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 institutional growth. Overseeing the alignment of academic offerings with regional workforce demands, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the university maintains a competitive edge in the higher education landscape. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the mission of providing accessible, high-quality degree programs. By prioritizing innovation in curriculum development, Kane Mani directly impacts the university's ability to serve the Dixie region effectively. Through rigorous oversight of institutional performance metrics, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer secures the financial and operational stability necessary for sustained expansion. Mani drives the development of new certificates and bachelor's degrees, ensuring that the institution remains a primary driver of economic development within the state of Utah.

Ian Kingsley, the President at Utah Tech University, leads the academic and administrative functions of the institution with a focus on regional impact. Overseeing the expansion of degree programs and the development of new certificates, the President ensures that the university meets the diverse educational needs of the Dixie region. This leadership role involves representing the institution to external stakeholders and securing the resources necessary for continued growth. Ian Kingsley directly influences the strategic direction of the university, prioritizing initiatives that enhance student outcomes and institutional reputation. By fostering partnerships with local industries, the President aligns academic curricula with the practical requirements of the modern workforce. Kingsley drives the implementation of policies that promote academic excellence and institutional sustainability. Through consistent engagement with the faculty and student body, the President maintains a clear vision for the future of the university as a premier public institution in Utah.

Richard VanAusdal, the DXATC President at Utah Tech University, directs the specialized technical and vocational training programs that support the university's broader educational mission. Overseeing the integration of certificate and endorsement programs, the DXATC President ensures that students gain the practical skills required for immediate entry into the workforce. This leadership role involves managing the unique operational requirements of technical education within the university's framework. Richard VanAusdal directly coordinates with industry partners to ensure that training curricula remain relevant to the needs of the Dixie region. By focusing on hands-on learning and skill acquisition, the DXATC President enhances the university's ability to provide diverse educational pathways. VanAusdal drives the development of programs that bridge the gap between academic theory and professional application. Through the effective management of technical resources, the DXATC President supports the university's goal of fostering economic development and individual career success.

Chad Mckenzie, the Stampede President at Utah Tech University, leads the student-focused initiatives and campus engagement programs that define the university's culture. Overseeing the development of extracurricular activities and student support services, the Stampede President ensures that the campus environment fosters personal growth and community involvement. This leadership role involves coordinating with student organizations to enhance the overall experience for those pursuing bachelor's and associate degrees. Chad Mckenzie directly manages the resources allocated to student life, ensuring that these programs align with the university's mission of holistic education. By promoting active participation in campus events, the Stampede President strengthens the sense of community within the Dixie region. Mckenzie drives initiatives that improve student retention and satisfaction through meaningful engagement. Through the strategic oversight of student-led projects, the Stampede President contributes to the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that characterizes the university's campus life.

Stephen Nadauld, the President at Utah Tech University, focuses on the long-term financial health and institutional governance of the university. Overseeing the allocation of capital resources and the management of endowment funds, the President ensures that the institution maintains the fiscal stability required to support its extensive academic offerings. This leadership role involves working closely with the Board to establish policies that promote sustainable growth and academic integrity. Stephen Nadauld directly influences the university's strategic planning, prioritizing investments that enhance the quality of the 45 bachelor's and 4 master's degrees. By maintaining strong relationships with donors and state officials, the President secures the funding necessary for campus infrastructure and program development. Nadauld drives the implementation of rigorous financial controls that protect the university's assets. Through prudent fiscal management, the President supports the university's mission of providing accessible and high-quality education to the Dixie region.

Shane Smeed, the President at Utah Tech University, directs the operational expansion and community outreach efforts that extend the university's influence across the state. Overseeing the development of regional partnerships and public relations strategies, the President ensures that the university remains a central pillar of the Dixie region's social and economic life. This leadership role involves managing the university's public image and fostering collaboration with local government and business leaders. Shane Smeed directly influences the university's growth trajectory by identifying new opportunities for academic and community engagement. By prioritizing initiatives that increase access to higher education, the President supports the university's mission of serving a diverse student population. Smeed drives the implementation of programs that enhance the university's visibility and impact. Through effective leadership and community advocacy, the President ensures that the university continues to provide valuable educational opportunities that meet the evolving needs of the region.

Thomas Verdine, the Utah Technology Rocket Propulsion Lab President & Founder at Utah Tech University, architects the research and development initiatives within the university's specialized engineering programs. Overseeing the design and testing of propulsion systems, the Utah Technology Rocket Propulsion Lab President & Founder ensures that students gain advanced experience in aerospace engineering. This leadership role involves managing the lab's technical resources and fostering a culture of innovation that aligns with the university's academic goals. Thomas Verdine directly influences the research output of the lab, prioritizing projects that provide students with practical, high-level engineering skills. By collaborating with faculty and industry experts, the Utah Technology Rocket Propulsion Lab President & Founder enhances the university's reputation for technical excellence. Verdine drives the development of new technologies that contribute to the university's mission of fostering innovation in the Dixie region. Through the effective management of the lab, the President & Founder supports the university's commitment to advanced scientific research.

Mandy Gulbrandsen, the Assisstant To the President at Utah Tech University, manages the administrative support and scheduling functions for the executive office. Coordinating the flow of information between the President and other departments, the Assisstant To the President ensures that the leadership team remains informed and prepared for key institutional decisions. This role involves handling sensitive communications and facilitating the logistics of high-level meetings that impact the university's strategic direction. Mandy Gulbrandsen directly supports the execution of the President's initiatives by ensuring that administrative tasks are completed with precision and efficiency. By maintaining organized records and managing the President's calendar, the Assisstant To the President optimizes the use of executive time. Gulbrandsen drives the smooth operation of the office, allowing the leadership team to focus on the university's mission of providing high-quality education. Through diligent administrative oversight, the Assisstant To the President contributes to the overall effectiveness of the university's governance.

Henrie Walton, the Chief of Staff at Utah Tech University, manages the daily operational flow and executive communications for the leadership team. Coordinating cross-departmental initiatives, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional priorities remain synchronized with the broader mission of the university. This role involves facilitating high-level decision-making processes and maintaining clear channels of communication between the administration and faculty. Henrie Walton directly supports the execution of strategic projects that enhance the student experience across the various master's and bachelor's degree programs. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff optimizes the efficiency of the university's internal governance. Walton monitors the progress of key institutional goals, providing the necessary support to ensure that all departments meet their performance targets. Through meticulous attention to organizational detail, the Chief of Staff maintains the operational integrity required for the university to thrive in the competitive Dixie region.

Suzette Yaezenko, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Utah Tech University, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies essential for academic success. Overseeing the recruitment of faculty and staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university attracts top-tier professionals capable of delivering the institution's 45 bachelor's and 4 master's degrees. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of inclusivity and professional growth that aligns with the university's commitment to the Dixie region. Suzette Yaezenko directly manages compensation structures, benefits administration, and employee relations to maintain high levels of institutional morale. By implementing robust performance management systems, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the university's mission of providing high-quality education. Yaezenko drives initiatives that enhance organizational agility, ensuring that the workforce remains prepared to adapt to the evolving needs of the student body and the broader academic community.