Following his years as an elected official at the state and local level, former governor Gary Herbert partnered with Utah Valley University to create Utah’s newest public policy institute. The Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy is located in UVU’s Fugal Gateway Building in what is called “Herbert Hall.” In this space, the Herbert Institute honors the exemplary public service of Governor Herbert and is a hosting center for civil discourse for students, elected officials, and political thought leaders on UVU’s Campus.
DEVELOPS future policy leaders,
GATHERS the community, and
BUILDS TRUST in civic institutions that are the
foundation of our democratic republic.
The mission of the Herbert Institute is to increase positive civic engagement and civil discourse among students, policy leaders, and the community by developing future policy leaders;
gathering the community to engage in respectful civic dialogue; and
building trust in civic institutions that are the foundation of our democratic republic.
The Herbert Institute teaches and sponsors UVU interns from every major for state, federal, and in-house internships.
The Herbert Institute hosts forums, conferences, debates, and other events to gather the students, leaders, and the community to engage in respectful civic dialogue.
The Herbert Institute conducts and publishes research to inform the community of important topics and to recommend evidence-based solutions to policy concerns.
Thank you for visiting the Herbert Institute for Public Policy at Utah Valley University. While there are a variety of parking options available to you, we strongly encourage you to park in the UVU Parking Garage, a paid parking garage that utilizes the Passport phone application. To view more parking options, visit the UVU Parking Services website.
Want to visit or host an event with the Herbert Institute? Contact Us!
Former Utah Governor Gary R. Herbert is both the Herbert Institute founder and an essential part of the Herbert team. His founding pillars and vision continue to guide the Herbert Institute in our mission. His office can be found in Herbert Hall, where he serves as both an advisor for the Institute and a mentor to the Herbert Interns.
Gary R. Herbert was born and raised in Utah County, and spent most of his life in Orem, Utah. In high school, he was concurrently enrolled at Utah Technical College, now Utah Valley University. After graduating, he served a mission for his Church, attended Brigham Young University, and joined the Army National Guard. After finishing his military service, Herbert opened his own real estate firm, Herbert and Associates, and taught real estate classes in the Woodbury School of Business.
A successful realtor and businessman, the governor saw firsthand how decisions made by public officials can impact private enterprise. From 1990, he decided to make a difference and served as a Utah County Commissioner for over 14-years, where he gained invaluable experience that benefited his later decisions as governor.
In 2004, Herbert left his job as Utah County Commissioner to join newly elected Governor Jon Huntsman Jr. as his lieutenant governor. They were re-elected in 2008, but Herbert’s second term as lieutenant governor came to an unexpected end a year later when Governor Huntsman stepped down to become a U.S. ambassador and Gary R. Herbert suddenly became the 17th Governor of Utah. He was sworn in on August 9, 2009, and was later elected in a 2010 special election.
As governor, Gary R. Herbert led Utah’s recovery from the Great Recession to a position of national economic prominence. His unwavering focus on economic development included attracting businesses and investment to the state while helping homegrown businesses flourish.
Governor Herbert’s focus was on four cornerstones to strengthen Utah’s economy: education, jobs, energy, and self-determination. As a result, Utah has become a premier destination for business, with an unsurpassed quality of life.
As governor, he served as the Chair of the Western Governors Association and the Chair of the National Governors Association (NGA). His focus as the leader of the nation’s governors was to make the relationship between states and the federal government more collaborative, highlight state solutions and share best practices between states. The governor believes real solutions are found in the states, the real innovators, and laboratories of democracy.
Following his service, Herbert helped launch the Herbert Institute. He rejoined the UVU faculty in January of 2021 to be a lecturer and resource to the University.
Governor Herbert and his wife, Jeanette, are the proud parents of six children and 17 grandchildren.
Justin Jones was appointed Executive Director of the Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy on Aug. 1, 2021. As the director, he is responsible for the operational, financial, programmatic, fundraising and personnel activities of the Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy. He works to achieve several important Institute initiatives, including mission fulfillment and outreach with educational and business partners.
