Alan Smith is a dedicated leader with a deep commitment to Utah State University, its research mission and its role as the state’s land grant institution,” said Amanda Covington, Utah Board of Higher Education chair. “His background as a scholar, administrator and advocate for research makes him well-prepared to lead USU through this transition. We’re grateful for his willingness to step into this interim role and ensure continuity and collaboration while we conduct a search for the next president. We also extend our gratitude to President Cantwell for her service.”

Smith will return to his role as dean of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services once a new president is appointed.