Utah Valley University Executive and Leadership Team

Dante Ketchum, the President at Utah Valley University, provides overarching strategic direction for the entire public institution. The President defines the long-term vision for academic growth and community engagement, ensuring that the university meets the evolving needs of the regional workforce. By leading the executive team, Ketchum fosters a culture of innovation and inclusivity across all degree-granting departments. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, government officials, and donors to secure necessary funding and support. Through the implementation of comprehensive institutional policies, the President drives progress toward achieving the university's mission of accessible, high-quality education. Ketchum oversees the alignment of academic programs with market demands to ensure student success. The President maintains a focus on fiscal responsibility and institutional integrity, guiding the university through complex challenges while expanding the reach of its Master's, Bachelor's, and associate degree offerings.

Annette Lund, the Executive Specialist - Office of the President at Utah Valley University, coordinates complex administrative tasks and supports the daily functions of the presidential office. The Executive Specialist - Office of the President manages scheduling, correspondence, and logistical arrangements for high-level meetings involving university leadership. By ensuring that the president has access to accurate data and briefing materials, Lund facilitates informed decision-making processes. This role involves acting as a primary point of contact for internal and external inquiries, maintaining professional standards of communication. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Executive Specialist - Office of the President supports the smooth operation of the university's central administration. Lund assists in the preparation of reports and presentations that highlight institutional achievements and strategic goals. The Executive Specialist - Office of the President contributes to the overall effectiveness of the leadership team by managing the administrative environment required for successful institutional governance.

Kayla Taylor, the Women's Club Volleyball President at Utah Valley University, directs the operations and competitive strategy of the student athletic organization. The Women's Club Volleyball President manages team logistics, including travel arrangements, practice schedules, and tournament participation. By fostering a collaborative team environment, Taylor ensures that student-athletes maintain high standards of performance and sportsmanship. This role involves coordinating with university departments to secure funding and facility access for club activities. Through the promotion of athletic engagement, the Women's Club Volleyball President contributes to the vibrant campus culture and student life experience. Taylor oversees recruitment efforts to maintain a competitive roster capable of representing the university in regional and national competitions. The Women's Club Volleyball President focuses on developing leadership skills among team members while promoting physical health and wellness. This role supports the university's commitment to holistic student development through extracurricular involvement.

Ian Russell, the Utah Valley Esports President at Utah Valley University, leads the strategic development and competitive operations of the university's esports program. The Utah Valley Esports President manages team rosters, tournament participation, and the integration of gaming technology into the campus community. By overseeing the program's growth, Russell ensures that students have access to competitive opportunities and professional development in the digital gaming sector. This role involves collaborating with university administration to secure resources and promote the program to the broader student body. Through the organization of events and matches, the Utah Valley Esports President drives student engagement and fosters a sense of community among participants. Russell focuses on building partnerships with industry sponsors to enhance the program's visibility and impact. The Utah Valley Esports President maintains a commitment to excellence in competitive gaming, aligning the program with the university's focus on modern, technology-driven student experiences.

Martha Cardenas, the President at Utah Valley University, focuses on the operational oversight of specific student-led initiatives and organizational governance. The President manages the internal structure of the organization, ensuring that all activities align with the university's broader mission of student success and community service. By facilitating meetings and coordinating with other student leaders, Cardenas drives the implementation of programs that enhance the campus experience. This role involves managing budgets and resources to support the organization's goals and outreach efforts. Through the development of strategic partnerships, the President expands the impact of student-led projects across the university. Cardenas ensures that all initiatives remain compliant with institutional policies while promoting a culture of leadership and responsibility. The President maintains a focus on fostering an inclusive environment where students can develop professional skills. This role supports the university's commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience that extends beyond the classroom.

Jacquelin Pimentel, the Interfaith Leadership Council Co-President at Utah Valley University, directs efforts to promote dialogue and understanding among diverse religious and cultural groups on campus. The Interfaith Leadership Council Co-President manages the planning of events and workshops that encourage inclusive engagement and mutual respect. By facilitating discussions between different student organizations, Pimentel ensures that the council remains a central hub for interfaith collaboration. This role involves coordinating with university staff to provide resources that support the council's mission of fostering a welcoming campus environment. Through the promotion of educational initiatives, the Interfaith Leadership Council Co-President drives awareness of diverse perspectives and values. Pimentel oversees the development of outreach strategies to increase student participation in council activities. The Interfaith Leadership Council Co-President maintains a focus on building bridges across the university community, contributing to the institution's goal of creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Tristin Smith, the UVU Rotaract President at Utah Valley University, leads the organization's efforts in community service and professional development. The UVU Rotaract President manages the planning and execution of service projects that benefit both the local community and international causes. By coordinating with local Rotary clubs, Smith ensures that students have access to networking opportunities and mentorship. This role involves overseeing the organization's membership recruitment and engagement strategies to maintain a strong, active presence on campus. Through the promotion of service-oriented leadership, the UVU Rotaract President drives student involvement in meaningful social impact initiatives. Smith manages the organization's budget and administrative tasks to ensure the successful delivery of all planned activities. The UVU Rotaract President maintains a focus on developing the professional skills of members while upholding the university's commitment to community engagement. This role supports the institution's mission by fostering a spirit of service and global citizenship among the student body.

Kathryn Zabriskie, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Utah Valley University, manages high-level administrative operations and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. The Deputy Chief of Staff facilitates communication between the executive office and various academic divisions to ensure institutional goals remain aligned with public university standards. By streamlining internal workflows, Zabriskie optimizes resource allocation across the Orem campus. This role involves monitoring project timelines and supporting the implementation of strategic policies that enhance the overall student experience. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Deputy Chief of Staff maintains operational continuity during periods of institutional growth. Zabriskie provides essential support to the executive leadership team, ensuring that daily activities reflect the core mission of providing accessible Master's, Bachelor's, and associate degrees. The Deputy Chief of Staff remains focused on improving organizational efficiency to better serve the diverse student population within the regional education landscape.

Kara Schneck, the Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff at Utah Valley University, directs institutional branding and internal administrative strategy. The Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff oversees the development of comprehensive communication campaigns that highlight the university's academic offerings and public mission. By managing the flow of information between the president and key stakeholders, Schneck ensures consistent messaging across all platforms. This leadership role involves coordinating public relations efforts to strengthen the university's reputation within the competitive higher education market. Through strategic oversight of marketing initiatives, the Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff drives engagement with prospective students and community partners. Schneck aligns communication goals with the broader institutional objectives to support long-term growth. The Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff maintains a focus on transparency and effective outreach, ensuring that the university's value proposition remains clear to all regional constituents.

Christina Baum, the Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer at Utah Valley University, architects the technological infrastructure necessary for modern academic delivery. The Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer manages the integration of advanced digital tools to enhance learning outcomes and administrative efficiency. By overseeing the university's information systems, Baum ensures secure and scalable access to educational resources for students and faculty. This role involves collaborating with academic leaders to implement innovative software solutions that support the university's diverse degree programs. Through the modernization of campus technology, the Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer drives digital literacy and operational agility. Baum maintains a focus on data security and system reliability to protect institutional assets. The Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer supports the university's mission by providing the digital foundation required for excellence in public higher education across the region.