Prior to this appointment, he worked as the Senior Director of Donor Relations and Annual Giving from Nov. 2019 to Jul. 2021. He served as the Chief of Staff to two Presidents of UVU, starting in August 2016. His most recent work included directing the successful leadership transition from outgoing President Matthew S. Holland and welcoming UVU’s seventh President, Astrid S. Tuminez.
Before joining UVU, Jones worked as the Vice President of Public Policy and Communications for the Salt Lake Chamber. His primary role was to advocate for and negotiate business friendly policies focused on education, healthcare, water, and other interests with the Utah Legislature and with Utah’s Congressional delegation.
Prior to the Chamber, he directed all strategic public relations, social media, internal communications, and marketing efforts for Rio Tinto Kennecott. He lead the crisis communications efforts during the catastrophic collapse of the Bingham Canyon Mine wall.
His previous work includes working as the senior advisor to the president, government relations director, and spokesperson for the Utah Transit Authority. He worked as the communications advisor for the Utah County Health department, and a grants specialist during the administrations of Governor Michael O. Leavitt and Governor Olene Walker.
EDUCATION
PERSONAL
Justin is married with four children, two of whom are Wolverines. They live in American Fork, UT where he enjoys working in the garden, hiking in the mountains, and spending time with family. Born in Rapid City, South Dakota, he, and his family make annual pilgrimages to enjoy family while boating and other outdoor activities in the beautiful Black Hills.
Dr. David R. Connelly was most recently the Associate Provost at Utah Valley University and the Herbert Institute for Public Policy is thrilled to welcome him as our Research Director.
He is a former faculty senate president and chair of the History and Political Science Department. His primary teaching interests are in public administration with specific interests in public management, leadership, performance measurement and survey research.
David has worked extensively in economic and community development in rural areas while working for the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs (IIRA) for eight years and teaching at Western Illinois University. He has also worked developing and implementing information technology policy at the local, state and federal level while at the Center for Technology in Government (CTG) at the University at Albany.
David has a Ph.D. from the University at Albany while his M.P.A. is from Brigham Young University. His current research interests include public sector sustainability measures, rural policy, information technology applications for government and public management curriculum issues.
Erik’s passion lies in helping college students, regardless of age or background,
discover the next steps in their careers post-graduation. He firmly believes that
internships serve as pivotal experiences that transform lives, and he’s witnessed
this transformation firsthand through his work. As the Director of UVU’s Government
Internship Program, Erik collaborates closely with U.S. Senate and House staff for
the Utah delegation, and is regularly in touch with agencies such as the State Department,
the Secret Service, and other key government organizations to provide prestigious
opportunities for his students.
Under his leadership, UVU has sent a record number of legislative interns to the Utah
Capitol, surpassing previous years. Erik’s dedication to creating meaningful career-launching
experiences has left a lasting impact on both students and the institutions they serve.
Beyond his formal role, he’s been involved with the Utah Symbols Commission, the New State Flag Design Committee, and continues to serve as a judge in the Miss America Organization’s local pageants. Though his role is anchored in the Herbert Institute for Public Policy, Erik is committed to helping students from all disciplines explore and realize their career potential.
Becca Aylworth Wright was thrilled to join the team at the Herbert Institute in September, 2024. Becca received her Bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University in Community Health Science Education, but decided to make a career change to editing. She received her Certificate in Editing and Document design from Utah Valley University while creating content for LDSDaily.com. From there, Becca worked as a writer and editor at the Liahona and For the Strength of Youth magazines. She now brings her experience in writing, editing, social media, and mentoring back to UVU.
Becca and her husband, Jonathan, are raising five children, ten chickens, and one cat. She loves singing with Millennial Choirs and Orchestras, savoring dark chocolate, hiking, walking, and listening to audiobooks.
