At Utah Valley University, we have made a commitment to being the nation’s best open admissions platform for student success. In every corner of our campus, you will see our students thriving in their educational and extra-curricular pursuits. Academically, we have opened many wonderful new worlds of professional opportunity through new programs. From master degrees in cybersecurity and computer science to an associate degree in automotive power sports to our recently approved bachelor degrees in mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, we are ensuring our students graduate with high industry relevance and job preparedness.
Student success doesn’t just exist in the classroom, however. It can be found on the soccer fields, volleyball courts, wrestling mats, and track that are home to UVU Wolverine Athletics. In November, I had the great privilege of traveling with more than 100 Wolverine fans and support staff to watch the UVU men’s basketball team play at the University of Kentucky and Duke University in back-to-back games — what ESPN called the “toughest 24 hours in college basketball history.” Coach Mark Pope, himself a former NCAA champion, is also helping our student-athletes achieve success beyond the court by teaching and modeling hard work, strength of character, and respectful collaboration.
Several stories in this issue reflect another UVU core theme: Inclusion. The Utah Women & Leadership Project and UVU’s Women’s Success Center have championed women’s issues in education, while UVU’s Returning Wolverine program provides opportunities for former students to overcome life’s challenges and come back to UVU to earn their degrees. UVU was proud to provide the venue for the LoveLoud music festival in support of our LGBTQ+ community. And our Strategic Inclusion Plan, now in its third year, is making tremendous progress in preparing all students and employees for success in an increasingly complex, diverse, and globalized society.
These stories— and the success of every single UVU student — demonstrate that we are making tangible progress in advancing our mission. Thank you for your continued support.
Best,
Matthew S. Holland
President
