During its June 6, 2025, meeting, the Utah Board of Higher Education unanimously reappointed Amanda Covington to serve as chair of the Board for a second term. The Board also selected Jon Cox to serve as vice chair, succeeding Steve Neeleman, who has chosen to dedicate more time and focus on the important work of the Utah State University presidential search, while continuing to serve as an active and valued Board member.
Chair Covington was first appointed as chair in 2023, following the reconstitution of the Board to 10 members. She brings extensive experience in strategic communications and public affairs, as well as a deep commitment to public higher education and workforce alignment. Covington currently serves as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer for The Larry H. Miller Company and has previously held leadership roles with Vista Outdoor Inc., ATK (now Northrop Grumman), and the Office of the Utah Governor.
“I’m honored to continue serving as chair during such an important time for Utah higher education,” said Covington. “Our colleges and universities are navigating change with purpose, focused on affordability, value and meeting the evolving needs of students and our state. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues on the Board to continue driving that momentum.”
Jon Cox, the newly appointed vice chair, joins the Board’s leadership with a background in government, public affairs and higher education. He previously served as a member of the Utah House of Representatives and held senior staff roles for Utah Governor Gary Herbert and former U.S. Senator Bob Bennett. He previously worked as an assistant professor of history at Snow College, where he served as a member of the college’s Faculty Senate.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as vice chair,” said Jon Cox. “In Utah, we need more nurses, more engineers, more electricians, and in general, a more skilled workforce. At a time when higher education is under increased scrutiny nationwide, we are fortunate to live in a state that prioritizes a thriving system of higher education. Over the past two years on the Board, I’ve seen firsthand how a college education can open doors for individuals and strengthen communities. I look forward to continuing this important work alongside my colleagues.”
The Utah Board of Higher Education is the governing body for the Utah System of Higher Education. The Utah Legislature grants it the power to control, oversee and regulate USHE. The Board’s major responsibilities include selecting and evaluating institutional presidents, setting policy, reviewing programs and degrees, approving institutional missions and submitting a unified higher education budget request to the Governor and State Legislature. The Utah Board of Higher Education is comprised of 10 Utah citizens, all appointed by the Governor, including one student member. Nine of the members are appointed to six-year staggered terms, while the student Board member is appointed to a one-year term.