Karen Gill happily joined the Herbert Institute team as an Events Coordinator in January of 2024. Karen’s passion for Event Planning dates back to 2015 at her first position working for Bawden Capitol as an assistant/events coordinator in Manhattan, NYC, planning events for socialite clients. After 2 years she moved to Utah and found her home for the next 4 years at the University of Utah in their Continuing Education Department as a Program Coordinator. Transitioning into the tech/business world in 2021 she started out at a Startup called Sponsr and worked her way from Events Coordinator to VP of Communications in just under a year. Enthralled with the world of entrepreneurship Karen broke ground on her very own company, combining her two passions: business, and event planning, in 2023, and is the Founder and CEO of Forte Events Co.
PERSONAL
Karen is from Powhatan, Virgina and currently resides in Orem, Utah with her husband, Ty, who is pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree. Karen comes from a Deaf household and speaks American Sign Language. Karen spends her free time traveling, attending concerts, salsa dancing, singing in choirs and reading.
Dr. Troy E. Smith is a Professor and Director of the Constitutional Federalism Initiative at the Center for Constitutional Studies at Utah Valley University. He is also a fellow at the Center for the Study of Federalism and the editor of the online Federalism in America_ An Encyclopedia. He has published on the American founding, intergovernmental lobbying, presidential-congressional relations, among others. He was awarded the “Best Paper in Federalism and Intergovernmental Relations” at the 1998 APSA Annual Meeting. His academic work has appeared in Publius: The Journal of Federalism; The Review of Politics; Congress & the Presidency; Thinking Skills & Creativity; and others. Dr. Smith received a Ph.D. from the University at Albany, and an M.A. from George Washington University.
Bio coming soon.
Jonathan Barton joined the Herbert Institute as its first Administrative Support III in April 2025, bringing a diverse background in media, business, and operations. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Sound Recording Technology with a minor in Media Arts from Brigham Young University. During his final year of college, Jonathan developed a strong interest in financial services and entrepreneurship, which sparked a broader passion for business leadership.
Over the next decade, he gained experience across several industries. In Southern Utah, he successfully built a media department for an OSHA compliance company. Later, he became the first hire at a social media marketing agency in Utah County, where he worked as a Project Manager, honing his skills in marketing, advertising, and client relations. At the Herbert Institute, Jonathan now leverages his wide-ranging expertise to support efficient and effective operations across the team.
A native of Springville, Utah, Jonathan currently lives in Orem with his wife MaryAnn—an Air National Guard service member—and their four children. Outside of work, he enjoys playing the viola, wrestling with his kids, learning new languages, raising chickens, staying active, and tackling outdoor projects.
Sarah Rasmussen Bateman received her BA in Humanities from BYU and spent many years volunteering in the community and advocating for environmental sustainability. She received her M.S. from the University of Utah in International Affairs and Global Enterprise, primarily focusing on environmental diplomacy. In 2022, Sarah joined the Utah Valley University family, serving as the Sustainability Outreach Program Manager. In this new role, she supports the UVU faculty and staff who provide engaged learning opportunities, connecting students and communities in mutually beneficial partnerships.
Sarah values human connection and social resilience and is grateful for opportunities to collaborate on shared missions. She lives in Orem and loves making memories with her children –– one recent college graduate, a college junior, and one in 11th grade.
Dr. Tara Bishop is a dryland community and ecosystem ecologist asking questions about
climate change (drought and precipitation changes), wildfire, and plant-soil feedbacks.
Most of Dr. Bishop's work centers in drylands of the western United States including
the Mojave Desert, Great Basin, Sonoran and the Colorado Plateau. She utilizes experimental
studies, observational studies, remote sensing, and drone image analysis with GIS
to answer her research questions.
Dr. Bishop enjoys building relationships between scientists and decision makers, and
has been collaborating with the Herbert Institute since the fall of 2024.
Dr. Kidd joined the Mathematics Department at UVU in the fall of 2021 after completing his Ph.D. in Biostatistics from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. His goal when instructing students is to help them not only understand the concepts so that they can succeed in statistical procedures but also to incorporate additional applications so that students of all levels can recognize good and poor analyses and studies. He puts a great emphasis on critical thinking and scientific rigor.
