ST. GEORGE, Utah — Utah Tech University in St. George has picked its new leader.
The university announced Wednesday that Shane Smeed, currently the president of Park University in Parksville, Missouri, will be taking the reins as the institution's 19th leader.
The search process started in January 2024 and stretched into 2025.
Upon his introduction, Smeed expressed his familiarity with the university’s mission and the vibrant community in St. George.
“In a short period of time, I've gained an incredible testimony of what is happening right here in this place,” Smeed remarked at the announcement. “This is a special time. This is a special occasion.”
The decision to appoint Smeed concludes a long and sometimes tumultuous search effort that began after the resignation of former president Richard "Biff" Williams early last year, a departure that followed allegations of misconduct and an ongoing discrimination lawsuit involving current administrators.
Board members addressed the divisions created during this interim period, including a no-confidence vote from faculty leadership, as they welcomed the new president.
"Our new president... will lead Utah Tech as we come together and work to support this growth,” said Deven Macdonald, a member of the Board of Trustees.
Smeed, originally from Provo, Utah, emphasized his commitment to integrity and transparency throughout his tenure. He expressed a hope to build a better environment and foster strong relationships among students, faculty, and staff.
"I will lead with great integrity. I will lead with great charity. This is all for the betterment of our students. I love this institution," Smeed said.
Sophomore Emmry Wilcox expressed enthusiasm for Smeed’s focus on transparency.
“That makes me very confident in him,” she said. “I mean, who doesn't love someone that's transparent about everything? It's amazing that he's willing to do that, and I just hope that he upholds that standard.”
The future of university leadership searches in Utah may shift, however, in light of proposed legislation.
A new bill, SB 282, which has passed the Senate and is now in the House, seeks to limit public access to discussions about university leadership until the final selection stage.
Wilcox, reflecting on the potential legislation, shared her concerns.
“I think that's really sad, honestly. I was able to attend the public forums, which was awesome. The candidates actually engaged with the community. I feel like the people in the crowd felt more connected to these people," she said.
