Board members and staff recognized Paula Plant at the Utah State Board of Education meeting for her long involvement with the School LAND Trust program and her role training local education leaders.

A presenter said Plant helped build the program from roughly $2 million in early distributions to about $111,000,000 budgeted for fiscal year 2026 and described her as a long‑time advocate who quietly works with legislators, principals and local leaders to keep the program running. "She is a respected administrator of the program, and she's known by parents and teachers and educators and principals and superintendents and legislators for her expertise, commitment, and kindness," the presenter said.

Board members and staff gave examples of Plant's responsiveness: one speaker described an instance in which Plant's team arranged training for a small local education agency within 24 hours after that district raised concerns about compliance and procedures. That example was presented to illustrate Plant's hands‑on support to districts.

Board members noted Plant's tendency to deflect praise and described her as a mentor within the agency. The recognition was presented as an employee highlight; no board action or personnel vote was taken.

Plant did not make an extended public statement during the recognition segment. The board moved on to the next agenda item after remarks and applause.