Dr. Kidd has worked in genomic cancer research since 2014 and made genetics a focus during his Ph.D. work. His dissertation developed new statistical tests and methods for conducting mediation analysis in genetic studies.
Dr. Kidd has been providing statistical support for the Herbert Institutesince the summer of 2024, particularly with respect to ranked-choice voting.
He and his wife have four children. Running is a big part of his life; he has run four marathons, though half marathons are his preference.
Dr. Parry completed a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Duke University in 2013. After a three-year postdoc at the University of Connecticut, he joined the UVU Mathematics Department in Fall 2016. Dr. Parry loves teaching and is committed to UVU's student-centered mission.
In the past, Dr. Parry's research was in differential geometry and mathematical relativity, but more recently, he has turned towards research in mathematics education and the mathematics of elections. He has been involved with the Herbert Institute since early 2023 and has been a Faculty Fellow of the Institute since October 2023. Dr. Parry's work with the Herbert Institute has focused on ranked-choice voting.
Dr. Parry maintains a YouTube channel called Scholar Sauce that works towards making mathematics accessible, fun, andexciting for the general audience. Some of his videos discuss ranked-choice voting.
Dr. Parry and his wife have four children, some of whom are now UVU Wolverines.
Dr. Benson is an Assistant Professor in Strategic Management and Operations. He has a B.S. in Accounting from Brigham Young University, Provo; an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan; and a Ph.D. in Strategy & Entrepreneurship from the University of Michigan.
JaKell is an associate in Akin Law Firm’s corporate practice in Washington, D.C., where she advises clients on a range of transactional matters including representing utilities and other power suppliers in Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) matters, as well as renewable energy.
Prior to joining Akin, JaKell clerked for the U.S. House of Representatives, Financial Services Committee, where she researched policy issues and conducted legal research relating to digital assets. JaKell also served as a legal scholars intern for a commissioner at theSecurities and Exchange Commission.
JaKell holds a J.D. from George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School, where she was an executive editor for the George Mason Law Review. JaKell also holds an M.P.A. from the University of Utah and a B.S. in political science with a minor in constitutional studies and a certificate in engaged learning from Utah Valley University.
JaKell is the Washington, D.C., UVU Alumni chapter president an supports UVU interns in the District as resident advisor of our subsidized apartments and builds connections for UVU stuents and alumni in the D.C. area.
Rebecca is a senior at UVU studying Public Relations and Strategic Communications with a minor Political Science, focusing on a career in public affairs and political communication. Born, raised, and educated in Utah Valley, she intends to combine communication strategies with policymaking to influence public conversation, promote civic education, and create positive change.
Before joining the Herbert Institute, Rebecca gained hands-on experience in both government and community outreach. She worked as a legislative intern for the Utah State Legislature and served as the Community Relations Specialist for the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce where she developed strong interpersonal skills and learned to communicate effectively in dynamic, high-pressure environments.She also studied the foundations of the American Constitution at Oxford University and has held student leadership roles at UVU as aTocqueville Fellow in the Center for Constitutional Studies and Executive Event Ambassador for the University. In these roles, Rebecca has managed events, engaged with community leaders, and actively promoted civic education—gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of being informed and involved in the democratic process.
She joined the Herbert Institute to deepen her understanding of the Constitution, expand her network of thoughtful student leaders, and gain tools to help restore principled leadership in public life. After graduation, Rebecca hopes to work in political communications, ideally helping elected officials connect with the public in ways that are transparent, meaningful, and grounded in integrity.
Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Rebecca enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures. She is passionate about wellness and staying active through tennis, pickleball, skiing, and recently, country swing dancing.
