Senate committee backs reappointments to Utah State University board; chair-designate highlights transparency and change management

The Senate Education Confirmation Committee on Friday recommended reappointment of Casey Malouf and Tessa White to the Utah State University board of trustees and will forward both nominations to the full Senate with favorable recommendations.

Casey Malouf, a Cache Valley resident and entrepreneur who chairs the academic approval committee at USU, said she would focus on retention, completion and expanding undergraduate research opportunities. "I love Utah State. I've really enjoyed being a member of the USU Board of Trustees, and I hope to continue in that role for the next 4 years," Malouf said.

Tessa White, who could not attend in person, submitted a written statement and video read by Gina Gagan, vice chair of the USU board. In the letter, White described more than 25 years of human-resources and change-management experience and said she was chosen recently as chair of the USU board. She wrote that her leadership priorities include transparency, stronger communication between trustees and the legislature, and decision speed during transitions. "People don't trust silence. They trust honest and open conversation even if it is a hard conversation," White wrote in the letter.

Gina Gagan told the committee she has worked with White for four years and praised White's emphasis on active transparency and outreach to trustees and legislators. Committee members praised both nominees and moved both names to the full Senate for confirmation.

Committee discussion emphasized the board's role in supporting a statewide mission, ensuring student access in rural communities and preparing students for the workforce. Both nominees were recommended unanimously by the committee.