Utah Board of Higher Education Chairman Reflects on Two-Year Accomplishments

In the heart of St. George, Utah, a seasoned leader shared his journey, reflecting on a life dedicated to family, community, and education. With over 33 years of marriage and the anticipation of a fifth grandchild, he emphasized the joy of family, humorously noting that had they known the delight of grandchildren, they might have prioritized them first.

His career, which began at the tender age of six in a family-owned food distributorship, has spanned more than five decades in trucking, transportation logistics, and fuel distribution. Armed with an accounting degree from Southern Utah University, he humorously acknowledged that he never intended to pursue a career in that field. Yet, his passion for the industry has kept him deeply engaged.

Throughout his extensive career, he has served on numerous advisory committees, including Zions Bank and the Department of Workforce Services. His commitment to education is evident in his decade-long service on the National Advisory Committee and two years on the Board of Trustees at Utah Tech. Currently, he is completing his tenure as chairman of the board for Ambest Incorporated, a cooperative of nearly 600 independently owned truck travel and service centers.

Perhaps most notably, he spent 27 years as a high school baseball coach, a role that allowed him to mentor young athletes both on and off the field. This experience has fostered lasting relationships, with many former players remaining close friends and business partners.

As he concludes his eighth year on the Utah Board of Higher Education, he reflects on his role as Audit Committee Chairman, where he has engaged with board chairs and university presidents to address challenges within their institutions. He expressed gratitude for the support from the legislature and highlighted significant accomplishments over the past two years, including the successful recruitment of two presidents for degree-granting institutions and the updating of the board's strategic plan to align with desired educational outcomes.

This meeting not only showcased his personal journey but also underscored the importance of community involvement and educational leadership in shaping the future of Utah's higher education landscape. As he looks ahead, the commitment to fostering growth and support within the educational system remains a priority, promising a bright future for students and institutions alike.