Utah Tech University Executive and Leadership Team

Kane Mani, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Utah Tech University, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term growth initiatives for the institution. By aligning academic offerings with evolving market demands, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures the university maintains a competitive edge in the higher education landscape. Kane Mani manages high-level partnerships with industry leaders to expand research opportunities and student career pathways. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of institutional performance metrics to drive operational efficiency across all departments. Through rigorous oversight of fiscal health and resource allocation, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary infrastructure to support a growing student body. By championing a culture of innovation, Mani fosters an environment where faculty and staff thrive, ultimately strengthening the university's reputation as a premier public institution within the Dixie region and beyond.

Shane Smeed, the President at Utah Tech University, provides executive leadership for the institution's academic mission and community engagement efforts. By overseeing the expansion of degree programs and certificates, the President ensures the university meets the diverse needs of students in the Dixie region. Shane Smeed manages relationships with state officials and educational partners to secure funding and support for campus infrastructure projects. This leadership role involves setting the strategic direction for academic excellence and student success initiatives. By fostering a collaborative environment among faculty and administration, the President drives continuous improvement in teaching and research quality. Smeed monitors institutional performance against regional benchmarks to maintain high standards of academic rigor. Through active participation in community outreach, the President strengthens the university's role as a vital economic and cultural hub, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth for the entire institution.

Eugene Flynn, the Board President at Utah Tech University, directs the governance activities and fiduciary oversight required to maintain institutional integrity. By presiding over board meetings and committee deliberations, the Board President ensures that all strategic decisions align with the university's mission and long-term interests. Eugene Flynn manages the relationship between the board and executive leadership, facilitating transparent communication and accountability. This role involves evaluating institutional performance and approving major policy changes that impact the university's academic and financial trajectory. By providing guidance on risk management and resource allocation, the Board President supports the stability of the institution. Flynn works closely with other board members to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities for growth within the higher education sector. Through dedicated leadership, the Board President upholds the standards of excellence and public trust necessary for the university to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Chad Mckenzie, the Stampede President at Utah Tech University, leads the initiatives focused on student engagement and campus spirit to enhance the overall collegiate experience. By organizing large-scale events and student-led programs, the Stampede President fosters a vibrant community atmosphere that encourages student participation and retention. Chad Mckenzie manages the coordination of extracurricular activities that bridge the gap between academic life and social development. This leadership role involves collaborating with student organizations and university departments to promote campus culture and school pride. By identifying opportunities for student involvement, the Stampede President drives initiatives that support personal growth and leadership development among the student body. Mckenzie monitors the impact of these programs on student satisfaction and campus morale. Through strategic planning and execution of student-focused events, the Stampede President ensures that the university remains a dynamic and inclusive environment for all learners.

Richard VanAusdal, the DXATC President at Utah Tech University, oversees the technical and vocational training programs designed to meet the specific workforce needs of the Dixie region. By aligning curriculum with industry standards, the DXATC President ensures that students gain the practical skills required for immediate employment in high-demand fields. Richard VanAusdal manages the operational aspects of technical education, including facility maintenance and equipment procurement for specialized labs. This leadership role involves building partnerships with local businesses to create internship and apprenticeship opportunities for students. By focusing on career-ready education, the DXATC President drives economic development and supports the regional labor market. VanAusdal collaborates with academic leadership to integrate technical training with broader degree pathways, providing students with flexible options for advancement. Through effective management of vocational resources, the DXATC President sustains a high-quality learning environment that prepares graduates for successful professional careers.

Mandy Gulbrandsen, the Assisstant To the President at Utah Tech University, manages administrative support functions and facilitates communication between the president's office and external stakeholders. By coordinating complex schedules and preparing essential documentation, the Assisstant To the President ensures that executive priorities are executed efficiently. Mandy Gulbrandsen handles sensitive inquiries and serves as a primary point of contact for university leadership, maintaining professional standards in all interactions. This role involves tracking the progress of key institutional projects and providing status updates to the president. By organizing meetings and events, the Assisstant To the President supports the smooth operation of the executive office. Gulbrandsen assists in the preparation of reports and presentations that highlight the university's achievements and strategic goals. Through meticulous attention to detail and proactive problem-solving, the Assisstant To the President enhances the overall effectiveness of the university's leadership team.

Kelli Lunt, the Alumni Chapter President at Utah Tech University, directs engagement strategies to maintain strong connections between the institution and its graduates. By organizing networking events and outreach programs, the Alumni Chapter President fosters a sense of community among former students and encourages ongoing support for university initiatives. Kelli Lunt manages communication channels that keep alumni informed about campus developments and opportunities for involvement. This leadership role involves identifying ways for alumni to contribute to student success through mentorship and scholarship programs. By cultivating these relationships, the Alumni Chapter President strengthens the university's network and enhances its reputation. Lunt collaborates with the development office to align alumni activities with fundraising goals and institutional priorities. Through consistent engagement efforts, the Alumni Chapter President ensures that graduates remain active participants in the university's growth and long-term success.

Stephen Nadauld, the President at Utah Tech University, provides high-level guidance on institutional policy and academic standards to ensure the university meets its educational objectives. By focusing on long-term strategic planning, the President oversees the development of new academic programs and the enhancement of existing curricula. Stephen Nadauld manages the university's relationships with regional stakeholders and educational boards to advocate for institutional interests. This leadership role involves evaluating the effectiveness of academic departments and implementing improvements to support student learning outcomes. By fostering a culture of excellence, the President drives the university's mission to provide accessible and high-quality education. Nadauld works with the leadership team to address operational challenges and capitalize on opportunities for institutional advancement. Through dedicated oversight of academic and administrative functions, the President ensures that the university remains a cornerstone of the Dixie region's educational landscape.

Samantha Kidd, the Chief of Staff at Utah Tech University, coordinates executive operations and facilitates seamless communication between the president's office and various academic departments. Overseeing the daily workflow of the administrative team, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional priorities receive immediate attention and resources. Samantha Kidd manages complex projects that span multiple divisions, requiring precise synchronization of efforts to meet university-wide goals. This role involves preparing critical briefings for the Board and senior leadership to support informed decision-making processes. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff enhances organizational agility and responsiveness to emerging challenges. Kidd maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that all administrative functions align with the broader mission of providing high-quality education. Through proactive management of executive schedules and stakeholder engagement, the Chief of Staff optimizes the effectiveness of the entire leadership team.

Suzette Yaezenko, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Utah Tech University, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies essential for maintaining a high-performing academic environment. By implementing comprehensive recruitment and retention programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the university attracts top-tier faculty and administrative staff. Suzette Yaezenko oversees the administration of benefits, compensation structures, and professional development initiatives that support employee engagement and institutional loyalty. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor regulations while fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace culture. By aligning human capital strategies with the university's long-term growth objectives, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives organizational stability and operational success. Yaezenko collaborates with department heads to identify staffing needs and implement training protocols that enhance overall productivity. Through diligent management of personnel policies, the Chief Human Resources Officer sustains a robust workforce capable of delivering exceptional educational outcomes.