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President of Sutherland Institute stepping down after 14 years

Posted at 3:03 PM, Aug 26, 2014
and last updated 2014-08-26 17:06:27-04

SALT LAKE CITY – After 14 years, Paul Mero is stepping down as president of the Sutherland Institute.

Officials said he was asked to step down and his decision is effective immediately.

The search for a new leader is to begin soon.

Stanford Swim, chairman of the board, will serve as acting CEO until a new president is selected.

“Paul has served faithfully and effectively as he has led Sutherland Institute from its infancy to becoming the most influential conservative voice in Utah,” Swim said. “While the board feels this change is necessary as we move into the future, we are grateful for his dedicated service. We will continue to be guided by our seven governing principles that allow faith, family and freedom to flourish in Utah.”

Gaylord Swim, who founded the Sutherland Institute, hired Mero in 2000 to oversee the growth of the institute’s influence throughout the state.

Previously, Mero worked in Congress for 10 years among other endeavors.

“Disagreements often arise between a CEO and board and this is what happened here,” Mero said. “While disappointing, it became necessary. I have enjoyed every success and learned from every failure. Utah is a better place to live, work and raise a family because of Sutherland Institute.”

Sutherland Institute states it is a nonpartisan, independent public policy organization located in Salt Lake City.

As a state-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, officials said its mission is to protect the cause of freedom, constructively influence Utah’s decision-makers, and promote responsible citizenship.

According to the group, Sutherland Institute is recognized as the leading conservative think tank in the state of Utah.