After 3 Months in Office, USU Pres. Mortensen Shares Next Steps for University

Editor's note: This message from USU President Brad L. Mortensen was sent to faculty and staff on Thursday morning.

Dear Faculty and Staff,

As January comes to a close, I want to share a few reflections and provide some context as we move into the next phase of our work together.

The past few months, including our statewide tour and inauguration, have reinforced for me just how special Utah State University is. I have felt immense pride in the people, the mission, and the impact we have across the state. Thank you for the care, energy, and commitment you bring every day in support of our students and communities.

We are now almost three months into this chapter, and together we are balancing continued listening and learning with the important work of moving forward. In the coming weeks, I will begin sharing more about our next phase of strategic planning. This work will give us a clear, shared roadmap for how we advance our priorities together and ensure that our decisions are aligned with the needs of the students and communities we serve through our mission as a statewide, R1, land-grant institution.

As we do, there will be moments where we adjust how we work and support one another, always with the goal of strengthening USU for the long term. I am committed to communicating thoughtfully and clearly as our work continues, with care for our people and appreciation for the work happening across the university. As shared earlier this week, the legislative audit will be released on Friday, and we will follow up with additional information and context shortly when it is made public by the Utah Legislative Auditor General.

What remains constant is our purpose. USU’s mission as a land-grant, student-centered research institution is strong. Our focus continues to be expanding statewide educational and economic access, supporting student success with a strong return on investment, driving discovery across critical industries, and grounding our work in integrity and civic-mindedness. We will pursue these goals together, transparently, and with a shared sense of responsibility.

Change done well is about alignment, clarity, and making sure our efforts are focused where they matter most. I am confident in this community and excited about what we will build together.

Thank you for all you do for Utah State University and for the care you show our students and one another.

Sincerely,

brad