Weber State president announces departure, will continue to champion higher education in Utah
OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University’s President Brad Mortensen announced today that he accepted the position of president at his alma mater, Utah State University, where he will continue to champion higher education.
His last day as president of WSU is Nov. 7.
The Utah System of Higher Education will soon appoint an interim president to lead the university during this transition. USHE will also carry out the search for a new WSU president in the coming months.
Brad Mortensen, 13th president of Weber State
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Mortensen has called Weber State home for 21 years, including the past seven years serving as the university’s president. He describes that time as one of the “most defining periods” of his life.
During his presidency, he has led WSU to multiple recognitions for outstanding return on investment for graduates, established the Miller Advanced Research and Solutions Center in partnership with the Utah Legislature, the U.S. Air Force and the aerospace and defense industry, and overseen the establishment of new graduate education programs including the Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Other accomplishments include pioneering the first accelerated bachelor’s degree programs in the Utah System of Higher Education, gaining approval for WSU to launch 90- to 94-credit bachelor’s degrees, as well as leading WSU’s dual enrollment program to become the largest in the United States among four-year institutions in 2024.
“I’m extremely proud of where we stand as an institution,” Mortensen said. “And that makes this
opportunity at USU especially meaningful as it offers a chance to keep advocating for higher
education across Utah.”
Jessica Oyler, vice president of Student Access & Success
Jessica Oyler, vice president of Student Access & Success, has also accepted a position at USU and will serve as chief of staff. Her last day at WSU is Nov. 7.
In her 17 years at WSU, Oyler removed barriers to higher education, bolstered support services in and out of the classroom, and helped more students than ever earn a degree.
“We’ve worked hard to make sure everyone knows there’s a place for them at WSU,” Oyler said. “I know that great work will continue because it’s a shared commitment across campus, and it’s something I’ll carry with me as I continue helping students grow and achieve their goals.”
WSU’s search for a new vice president of SAS will begin soon. Until then, Ali Threet, the current Dean of Students, has been appointed to serve as interim vice president.
Marketing & Communications
- Contact:
Rachel Badali, Interim Public Relations Director
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu