The Utah Board of Higher Education convened a virtual meeting on July 9, 2026, to address several key initiatives for the state's public colleges and universities. Led by Chair Covington, the Committee of the Whole session covered topics ranging from student success to long-term budget planning.
During the meeting, Commissioner Landward presented a regional framework for a reimagined Utah system of higher education. The agenda also featured an update on student success from President Stacee McIff and federal and state updates provided by Katie Mazzie.
A significant portion of the session was dedicated to strategic and financial planning. This included a strategic plan update regarding financial value, presented by Katie Mazzie, Vic Hockseb, Tyler Dunn, Amy Andre, and President Greg Peterson. Additionally, TJ Bliss and Kim Ziebarth presented on the systemwide program plan.
Budgetary guidance was also a primary focus. Nate Talley provided details regarding the FY 2028 operating budget process, including preliminary performance funding allocations and growth funding impacts. Kevin Enright delivered guidance for the FY 2028 capital budget process, which included discussions on capital facilities submissions and project scoring criteria.
The meeting also addressed specific institutional matters, such as the disposal of real property by Mountainland Technical College, presented by Kirt Michaelis. The board also reviewed various policy updates and discussed programming requests for Weber State University nursing programs.
