The Utah Board of Higher Education has unanimously selected Shane B. Smeed as the next president of Utah Tech University on Feb. 26, 2025. With 25 years of experience in higher education, Smeed brings a wealth of leadership and expertise to the role. While transition details are still being finalized, the Board looks forward to sharing more information soon.
“I’m excited to return to my home state to serve this deserving student body and work closely with our dedicated faculty and staff. I also look forward to engaging with the community, particularly in workforce development, and encouraging community participation in campus events and activities,” Smeed said. “My goal is to help create a gathering place for students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members. With the institution’s polytechnic mission, my aim is to graduate the best-prepared students who will contribute to Southern Utah, the great state of Utah and beyond.”
Smeed, a Utah native, currently serves as president of Park University, where he has led initiatives focused on student success, institutional excellence and workforce development. His leadership accomplishments include launching a comprehensive fundraising campaign and creating strategic business partnerships to enhance student outcomes in the global market.
“Utah Tech is an incredible anchor and asset to the southern Utah community and the state, and we are excited about what’s next under President Smeed’s leadership,” said Amanda Covington, chair of the Utah Board of Higher Education. “His proven track record of success as a president and visionary leader in higher education will serve him well as he works in partnership with the incredible community, students, faculty, staff and other key partners to honor the rich heritage of this region while embracing Utah Tech’s unique polytech mission.”
“Shane Smeed is the right person to build on our legacy and now lead Utah Tech University into an exciting new chapter of growth and development,” said Deven Macdonald, co-chair of the Presidential Search Committee and vice chair of Utah Tech’s Board of Trustees. “After an extensive search that evaluated candidates for their leadership ability, academic experience and commitment to community, we are thrilled about this appointment. Under President Smeed’s leadership, Utah Tech will be poised for continued expansion and student success.”
“We are excited to welcome President Smeed to Utah Tech University and the System, and we are confident that he brings the leadership, vision and collaborative spirit needed to ensure Utah Tech’s continued success,” said USHE Commissioner Geoffrey Landward.
Learn more about President Smeed at utahtech.edu/presidential-search.
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About Utah Tech University
Utah Tech University is an open-enrollment teaching institution that offers 300 academic programs at one of the lowest tuition costs in the Western United States, with the motto “active learning. active life.” Utah Tech provides personalized and engaged learning experiences that prepare students for rewarding careers and enriched lives. Outside of the classroom, students have the opportunity to enjoy the unparalleled opportunities for an active life that accompany Utah Tech’s location in scenic Southern Utah.
About the Utah System of Higher Education
The Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) is governed by the Utah Board of Higher Education and is comprised of Utah’s 16 public colleges and universities. For more information, visit ushe.edu.