Louyoko is studying Political Science with a focus on International Relations and Diplomacy. He has always been drawn to leadership and global affairs, especially when it comes to the future of Africa. Before joining the Herbert Institute, Louyoko had the chance to serve as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which taught him about discipline, empathy, and service. During those two years, he gained a deep love for people from different culturesand started to see how international cooperation can make a real difference.
Louyoko also worked at the Peace and Justice Studies office at UVU, where he learned more about advocacy and policy work.
Outside of school, Louyoko has been active in service organizations like the Rotaract Club in Brazzaville, and he currently serves as president of the UVU Rotaract Club.
Louyoko joined the Herbert Institute because he wanted to surround myself with people who are driven by purpose, people who care about the world and are working to make it better. He admires the Institute’s focus on leadership, service, and making a meaningful impact.
After graduation, Louyoko hopes to return to Africa with his family and work in the fields of diplomacy or international development, helping to strengthen communities, influence good governance, and build partnerships that support growth and peace on the continent.
When he's not studying or working, Louyoko loves reading (especially anything about history or leadership), traveling, and spending time through WhatsApp with his wife still in Africa. He also enjoys organizing events and youth programs that help raise awareness and bring people together around shared goals.
Bradley Smith is majoring in Chemical Engineering with an emphasis in nuclear power. His focus stems from a strong interest in energy systems and their role in advancing technology, infrastructure, and policy.
Before joining the Herbert Institute, Bradley worked as a mechanical engineering intern on a project focused on designing machines that mass-produce syringe tips. He has also led research on low-cost water filtration systems and coached individuals in endurance and strength training, building both technical experience and team leadership.
He joined the Herbert Institute to strengthen his abilities in research and analytical writing while contributing to meaningful, solution-oriented policy work. He is especially motivated by the challenge of uncovering clear answers to complex public issues.
After graduation, Bradley plans to work in the nuclear energy sector before pursuing an MBA. His long-term goal is to launch a firm that develops advanced energy solutions to support the growing demands of AI infrastructure.
In his free time, you can find Bradley skiing, lifting weights, or training for endurance races. He also enjoys reading and has a bit of chronic curiosity—he’s always looking to learn something new.
Reese Boardman is majoring in Political Science with an emphasis in Global Politics. Before joining the Herbert Institute, he spent a semester abroad in England where he studied and played soccer. He also worked at the Utah State Capitol during the legislative session, leading to his developing an interest in policy development at an international level.
Reese joined the Herbert Institute because he enjoys researching policy issues and developing potential solutions to these problems.
After graduating university, Reese plans on helping strengthen relations between the US and foreign states by serving as a Foreign Officer for the State Department.
In his free time, Reese enjoys coaching and playing soccer, backpacking, fishing, snowboarding and other outdoor activities. He also loves to read and to play chess.
Xander Greenwood is studying Geography with an emphasis in Human Geography and Urban Development. He
is passionate about understanding how places shape human experience and how development
efforts can strengthen communities globally.
Before joining the Herbert Institute, Xander spent a year in the Republic of the Congo
as a missionary. Living in an unfamiliar environment deepened his interest in global
development and in understanding the social and geographic dynamics of rapidly urbanizing
regions.
Xander joined the Herbert Institute to gain experience in research, to understand
the role of policy in science, and to develop leadership skills that will prepare
him for a career in international work.
After graduation, Xander plans to pursue a master’s degree in Human Geography and
work with NGOs abroad, applying geographic research to development and humanitarian
efforts.
Outside of school and work, Xander enjoys photography, traveling, and learning new
languages.
Londan Duffin is a senior at Utah Valley University majoring in Graphic Design with minors in French and Art History. With exceptional support from professors and mentors, he has created award-winning designs and found deep purpose in servant leadership. His previous roles on campus include Lead Intern for UVU's Presidential Internship Program and Social Media Project Lead for the Wolverine Ambassador Program. He proudly serves as the UVUSA Senator for the School of the Arts. Coupled with his role at the Herbert Institute, this involvement amplifies his passion for driving social impact and shaping policy.
