USU Names Valentina Salotti Next Dean of Huntsman School
Valentina Salotti.
After a nationwide search, Utah State University has named Valentina Salotti as the next dean of the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business, effective Jan. 1, 2027.
“Valentina brings strong academic and leadership experience from a fellow land-grant research university, along with a deep commitment to students, collaborative leadership, and connecting higher education with industry and the communities we serve,” USU President Brad L. Mortensen said.
Valentina joins USU from Iowa State University, where she began her academic career and currently serves as the senior associate dean for academic affairs at the Ivy College of Business. She also previously served as an associate dean for undergraduate programs. Salotti received a bachelor’s in economics, a master’s in banking and finance, and a Ph.D. in finance from the University of Bologna, Italy.
“What drew me to the Huntsman School and Utah State University was not only their record of excellence and dedication to the land-grant mission, but also their people,” Salotti said. “I felt their warmth, their pride in this community, and their genuine commitment to helping students thrive. I look forward to making Logan our home and am excited to work alongside this community to build on the Huntsman School’s remarkable momentum.”
Salotti will be the second dean of the Huntsman School since its naming nearly 20 years ago. In his announcement to faculty and staff about Salotti’s appointment, USU Provost Chris Corcoran reflected on the significance of the moment and this transition.
“Throughout the search, we were looking for a leader who could build on the school's strengths while bringing new perspectives and ideas, strengthening collaboration and culture, and positioning the Huntsman School for its next chapter,” Corcoran said. “Valentina stood out as the right leader for this moment. She is thoughtful, collaborative, and student-centered, and she understands the opportunities and responsibilities that come with being part of a land-grant, research university.”
Mortensen also thanked Frank Caliendo for his leadership and service as the interim dean of the Huntsman School of Business, a role he will continue through the end of the year.
The president will host a reception welcoming Salotti and celebrating David Huntsman’s service on the board of trustees at 4 p.m. Sept. 18 at the Perry Pavilion.
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