Utah Tech University Executive and Leadership Team

L. Wilson, the Chief Executive Officer and Administrator at Utah Tech University, directs all high-level administrative operations and institutional governance. Overseeing the university's fiscal health and operational infrastructure, the Chief Executive Officer and Administrator ensures alignment with the broader mission of providing accessible higher education. This leadership role involves managing complex budgetary requirements and coordinating with the board to maintain academic standards across all degree programs. By optimizing resource allocation, L. Wilson directly impacts the university's ability to expand its curriculum and support student success. Furthermore, the Chief Executive Officer and Administrator drives long-term strategic planning to ensure the institution remains a cornerstone of the Dixie region. Through rigorous oversight of administrative policies, Wilson secures the operational stability necessary for sustained growth and academic achievement within the competitive landscape of public higher education in the United States.

Stephen Nadauld, the President at Utah Tech University, architects the long-term vision and academic strategy for the institution. Overseeing the expansion of degree offerings and the development of new certificates, the President ensures that the university meets the evolving needs of the regional economy. This leadership role involves engaging with external stakeholders, donors, and government officials to secure funding and support for campus infrastructure. By championing academic innovation, Stephen Nadauld directly influences the university's market position and student enrollment growth. The President also collaborates with the board to define institutional priorities and maintain high standards of educational quality. Through visionary leadership, Nadauld drives the university's mission to provide accessible, high-quality education to students across the state. Ultimately, the President secures the resources and partnerships required to sustain the institution's growth and influence within the competitive higher education sector.

Shane Smeed, the President at Utah Tech University, focuses on operational excellence and the enhancement of student-centered learning environments. Overseeing the implementation of academic programs and campus-wide initiatives, the President ensures that the university delivers on its promise of providing 11 associate degrees and 44 minors. This leadership role involves managing the day-to-day operations of the campus and fostering a culture of innovation among faculty and staff. By prioritizing student success and retention, Shane Smeed directly impacts the university's graduation rates and overall academic reputation. The President also works closely with other executive leaders to align institutional goals with the needs of the local community and regional industries. Through a commitment to operational efficiency, Smeed drives the university's mission forward, ensuring that all academic and administrative functions support the broader goal of preparing students for successful careers in a global economy.

Chad McKenzie, the Stampede President at Utah Tech University, directs student engagement and campus spirit initiatives. Overseeing the organization of extracurricular activities and student-led events, the Stampede President ensures that the university fosters a vibrant and inclusive community. This leadership role involves coordinating with student government and various clubs to enhance the overall student experience. By promoting campus involvement, Chad McKenzie directly impacts student retention and satisfaction. The Stampede President also manages the marketing and outreach efforts designed to build school pride and strengthen the connection between the student body and the institution. Through active leadership, McKenzie creates opportunities for students to develop leadership skills and build lasting professional networks. Ultimately, the Stampede President contributes to the university's mission by cultivating a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and academic success for all students within the Dixie region.

Richard VanAusdal, the DXATC President at Utah Tech University, oversees technical education and vocational training programs. Directing the curriculum development for specialized certificates and endorsements, the DXATC President ensures that students gain the practical skills required for immediate employment in regional industries. This leadership role involves managing partnerships with local businesses to align training programs with current workforce demands. By focusing on hands-on learning and industry-relevant certifications, Richard VanAusdal directly impacts the employability of graduates. The DXATC President also coordinates with the broader university administration to integrate technical training with academic degree pathways. Through strategic management of vocational resources, VanAusdal strengthens the university's role in supporting the economic development of the Dixie region. Ultimately, the DXATC President ensures that technical education remains a vital component of the institution's commitment to providing diverse and accessible learning opportunities.

Kelli Lunt, the Alumni Chapter President at Utah Tech University, manages alumni relations and fosters long-term engagement with former students. Overseeing the organization of networking events and fundraising campaigns, the Alumni Chapter President ensures that the university maintains a strong connection with its graduates. This leadership role involves coordinating with the university's advancement office to support scholarship programs and campus initiatives. By cultivating a robust alumni network, Kelli Lunt directly impacts the university's ability to secure philanthropic support and provide mentorship opportunities for current students. The Alumni Chapter President also promotes the achievements of alumni to enhance the institution's reputation and visibility. Through dedicated outreach efforts, Lunt strengthens the bond between the university and its global community of graduates. Ultimately, the Alumni Chapter President plays a vital role in sustaining the university's legacy and supporting its future growth through active alumni participation.

Thomas Verdine, the Utah Technology Rocket Propulsion Lab President & Founder at Utah Tech University, directs research and development in aerospace engineering. Overseeing the design and testing of rocket propulsion systems, the Utah Technology Rocket Propulsion Lab President & Founder ensures that students gain advanced technical experience in a high-stakes environment. This leadership role involves managing laboratory safety protocols and securing research grants to support innovative projects. By fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, Thomas Verdine directly impacts the university's research output and its reputation in the engineering field. The Utah Technology Rocket Propulsion Lab President & Founder also mentors students, preparing them for careers in the aerospace industry. Through the management of complex engineering projects, Verdine drives the university's mission to provide cutting-edge academic opportunities. Ultimately, the Utah Technology Rocket Propulsion Lab President & Founder advances the institution's standing as a hub for technological innovation and research excellence.

Ian Kingsley, the President at Utah Tech University, leads strategic initiatives focused on community partnerships and regional economic development. Overseeing the collaboration between the university and local industry leaders, the President ensures that academic programs remain relevant to the needs of the modern workforce. This leadership role involves identifying opportunities for growth and expansion that align with the university's mission to serve the Dixie region. By building strong external relationships, Ian Kingsley directly impacts the university's ability to secure resources and create internship opportunities for students. The President also works with the faculty to promote interdisciplinary research and innovation. Through a focus on regional impact, Kingsley drives the university's commitment to providing high-quality education that supports the economic vitality of the state. Ultimately, the President ensures that the institution remains a dynamic and responsive leader in the higher education landscape.

Henrie Walton, the Chief of Staff at Utah Tech University, manages executive communications and facilitates cross-departmental collaboration. Overseeing the daily operations of the president's office, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional priorities receive consistent attention from leadership teams. This role involves streamlining decision-making processes and acting as a primary liaison between the administration and various academic departments. By coordinating strategic initiatives, Henrie Walton directly supports the university's mission to provide comprehensive bachelor's and master's degree programs. The Chief of Staff also monitors the execution of university-wide policies, ensuring that all internal functions remain synchronized with the overarching goals of the institution. Through meticulous management of executive workflows, Walton enhances organizational efficiency and fosters a culture of transparency. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff maintains the operational rhythm required to sustain the university's impact across the regional educational landscape.

Suzette Yaezenko, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Utah Tech University, directs talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Overseeing the recruitment of faculty and staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university attracts top-tier professionals capable of delivering 45 bachelor's degrees and 4 master's degrees. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive benefits packages and professional development programs that align with the institution's commitment to academic excellence. By fostering an inclusive and productive work environment, Suzette Yaezenko directly impacts the quality of instruction and student support services. The Chief Human Resources Officer also manages labor relations and compliance with state regulations, ensuring that all personnel policies support the university's strategic objectives. Through strategic workforce planning, Yaezenko strengthens the human capital necessary to maintain the university's reputation as a premier educational institution in the Dixie region.