With over 25 years of experience in higher education, President Shane Smeed is dedicated to providing quality growth and commitment to Utah Tech University.
On Feb. 26, Shane Smeed was elected the new president of Utah Tech.
Smeed said, “For this particular position, after spending 27 years in the private sector, I really felt a desire to come to the state of Utah.”
It wasn’t just the red rocks that brought him to Utah — it was the sense of community at Utah Tech. Smeed has seen the opportunities open enrollment has for students to grow. The university’s mission for open access, comprehensive and open enrollment is what he was also ultimately drawn to.
Community engagement
Smeed’s goal is to build a strong connection with the community because he sees the importance of community in St. George.
Starting his position when commencement was happening gave him the opportunity to see what the community looked like. With the majority of faculty and students gone for the summer, he got to engage with the community and was able to devote time to talking with community members and alumn.
“It has been so rewarding. I don’t think I could have picked a better time to start,” he said.
Smeed wants to make Utah Tech the place to be. He encourages St. George residents and alumn to come to sporting games, events and visit campus.
“What I learned there is just how deeply important this university is to our community and how committed I am to bridge and build relationships back,” Smeed said.
Students
As he begins his first semester at Utah Tech, Smeed emphasizes the importance of strengthening and growing academic support services.
Andy Hunter, a senior biomedical science major from Ridgefield, Washington, and student body president, said he is optimistic about working with Smeed.
“He [Smeed] does care about us [students] and everything he is doing right now is to benefit students in the future,” Hunter said.
Hunter noted Smeed’s commitment to the university’s growth and said the Utah Tech Student Association had the chance to meet with him before the semester began. Students, Hunter said, were most curious about Smeed’s character and who he is as a person.
“I don’t think students right now… aren’t super aware of a change of presidents and how it affects them,” Hunter said.
Hunter added that one of his goals is to introduce Smeed to clubs and organizations across campus so students can connect with him directly.
Faculty
From the beginning of his term, another focus has been on supporting faculty and recognizing potential issues that may arise on campus. Smeed said in order to have quality growth, supporting faculty is a priority.
Curt Walker, professor of biology and member of Faculty Senate, said: “So far, my impression of President Smeed is that he’s very friendly and gregarious. He’s very appreciative of the faculty, staff and students here.”
Smeed will continue to evaluate resources that have proven successful while also expanding opportunities through the addition of new faculty members. Smeed said that building a successful faculty all ties back to ensuring that all students can thrive at Utah Tech.
“We have to invest in our most valuable resources, which [are] our people,” Smeed said.
