A new chapter begins at Utah State University as Brad Mortensen, a proud Rexburg native, steps into the role of President. This is a significant moment, marking the beginning of a new era for the institution. Mortensen, a graduate of Madison High School, was inaugurated as USU's 17th president, and remarkably, the first alumnus to hold the position since 1968.
Mortensen's vision for USU is ambitious and forward-thinking. He eloquently stated, "The landscape blooms with a calling to serve students wherever the sagebrush grows. Our university must transcend the familiar or risk becoming an echo of the past, rather than the propulsion for the future." This sentiment underscores his commitment to innovation and progress. He emphasized the importance of unity, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders from all corners of the university.
Mortensen's leadership experience is extensive, bringing over two decades of higher education leadership to USU. Before this appointment, he served as the president of Weber State University for nearly seven years. During his tenure there, he achieved several notable accomplishments, including securing multiple recognitions for outstanding return on investment for graduates. He also spearheaded the establishment of the Miller Advanced Research and Solutions Center in collaboration with the Utah Legislature, the U.S. Air Force, and the aerospace and defense industry. Additionally, he oversaw the development of new graduate programs and expanded the university's dual enrollment program to become the largest in the U.S. among four-year institutions in 2024.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox has high praise for Mortensen, calling him "one of the best human beings in our state." Cox emphasized the need for strong leadership to guide USU into the future, preserve its core values, and foster improvement. He revealed that Mortensen was the first person he contacted when the university began its search for a new president, expressing his belief that Mortensen is the right person to lead the university. Cox highlighted Mortensen's deep understanding of the institution and his ability to unite the community.
Geoffrey Landward, commissioner of the Utah System of Higher Education, echoed this sentiment, noting Mortensen's proven ability to bring together various stakeholders during his time at Weber State.
Mortensen has outlined four key goals to guide his mission at USU:
- Expand USU's statewide reach, enhancing educational opportunities and driving economic mobility.
- Enhance student success with a focus on completion and return on investment.
- Lead world-changing discovery, applying USU's community engagement to address critical challenges.
- Instill values of authenticity, integrity, and civic-mindedness, promoting the pursuit of peace.
Mortensen's approach is rooted in continuous self-assessment and a commitment to learning. He believes that USU should be a learning university, constantly evolving to meet the needs of its students and the community.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could Mortensen's focus on expansion and innovation potentially overshadow the preservation of traditional values? And this is the part most people miss... How will his leadership style impact the diverse student body and faculty? What are your thoughts on his vision for the university? Share your opinions in the comments below!
