CEDAR CITY, Utah, July 10, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — Southern Utah University officials have announced the passing of the school’s former president, Gerald R. Sherratt.
Sherratt, 84, died Friday in Orem of health complications.
“He was the greatest promoter the University ever had,” said current SUU President, Scott L. Wyatt. “His mark is everywhere on campus, the city and the state.”
Sherratt, a Cedar City native, became the 13th president of what was then Southern Utah State College in 1982. He served in that capacity until 1997.
During his tenure, the school enrollment grew from 1,800 to more than 5,500. He successfully lobbied the Utah Legislature in 1991 to upgrade the school’s status to university.
Sixteen buildings were built during the 16 years Sherratt served, and the athletic program was elevated to NCAA Division I status.
“The SUU family mourns the loss of a great leader, mentor, friend and visionary,” said Stuart Jones, Vice President of Advancement, in a prepared statement.
“Jerry left an indelible legacy upon our campus, community and state. He will be dearly missed.”
After serving as SUU’s President, Sherratt became Cedar City’s mayor in 2001 and served two terms. During his time as mayor, he launched new projects and festivals and even trademarked the name, Festival City USA for Cedar City.
