The Utah Board of Higher Education appointed Leslie Durham, Ph.D., as interim president of Weber State University and Kent Thygerson, MBA, as interim president of Tooele Technical College at its Executive Committee meeting today.
Durham will assume the role on Nov. 10, 2025. She currently serves as provost and senior vice president of academic affairs at Weber State University and brings over 15 years of experience in higher education leadership. She previously held roles at Boise State University, including dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, where she focused on improving student success, increasing research expenditures, launching new academic programs and stabilizing the college’s financial position amidst fiscal and political challenges. Other leadership roles at Boise State University include founding director, School of the Arts and associate dean, College of Arts and Sciences.
“I am honored to serve as interim president of Weber State University during this transition,” said Durham. “Weber State is a remarkable institution, and I look forward to working closely with the students and campus community to ensure continuity, stability and continued progress in the months ahead.”
The appointment follows the Utah Board of Higher Education’s selection of current Weber State University President Brad L. Mortensen as the next president of Utah State University.
“Leslie Durham is an experienced leader who understands Weber State University’s mission and role as well as its strategic direction,” said Amanda Covington, chair of the Utah Board of Higher Education. “Her collaborative approach and background in academic affairs, performance measurement, student success, and community partnerships will ensure steady leadership for Weber State during this transition.”
Kent Thygerson, MBA, Tooele Technical College
At Tooele Technical College, Thygerson will assume the role on Nov. 16, 2025. He currently serves as vice president of finance and operations—a position he has held for nearly a decade. He has played a key role in managing the institution’s finances and business operations, including the management of a recent capital development facility expansion. Thygerson earned an associate degree from Salt Lake Community College and a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA from Utah State University. He is currently licensed as a Certified Public Accountant and as a Certified Internal Auditor.
“It is a privilege to serve Tooele Technical College in this interim role and to work alongside our talented faculty, staff and students,” said Thygerson. “I am committed to advancing the college’s mission and providing steady leadership during this transition.”
His appointment follows Tooele Technical College President Paul Hacking’s announcement that he will retire after eight years of leadership.
“Kent Thygerson is a proven administrator who has helped strengthen Tooele Tech’s reputation with thoughtful, data-informed decision making,” said Jon Cox, vice chair of the Utah Board of Higher Education. “He will provide steady leadership and careful oversight of critical initiatives as the institution moves forward during this transition.”
Both interim presidents will lead their respective institutions while the Utah Board of Higher Education determines long-term leaders for each college and university.