House honors Dixie College president, thanks staff and approves 2-day bonus

During the March 3 floor session the House took personal-privilege time to recognize higher-education leaders and to thank staff for the session's work.

Representative (personal-privilege) announced the (semi-official) resignation of President Alder of Dixie College and requested the Chamber present a citation. Members praised Alder’s contributions to Dixie College and noted he has agreed to remain in a teaching role after stepping down as president: "He brings with him a vast knowledge of history, and the students of Southern Utah will benefit," a member said on the floor. Multiple representatives offered brief tributes and personal anecdotes about Alder’s service.

Later in the session, Representative Lyon and others recognized Commissioner of Higher Education Ralph Kerr and noted he and his wife will leave the state to serve an LDS mission. Members described Kerr's leadership across the state’s institutions of higher education and thanked him for his service.

Separately, Representative Hammond moved that the House give staff a two-day bonus for their work during the session; the motion was approved by voice vote. The floor noted approximately 63 staff members worked on the session and invited staff and interns to a closing social scheduled for 6:00 p.m.

Why it matters: Ceremonial recognitions and staff bonuses reflect internal House business but also document leadership changes in Utah higher education that may affect institutions and their stakeholders. President Alder’s move to teach and Commissioner Kerr’s departure for mission service were highlighted publicly on the floor.