The Utah System of Higher Education reaffirmed its commitment to students, academic excellence, and public accountability by signing a historic joint resolution. USHE leaders, joined by the state’s college and university presidents, Governor Spencer J. Cox, Senate President Stuart Adams, and House Speaker Mike Schultz, signed the resolution at the Utah State Capitol on Jan. 23, 2026.
Utah students are at the center of this resolution, with state leaders committing to “keep higher education affordable, accessible, and focused on impactful outcomes—preparing graduates to think critically and independently, thrive in the workforce, and strengthen their families, communities, and our state.”
USHE Commissioner Geoffrey Landward says this resolution sets a national standard for how higher education and state leadership can work together to support students and the state’s future.
“This resolution reflects our shared commitment to making higher education in Utah more affordable and nimble to meet the real-world needs of Utah’s students, families, and employers,” Utah Board of Higher Education Chair Amanda Covington said, adding that the resolution can serve both as a local and national model.
USHE and the Utah Board of Higher Education are grateful to institutional presidents, Governor Cox, and members of the legislature for their leadership and participation in signing the resolution.
Read the full Resolution on Higher Education.
