Utah Valley University Executive and Leadership Team

Brittney Harrison, the President at Utah Valley University, provides executive oversight for the institution's academic and administrative functions. Overseeing the implementation of strategic initiatives, the President ensures that the university maintains its commitment to providing high-quality degree programs. This role involves engaging with the Board of Trustees to define the long-term vision for institutional growth and student development. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders, Brittney Harrison expands opportunities for students and faculty alike. The President directs the allocation of resources to support research, teaching, and community service. Harrison manages the overall health of the university, ensuring that financial and academic goals remain in balance. Through visionary leadership, the President drives the university's mission to serve a diverse student body. The President maintains a focus on academic excellence, ensuring that the institution remains a cornerstone of higher education in the region while adapting to the changing needs of the modern workforce.

Astrid Tuminez, the President at Utah Valley University, leads the strategic direction and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing the university's growth, the President ensures that all degree programs align with the evolving demands of the global economy. This role involves cultivating relationships with regional and national stakeholders to enhance the university's influence and resource base. By championing inclusive education, Astrid Tuminez drives initiatives that support student retention and graduation rates. The President manages the executive team to ensure that operational goals support the broader institutional vision. Tuminez directs the university's efforts to remain a public leader in accessible higher education. Through active engagement with the academic community, the President fosters an environment of innovation and scholarly achievement. The President secures the university's future by prioritizing sustainable growth and academic rigor, ensuring that the institution continues to provide transformative educational experiences for all students within the diverse academic landscape.

Wayne Vaught, the Interim President at Utah Valley University, maintains continuity in leadership while overseeing the daily operations of the institution. Overseeing the transition of key administrative functions, the Interim President ensures that academic programs continue to operate without disruption. This role involves managing relationships with faculty, staff, and students to maintain a stable and productive campus environment. By directing the university's immediate strategic priorities, Wayne Vaught supports the ongoing mission of providing accessible degree programs. The Interim President collaborates with the Board of Trustees to facilitate the long-term goals of the university. Vaught manages the executive team to ensure that all departments remain focused on student success and institutional excellence. Through steady leadership, the Interim President drives the university's commitment to academic quality during this period of transition. The Interim President ensures that the university remains a vital resource for the community, upholding the standards of excellence established since the institution's founding.

Martha Cardenas, the President at Utah Valley University, manages the overarching academic and administrative strategy for the institution. Overseeing the development of new degree programs, the President ensures that the university meets the needs of a diverse student population. This role involves coordinating with academic departments to enhance the quality of instruction and research. By driving initiatives that promote student engagement, Martha Cardenas strengthens the university's role as a public educational leader. The President directs the implementation of policies that support faculty development and institutional growth. Cardenas manages the university's resources to ensure that all programs remain accessible and effective. Through strategic planning, the President drives the university's mission to provide high-quality education that prepares students for professional success. The President maintains a focus on institutional integrity, ensuring that the university continues to serve as a pillar of higher education while adapting to the challenges of the modern academic environment.

Tristin Smith, the UVU Rotaract President at Utah Valley University, leads student-driven service initiatives that connect the campus with global humanitarian efforts. Overseeing the organization's community outreach projects, the UVU Rotaract President ensures that students gain practical experience in leadership and social responsibility. This role involves coordinating with local and international partners to execute service-oriented programs that align with the university's mission of community engagement. By driving student participation in volunteer activities, Tristin Smith enhances the university's impact on the broader society. The UVU Rotaract President manages the organization's budget and event planning to ensure successful project delivery. Smith directs the efforts of student members to address pressing social issues through collaborative action. Through dedicated leadership, the UVU Rotaract President fosters a culture of service and global awareness among the student body, ensuring that the university's commitment to community service remains a central component of the student experience.

Henry Nietes, the President at Utah Valley University, oversees the strategic administration of the university's academic and operational divisions. Overseeing the alignment of degree programs with industry standards, the President ensures that the institution provides relevant and high-quality education. This role involves managing the university's relationships with external partners to secure funding and support for academic initiatives. By driving innovation in teaching and learning, Henry Nietes enhances the university's reputation as a leader in public higher education. The President directs the executive team to ensure that all departments work toward the common goal of student success. Nietes manages the university's long-term planning to ensure financial stability and academic growth. Through visionary leadership, the President drives the university's mission to provide accessible education to a diverse student body. The President maintains a focus on institutional excellence, ensuring that the university remains a vital contributor to the region's economic and social development.

Liam Thiess, the President, National Security Society at Utah Valley University, directs the activities of a specialized student organization focused on national security and defense studies. Overseeing the society's academic programming and guest speaker series, the President, National Security Society ensures that students gain deep insights into complex global security challenges. This role involves coordinating with faculty advisors and industry experts to provide professional development opportunities for students interested in security careers. By driving engagement with current security issues, Liam Thiess prepares students for roles in public service and defense. The President, National Security Society manages the organization's outreach to ensure that students have access to relevant research and networking events. Thiess directs the society's efforts to foster critical thinking and analytical skills among its members. Through active leadership, the President, National Security Society strengthens the university's academic community, ensuring that students are well-equipped to address the evolving security landscape.

Kathryn Zabriskie, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Utah Valley University, manages high-level administrative workflows and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. Overseeing internal communication protocols, the Deputy Chief of Staff ensures alignment between executive directives and institutional goals. This role involves facilitating complex projects that support the broader mission of providing accessible higher education. By streamlining operational processes, Kathryn Zabriskie directly impacts the efficiency of the university administration. The Deputy Chief of Staff maintains rigorous standards for organizational performance while supporting the executive team in executing long-term strategic plans. Through careful oversight of administrative resources, the Deputy Chief of Staff strengthens the foundation for academic success. Zabriskie coordinates with various departments to ensure consistent policy implementation across the campus. Ultimately, the Deputy Chief of Staff drives operational excellence, ensuring that the university remains responsive to the evolving needs of students and faculty within the competitive landscape of public higher education.

Christina Baum, the Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer at Utah Valley University, architects the technological infrastructure necessary for modern academic delivery. Overseeing the integration of advanced digital tools, the Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty possess access to cutting-edge learning environments. This leadership role involves managing large-scale data systems and cybersecurity frameworks that protect institutional integrity. By driving digital innovation, Christina Baum enhances the overall educational experience and operational agility of the university. The Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic leaders to implement software solutions that support diverse degree programs. Baum directs the modernization of campus-wide information systems to improve accessibility and efficiency. Through the strategic deployment of technology, the Vice President, Digital Transformation & Chief Information Officer secures the university's position as a leader in digital education, ensuring that all technological investments directly support the core mission of student success.

Kara Schneck, the Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff at Utah Valley University, directs the institutional brand strategy and internal communication frameworks. Overseeing public relations and outreach initiatives, the Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff ensures that the university's mission reaches prospective students and community stakeholders effectively. This role involves managing complex messaging campaigns that highlight the value of Master's, Bachelor's, and associate degrees. By aligning marketing efforts with institutional goals, Kara Schneck strengthens the university's reputation within the competitive higher education market. The Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff coordinates with executive leadership to maintain consistent messaging across all platforms. Schneck manages the flow of information to ensure transparency and engagement with the broader public. Through strategic communication, the Vice President, Marketing Communications & Chief of Staff drives enrollment growth and community support, ensuring that the university's impact remains visible and impactful across the region.