A Message to All Aggies from USU's Next President, Brad L. Mortensen

Editor's note: the following is a message from USU's next president, Brad Mortensen

Dear Aggie Family,

I am honored and excited to join Utah State University as its 18th president. From my first experiences with the Aggie community over 30 years ago, it has always been clear that USU is a place where people care deeply about students, one another, and the impact that this R1 land-grant university has across Utah. That genuine commitment to people and purpose stood out. I’m proud to be returning on Nov. 10 to a community that helped shape who I am today.

As a first-generation college graduate who found his path at Utah State, I believe deeply in a future where every student, no matter where they come from, has the opportunity to succeed here. Together, we will keep students at the heart of all we do. At a statewide institution like Utah State, students thrive because the entire system is built around them and for them. We will expand access, strengthen success, and remove barriers wherever they appear. Our work will be guided by integrity, transparency, and a deep belief in the transformative power of higher education to change lives and strengthen our state.

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.

As we move forward, my first priority is to listen and learn. Over the coming weeks, I will be holding a town hall, visiting campuses, and sitting down with students, faculty, and staff. I want to hear what makes you proud, where challenges remain, where we as an institution need to do better, and how we can foster a stronger sense of belonging across USU. Asking these questions and acting on what we learn is how we build trust, unify our work, and deliver meaningful outcomes for students and communities.

I’m grateful for the important work already in motion and understand the urgency of moving several priorities forward, including securing approval of our HB 265 plan. As we continue that momentum, I look forward to strengthening trust and collaboration across the institution and with external partners, advancing our strategic plan and Aggie Impact campaign, and driving innovation aligned with Utah’s workforce and community needs. Throughout this work, we will ensure every person who comes here feels heard, respected, energized, and like they truly belong.

To support this important work, I have asked Dr. Jessica Oyler, Vice President for Student Access & Success at Weber State, to join me as Chief of Staff. Jessica brings a strong commitment to students and collaboration. She will partner closely with faculty, staff, and students to help ensure our priorities move forward with clarity and momentum. I know she will be a thoughtful listener and a strong advocate for the Aggie community.

What lies ahead is an opportunity to honor Utah State’s proud traditions while charting new paths aligned with Utah’s future. I am grateful to be joining this remarkable university and excited for what we will accomplish together.

Best,

brad

Brad L. Mortensen, Incoming President