Committee forwards Arthur Newell and Don Sterling for Salt Lake Community College trusteeships

The Utah Senate Education Confirmation Committee on Thursday voted unanimously to forward Arthur Newell and Don Sterling to the full Senate with favorable recommendations for appointment to the Salt Lake Community College Board of Trustees.

Arthur Newell, nominee for the Salt Lake Community College Board of Trustees, described a long record in technical and higher education governance. "Education is a very important part of our economy," Newell told the committee, citing prior service on the state board of technical education and other local boards.

Don Sterling, nominee for the Salt Lake Community College Board of Trustees and executive director of the Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Foundation, told senators he wants to expand access and help students navigate enrollment barriers. "One of the things we've seen is the power of navigators," Sterling said, describing programs that connect outreach workers with potential students to explain registration and financial aid processes.

Why it matters: Salt Lake Community College serves a broad range of students, including returning adults and first-generation college students; nominees emphasized workforce-oriented training and outreach to underserved communities.

Committee action and next steps: Senator Baldry moved that the committee recommend Arthur Newell to the full Senate; the motion passed unanimously. A motion to forward Don Sterling likewise passed unanimously. Both nominations will proceed to the full Senate for confirmation consideration.

Discussion vs. decision: Committee exchanges with nominees were discussion; formal committee actions were the motions to forward the nominations. No new funding or policy directives were adopted during the items.