Interim president named at Utah State University
Feb 12, 2025, 7:21 PM
The Utah Board of Higher Education has appointed Alan L. Smith. Ph.D. as the interim president of the Utah State University. (Utah State University)
(Utah State University)
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Board of Higher Education has appointed Alan L. Smith. Ph.D. as interim president of Utah State University according to a statement released on Tuesday.
This appointment comes after the university announced the departure of the current USU president, Elizabeth R. Cantwell. Cantwell is expected to take over as president of Washington State University on April 1, 2025.
Smith has been at USU since 2021 and is currently serving as dean at the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services.
FILE: The Old Main Building at Utah State University in Logan is pictured on Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. Alan L. Smith. Ph.D. has been named the school’s interim president. (Laura Seitz, Deseret News)
“I am honored to serve Utah State University in this interim role and to support our students, faculty and staff during this transition,” said Smith.
“USU is a remarkable institution with a strong legacy of excellence in research, teaching and community engagement. I look forward to working closely with campus and system leaders to ensure stability and continued momentum as the search for the next president moves forward.”
USU interim president’s specialties
According to the Board’s statement, Smith is known for his research on peer relationships in physical activity settings and the role of sport in youth development.
He has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Rochester and a Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Alan L. Smith received a Ph.D. in Exercise and Movement Science from the University of Oregon.
“Alan Smith is a dedicated leader with a deep commitment to Utah State University, its research mission and its role as the state’s land grant institution,” said Amanda Covington, Utah Board of Higher Education chair.
Students walk on the campus of Utah State University in Logan on Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. Alan L. Smith. Ph.D. has been named the school’s interim president. (Laura Seitz, Deseret News)
“His background as a scholar, administrator and advocate for research makes him well-prepared to lead USU through this transition.”
Once a new president is appointed Smith will return as dean of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services.
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