St. George Hospital President Ashby seeks role on Utah Tech University Board of Trustees

The Senate Education Confirmation Committee convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss the nomination of a candidate for the Board of Trustees at Utah Tech University. The candidate, who currently serves as the president of St. George Regional Hospital and oversees the Southwest Utah Market for Intermountain Healthcare, presented a comprehensive overview of her qualifications and vision for the university.

The candidate began by detailing her extensive background in healthcare, highlighting her 15 years of experience as a nurse before transitioning into leadership roles. She emphasized her commitment to rural healthcare, particularly in supporting Cedar City Hospital and other facilities in the region. Her educational journey included an associate degree in nursing from Utah Valley State College, a bachelor's degree from Dixie State University, and an MBA focused on healthcare management from Western Governors University.

In addition to her professional experience, the candidate has actively participated in community service, serving on various boards, including the DEV board for domestic violence advocacy and the Utah Tech healthcare advisory board. She is also involved with the Saint George Chamber of Commerce and Rocky Vista Medical School.

The candidate expressed her dedication to enhancing the educational experience at Utah Tech University, aiming to promote high standards in education and financial stewardship. She noted the alignment between Intermountain Health and Utah Tech University, particularly in their shared commitment to quality and innovation in healthcare education.

Key initiatives discussed included a targeted workforce application to address nursing shortages and collaborative educational programs that prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare. The candidate highlighted Intermountain's role as the official medical provider for Utah Tech University, emphasizing the importance of fostering strong community ties and supporting student health.

The meeting concluded with the candidate expressing her enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees, aiming to contribute to the university's ongoing success and the development of future healthcare leaders. The committee will review her nomination and make recommendations in the coming weeks.