The governor of the state of Utah will address graduates at this year’s commencement ceremonies, scheduled for April 25 in the McKay Events Center.
The honorable Jon Huntsman Jr. is no stranger to UVSC; on March 19, 2007, Huntsman, while on campus, signed the bill into law that formalized the approval for UVSC to become a University.
"We are delighted to have the governor speak at commencement," said President William A. Sederburg. "He has been a great supporter of the college and our transition to Utah Valley University. We are grateful for his support, and excited to hear from him."
During the 2007 signing, Huntsman spoke of the great future and potential this institution has as it transitions to university status. "With the new designation, this institution will be better equipped to become the idea factory – the freedom factory, if you will," Huntsman said. "Let us not forget that aside from all the learning that takes place and the professionalism, which we applaud this institution for, there is such a thing as a legacy of humanity, which we’re all here to celebrate. It means something different for all of us: It is humanity, it is ethics, it is understanding. That sense of humanity will be expected from this institution."
Huntsman will be the recipient of an honorary degree from the college. As an honorary member of the class of 2008, Huntsman and the graduates will the last recipients of a degree from Utah Valley State College.
Huntsman, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, began his public service career as a White House staff assistant to President Ronald Reagan. Huntsman has also served in senior appointments to the Commerce Department and the State Department, as well as service as Deputy United States Trade Representative.
Since assuming office in January 2005, Huntsman has worked towards tax reform and lessening the threat of nuclear waste entering Utah, while managing one of the most thriving economies in Utah’s recent history.
With record budget surpluses, Huntsman and his staff have focused on providing for and supporting a competitive education system.
Other honorary degree recipients will include Bill Hulterstrom, president and CEO of United Way of Utah County, and Lane Beattie, president of the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce.
Morning convocations for UVSC’s 67th commencement ceremonies will begin at 8 a.m. for the School of Business in the McKay Events Center, 8:30 a.m. for the School of General Academics in the Grande Ballroom, and 8:30 a.m. for the School of Science & Health in the Activities Center.
Afternoon convocations begin at 12:30 p.m. for the School of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences in the McKay Events Center, 12:30 p.m. for the School of Education in the Activities Center, and 2:30 p.m. for the School of Technology & Computing in the McKay Events Center.