Outside of the classroom, Londan enjoys thrift shopping, playing card games with family, and skillfully peeling oranges in one peel. He previously worked as Digital Creative Director for Wayfare Magazine and as a Graphic Design Intern at Faith Matters, blending his interests in fine art and theology. Londan takes pride in being a Wolverine and looks forward to future engagement in the local community.
Brooke Andersen is a Graphic Design major with a minor in art history, preparing to graduate in May 2026.
Prior to working at the Herbert Institute, Brooke's work had been featured in multiple exhibitions, and she won the student graphic design award at the UVU museum of art at Lakemount in 2024.
Despite her busy schedule at the institute, Brooke also currently works as a graphic design intern for the Utah Jazz.
After graduation, Brooke plans to start working full time doing in-house graphic design, but she also has aspirations to eventually become an elementary school art teacher.
Outside of school and work, Brooke loves spending time with friends, going on long walks, film photography, making homemade sourdough, and crafting.
Kayla is majoring in political science with a focus in global politics.
Before working for the Herbert Institute, she worked for a school district here in Utah, helping with government and community engagement as well as policy work related to education.
Kayla joined the Herbert Institute because she wanted to get more experience with policy research, and she is excited to be a part of a community here on campus.
Outside of school and work, Kayla has played the violin since she was three years old, and she loves it!
After graduation, Kayla hopes to continue working in the field of public policy and policy research.
Jade Haymore is studying Event Management and working on a minor in Business Management. She brings three years of prior event planningexperience to the Herbert Institute, but she has been the family party planner and executor for as long as she can remember.
Jade joined the Herbert Institute in Fall 2025 to learn how events and public policy can come together and to explore a different genre of event planning.
After graduation, Jade would love to be an event manager within a corporation that holds international events.
When she’s not putting on a finely tuned event, Jade enjoys playing with her dog, going to the gym, baking, and thrifting.
Bio Coming Soon.
Daisy Nielson is a digital marketing major working on a minor in Spanish. She enjoys influencer and social media marketing and hopes to run a large social media campaign here in Utah after she graduates.
Daisy got involved with the Herbert Institute because of its reputation of being a place where the team appreciates each other and collaborates well. When Daisy is not creating clever, timely content, she enjoys writing, scrapbooking, and watching scary movies.
Kaitlyn Stratton is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in operations and supply chain management and two different minors––applied data analytics and business management. She loves learning how things work behind the scenes. She has had someexperience in working behind the scenes since joining the Herbert Institute in 2025. She thought it would be a good job, but she found it to be a welcoming place with many great opportunities. She enjoys seeing the influence of public policy and its effects on the community. She has loved working here!
Prior to working at the Herbert Institute, Kaitlyn worked a summer in Alaska as a bus dispatcher and learned to manage large teams and adapt quickly to unexpected situations. She has also consulted with a few small businesses to improve process efficiency.
After graduation, she would love to continue working in project management. Shelooks forward to continuing to learn about new fields and industries and seeing how she can contribute her skills.
When she’s not in classes or at work, Kaitlyn enjoys reading and playing recreational sports. She loves logic puzzles and riddles, which has led to her creating a few escape rooms over the years for her family and friends.
Eva McCullough is a sophomore at Utah Valley University majoring in Event Management. With a passion for bringing people together and creating lasting memories, she hopes to one day run her own wedding planning business.
Eva’s love for event planning grew from experiences like organizing a prom for thespecial needs community—an opportunity that reinforced her desire to create meaningful and inclusive events.
She’s excited to intern at the Herbert Institute to gain hands-on experience and learn the behind-the-scenes details that will help shape her future career.
Outside of school and work, Eva enjoys staying active through ballroom dancing and rock climbing. She also loves spending time outdoors, reading, and sharing sweet treats with friends and family.
Aaron Tracy is studying Political Science with an emphasis in Public Law and Political Philosophy and a Minor in Constitutional Studies. He has a passion for justice and good governance in order to uphold and promote the public good.
