The Utah Board of Higher Education announced Friday that it has unanimously chosen Jon Anderson, Ph.D., as the next president of Utah Valley University. Anderson will succeed Astrid S. Tuminez, who stepped down on May 1 after leading the university for seven and a half years.
Anderson currently serves as the president of Pennsylvania Western University. He is scheduled to officially begin his role as UVU’s eighth president on August 10, 2026.
A Utah native and graduate of Bingham High School, Anderson earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from Utah State University and an associate degree from Ricks College. He holds a Ph.D. in business administration from the University of Kentucky.
Anderson's professional background includes significant leadership roles within the Utah System of Higher Education. From 2020 until mid-2024, he served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Southern Utah University in Cedar City. During his tenure there, he chaired the campus COVID-1ary task force and helped develop approximately 100 new academic programs.
In a university release, Anderson expressed that he is honored to lead the institution and noted that UVU's commitment to student access aligns with his personal beliefs. He also stated his eagerness to work with students, faculty, and local partners following his path through Utah's public school system.
The appointment received support from various campus leaders. UVU Trustee Shauna Smith, a member of the search committee, stated that the board's unanimous vote reflects confidence in Anderson's leadership and his experience within the Utah system. Student Body President Herby Fullmer and Faculty Senate President Evelyn Porter also expressed their readiness to collaborate with the new president.
Anderson takes over an institution characterized by significant growth. Under the previous administration of Astrid S. Tuminez, UVU saw enrollment increases of more than 20% and the development of a 225-acre campus in Vineyard.
Astrid S. Tuminez stepped down to focus on family and personal pursuits following a period of personal loss and campus tragedy. During the transition period between May 1 and August 10, longtime Provost Wayne Vaught, Ph.D., has served as acting president to maintain leadership stability.
