Utah Valley University MPA students attended the annual Legislative Preview hosted by ASPA Utah and the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. Guided by Dr. David A. McEntire, students engaged directly with state lawmakers and policy experts to explore key issues shaping the upcoming 2026 legislative session.
Students from Utah Valley University’s Master of Public Administration program traveled to Salt Lake City on December 11, 2025, for the annual Legislative Preview hosted by the Utah Chapter of ASPA and the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. Accompanied by Dr. David A. McEntire, the group spent the day hearing directly from state lawmakers and policy leaders about the issues expected to shape the 2026 legislative session, which begins later this month.
Participation in the event reflected UVU’s emphasis on engaged, hands-on learning. Students interacted with policymakers, asked questions, and observed how legislative priorities take shape within Utah’s political landscape. The experience provided a practical look at the processes they will encounter in public service roles throughout their careers.
Lawmakers in attendance included Representative Tyler Clancy, Representative Sahara Hayes, Senator Jen Plumb, and Senator Jerry Stevenson. Members of the bipartisan group of politicians each offered perspectives on statewide challenges ranging from public health to budgeting to community safety. Their remarks gave students a clearer understanding of the competing priorities and negotiations that drive state policy.
“One of the most impactful moments was hearing representatives from both sides of the aisle discuss how they collaborate to serve their constituents,” said student Natalie Baldwin. “It reinforced why experiences like the ASPA Legislative Preview are so valuable for MPA students.”
During a working lunch, students discussed the presentations, compared insights, and reflected on how the real-world exposure aligned with their academic preparation and future career goals. For many, the event offered clarity about the types of public service roles they hope to pursue after graduation.
By the end of the day, students left with a stronger understanding of Utah’s legislative process and a clearer sense of the professional spaces they may enter. The visit underscored UVU’s commitment to providing students with real‑world experiences that prepare them for meaningful careers in public administration. This approach reflects the university’s mission to empower students through engaged, practical learning that translates directly into their future work.
[Above: Students from left to right: Lu Muy, Tara Gailey, Matthew Arscott, Lee Chestnut, Natalie Baldwin, Elizabeth Dean]