Prior to joining the Herbert Institute, Aaron was a Wood Research Assistant and Tocqueville Fellow at the UVU Center for Constitutional Studies, working on the Quill Project and promoting civic thought and leadership. He alsoserved a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Columbus, Ohio.
Aaron joined the Herbert Institute because they both share a drive for promoting civics and government, as well as fostering students’ abilities and skills to become leaders and become engaged in the political process. Just like the Herbert Institute, Aaron wants to make a positive impact on his community. He seeks to promote civic virtue and good governance, and to grow as a future civic leader.
After graduation, Aaron aspires to attend law school and eventuallybecome a judge and serve as a public servant.
Aside from school and work, Aaron enjoys growing spiritually from tasks such as serving, being part of a church community, and studying holy writ. He also enjoys growing physically by gym to liftweights, hiking, horseback riding, football, and from various other activities.
Aaron loves learning about this great nation, specifically about the Revolution and the Founding Era.
Cade Bloomer, a political science major in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences,
has a deep-rooted passion for politics. This passion led him to intern at the Utah
State Legislature and for Utah Senator Mike Lee. During these internships, Cade actively
participated in state and federal legislative processes, and he was instrumental in
assisting constituents with their casework, a role that required him to be empathetic
and resourceful.
Cade's commitment to public service extends beyond politics. He enlisted in the Utah
Army National Guard in 2023, with a clear vision of commissioning as an active duty
US Army officer upon graduating college. His dedication to his country is truly commendable.
When Cade isn't immersed in his studies or serving his country, he can be found outdoors,
engaging in activities that reflect his vibrant personality. Whether it's hiking,
fishing, or snowboarding, Cade's love for adventure is palpable. His involvement in
the local community further underscores his commitment to making a difference.
John Nelson is pursuing a BFA in Graphic Design with a minor in Art History. He’s passionate about how design shapes communication and culture. He joined the Herbert Institute to apply his design skills in a professional setting and contribute to meaningful public policy work.
After graduation, he hopes to work in branding and editorial design, especially for organizations with a social or cultural mission. Outside of school and work, John enjoys anything bike related, spending time outdoors, and creating 2D and 3D animations.
Wyatt Robinson majored in Geography with a Certificate of Proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
William Freedman is a National Security Studies major in the College of Health and Public Service. He has lived abroad in the Ivory Coast where he learned to speak French, and has also spent time working in Washington D.C. in the House of Representatives as an intern. Through these experiences he developed a passion for nation security policy and foreign affairs.
Upon graduating college, William plans to promote American interests at home and abroad as a national security advisor. He loves our great country and is committed to advancing the cause of liberty.
Out of the classroom, William can most often be found mountain biking, backpacking, skiing, climbing, or fishing.
Canyon Moser is a graduate research assistant with a strong background in biology. After completing his undergraduate degree in the field, he chose to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching at Utah Valley University.
Canyon’s commitment to environmental issues led him to the Herbert Institute, where he contributes to research focused on environmental policy. He plans to become a high school biology teacher, where he can combine his passion for biology with his desire to make a lasting impact in the lives of young people. In his free time, Canyon enjoys spending time outdoors; whether it’s hiking, mountain biking, or playing a competitive game of pickleball.
Sophia Clark is an Event Management student at the Woodbury School of Business, set to graduate in December 2025 with a degree in Event Management and a minor in Accounting. Her passion for the beauty of bringing people together drives her enthusiasm for event planning, particularly in her role at the Herbert Institute.
In her free time, Sophia enjoys cooking, baking, practicing yoga, traveling, sewing, snow skiing during the winter, and hosting events and parties for friends and family.
No bio available.
Addison Stott is a Political Science student with an emphasis on American National Government. His passion for government and politics dates back to his eighth-grade Model United Nations experience and subsequent involvement in Model Legislature and Court. While working at the Herbert Institute, Addison hopes to inspire other students and community members to become more engaged in politics.
