Southern Utah University will welcome alumnus and statesman Michael O. Leavitt as the keynote speaker for the university’s 127th annual commencement ceremony.
The ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, at 7 p.m. in the America First Event Center. It will center the year’s theme of American service and heritage to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary.
Leavitt served three terms as the 14th governor of Utah. He held two cabinet-level positions under President George W. Bush, including the roles of Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from 2003 to 2005 and the Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2005 to 2009. He will receive the Presidential Medallion of Service during the ceremony.
“As our nation marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we are proud to welcome Governor Mike Leavitt as our commencement speaker,” said SUU President Mindy Benson. “Governor Leavitt’s leadership has shaped both our state and our nation, and his example reminds our graduates that meaningful public service can leave a lasting impact.”
Leavitt earned his bachelor’s degree in business and economics from SUU and now leads Leavitt Partners, a healthcare consulting firm. The Michael O. Leavitt Center in the Sharwan Smith Student Center was named in honor of him and serves as a hub for leadership development, civic engagement and public policy education.
All are invited to attend the ceremony. Doors open at 5 p.m., and seating is first-come, first-served.
For more information, visit the university’s graduation website.
Author: Charlee Steed
Editor: Fanny Felixine
Photo courtesy of SUU
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