OGDEN, Utah, Dec. 6, 2018 (Gephardt Daily) — The Utah State Board of Regents has selected Brad L. Mortensen as the thirteenth president of Weber State University, it was announced Thursday.
“President Mortensen brings both institutional familiarity and broad perspective to his new role as president of Weber State University,” said Harris H. Simmons, chair of the Board of Regents, in a prepared statement.
“He is widely respected by our community partners, and is a thoughtful and effective higher education leader. Throughout his career, he has been highly focused on student success and inclusiveness. President Mortensen is passionate about Weber State University, and his experience, vision, and dedication will ensure that the institution continues to thrive.”
Mortensen was selected after a 21-member Presidential Search Committee, co-chaired by Regent Jesselie Anderson and Weber State Trustee Chair Nolan Karras, narrowed an extensive pool of applicants to four finalists, WSU said in a news release.
“I believe President Mortensen is the right president for Weber State, and his significant experience and strong commitment to students will be of great benefit to the university and the Utah System of Higher Education,” said David L. Buhler, commissioner of higher education. “I look forward to working closely with him.”
Mortensen joined Weber State in 2004 and has served as Vice President of University Advancement for 11 years. He develops partnerships and philanthropic resources that promote educational access, student success, inclusiveness, and faculty and staff vitality. He leads communication and strategic efforts to strengthen alumni and community connections, and recently began guiding Weber State’s efforts to support regional economic development. Active with several Northern Utah organizations, he has chaired the Ogden-Weber Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Northern Utah. Utah Business recognized him as 2018 CXO of the Year. His prior professional endeavors include the Utah System of Higher Education, Utah governor’s office, Arizona legislature, and two policy fellowships. Mortensen earned a bachelor’s degree from Utah State University, a master’s degree from Syracuse University, and a doctoral degree from the University of Utah.
“I am honored to be selected to lead Weber State University, and to help chart the next chapter for this great institution,” Mortensen said. “As a Wildcat for the past 14 years, I know firsthand that Weber State has strong ties to our community and is committed to the success of our students. That’s been our hallmark for 130 years. I look forward to continuing my work with faculty, staff, trustees, alumni, community, and especially students. Our Weber State family remains dedicated to providing educational access and opportunity for all.”
Earlier this year, Weber State President Charles A. Wight announced his intention to step down in May 2018. Norm Tarbox has served as interim president of Weber State since then. Interim president Tarbox will stay on until the new president is in place.