During his time at UVU, Addison has been involved in various campus organizations that have helped raise awareness for different issues that are deeply important to him. He is set to graduate in December 2024 and is moving toward his goal of becoming a civics teacher.
Outside of school, Addison enjoys spending time outdoors and attending concerts.
Intern's bio coming soon.
Jessica Hollingsworth is a graphic design student in the School of the Arts. Her passion in designing has led her to intern at the Herbert Institute. She will be graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design in the May of 2025. Once graduating, she is hoping to travel to the United Kingdom to pursue designing in an agency outside the country.
She loves to snowboard whenever there is snow on the mountains. If there is no snow, you will find her binging TV shows, being outdoors, reading, and painting.
No bio available.
When Robert came across the Herbert Institute internship, he immediately recognized Governor Herbert’s name, and knew the experience would expose him to state and local government and provide him with unique perspectives for my future career.
From Executive Director, Justin Jones and Governor Herbert, Eldredge learned how to develop a plan and implement it with a positive attitude. They taught him that being willing to work with those around me, regardless of political association, would enable me to succeed in my goals. The Herbert Institute was the first place where he felt his work would make a real impact and where he could put his education to use.
The Herbert Institute prepared Eldredge to relocate to Washington, DC, where he is pursuing his master’s degree in security studies at Georgetown University. He hopes to continue to conduct research and contribute to the future of arms control agreements and the modernization of the U.S. nuclear triad.
Mike Erickson is a criminal justice student in the College of Health and Public Service. Mike's passion for law and the United States Constitution led him to intern at the Utah State Legislature and under Senator Mike Lee of Utah, where he gained invaluable insights into the legislative process at both the state and federal levels.
He is deeply engaged in exploring the world of public policy and has served in civics clubs and student organizations on campus. Currently, Mike is preparing for the LSAT as he works towards his goal of attending law school in the coming years.
Outside of school, Mike finds satisfaction in camping and gardening.
Intern's bio coming soon.
Noah is a Business Management student in the UVU Woodbury School of Business. He became involved with the Herbert Institute in Spring 2023. He is currently involved in the institute's initiative to promote thriving, resilient communities in the state of Utah, and is passionate about contributing to Utah's plan for growth and helping to create spaces that will be enjoyed by its residents for generations to come.
Noah is the vice president of the Chess Club at UVU and volunteers with Utah's Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission, where he observes and evaluates the performance of judges who are up for a vote on retention. Following graduation, he plans to continue his education by attending law school.
Noah is originally from Boise, Idaho. Prior to living in Utah, Noah served as a church missionary in North and South Dakota. He and his wife now live in Provo, Utah, and enjoy frequent visits to Boise to visit family.
Mikelle is a political science student with a concentration in public law and political philosophy. She started working with the Herbert Institute as a research intern in May 2023, where her work focused on election processes, including voter ballot access and registration as well as voter responsibilities.
In her time at UVU, Mikelle has had the opportunity to work with professors on research projects about the public stigma of ex-convicts and the effects of Ban the Box on employment. She is currently a senior at UVU and is expected to graduate in May 2024. After graduating, Mikelle hopes to complete an MBA or MPP before finding work as a policy researcher for private companies.
Mikelle grew up in Cedar Hills, Utah. Some of her personal passions are volleyball, horseback riding, and reading fantasy novels. Her hobbies include driving up the canyon, attending farmer’s markets, and handmaking jewelry.
McKenna is a political science student with a concentration in Public Law and Political Philosophy, she is also receiving a minor in Constitutional Studies. She has previously interned at the Utah State Legislature. This opportunity led her to begin working with the Herbert Institute in May 2022 as a research intern focusing on elections and policy issues in the state. She is currently interning for a Congressional office during the Spring Semester.
In preparation for attending law school, McKenna is studying for the LSAT and has hopes to practice law and later run for public office.
In her free time, she likes to spend time with her husband and dog.
Gary R. Herbert Institute of Public Policy by UVU Photo on Exposure
