Brad Mortensen named 18th Utah State University President
The morning of Oct. 30, hundreds gathered in the TSC Big Blue Room for the announcement of Utah State University’s 18th president. After months of searching, the Utah Board of Higher Education announced Brad L. Mortensen, former president of Weber State University and USU alumnus, as the new university president.
“This is incredibly humbling and almost unbelievable to be here,” Mortensen said. “I can’t even say it’s fulfilling a dream because it’s beyond any dream for a first-generation college graduate to become the president at their alma mater. It’s truly just an unbelievable, unbelievable moment for me.”
Mortensen’s candidacy, as well as all other candidates for the role, was kept under secrecy until the announcement on Thursday morning, which saw attendance from student leadership, involved faculty and staff, the family of Mortensen and others.
“Tried and true leadership. He has had an incredible career down at Weber State, and he knows the landscape of higher education. He knows how to work well with community partners, especially in Utah,” said Matt Richey, 2024-2025 USUSA president and search committee member.
The board announced their time will now be dedicated to searching for Mortensen’s replacement at Weber State, which received the news of his departure at the aforementioned announcement.
Mortensen will start his new role on Nov. 10. The community will welcome the new president at an ice cream social on Nov. 7 from 3:30-5 p.m. in the Juniper Lounge in the TSC. This is one of many anticipated welcome events for the new president.
“I’m excited. I’ve only heard great things about him from Weber and those who have worked with them. He’s going to be student-first, and he’s going to be a strong change that’s going to keep our momentum growing,” said current USUSA President Brandon Sorensen.
In the front row of the announcement was interim USU President Alan L. Smith, whose time in this role was dedicated to HB 265 compliance. USU was waiting for the new president to be named before moving forward with the compliance plan.
“I also want to express my sincere appreciation to Interim President Al Smith for his leadership and commitment during this time of transition. His steady presence has provided continuity and positioned USU well for what’s ahead,” Mortensen wrote in a formal message posted by Utah State Today.
“I think everyone can agree that if we kept him for the rest of his time as president, the university would be an incredible and happy place,” Sorensen said.
Mortensen graduated from USU with his bachelor’s degree in political science in 1996.
“I am truly excited to connect with Aggie Nation through listening, learning and leading with transparency, integrity and love,” Mortensen said.