SUU and President Wyatt Named Best of State

Published: April 13, 2020 | Author: David Bishop | Read Time: 2 minutes

For the third straight year, Southern Utah University has been named the Best Educational Institution in Utah while SUU President Scott L Wyatt has been named Best College/University administrator. 

“SUU being named the best educational institution for the third straight year is a testament to the faculty, staff, students and alumni who have such a passion and extraordinary level of commitment to our university. Even with these uncertain times, this is an award we can all celebrate,” said SUU President Scott L Wyatt. “I am humbled to be named best university administrator. That recognition, however, belongs to our university community. No one person is solely responsible for this type of award.”

Best of State recognizes outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses in Utah and winners were announced in 10 different categories over the weekend. The nomination highlights SUU’s many accomplishments as an educational institution, including outstanding graduation rates, post-graduation preparedness, and low student debt.

President Wyatt’s strategic vision is driven by a dedication to innovation and improving the student experience. Under his leadership, SUU has grown an extraordinary 47% in the past five years and the university’s retention rate has climbed to 74% -- the highest rate among regional universities in Utah, and second highest among the eight Intermountain West states. SUU has also maintained a 19:1 student to teach ratio and not raised tuition or student fees for two straight years. 

By implementing programs and partnerships such as the historic Dual Enrollment program with Southwest Technical College, the 3-Year Bachelor’s Degree program, the Jumpstart program, completing several new buildings, and increasing online course offerings, President Wyatt continues to challenge the status quo of higher education. Leading by example, he serves SUU in a hands-on way, from running the 170 mile Grand to Grand Ultra Marathon to raise money for the on-campus child care facility to hosting online forums to reach students, faculty and the community during uncertain times. 

“The pandemic we are now experiencing has created extraordinary disruptions and challenges for our university, and every other university throughout the world,” said President Wyatt. “We will come out of it a stronger school. At SUU we will continue to lead innovation and remain laser focused on educating the next generation of leaders. I’m confident our university community is up to the task. It’s a thrill to work with such amazing students and colleagues.” 

For a list of all of the 2020 Best of State winners, visit www.bestofstate.org.

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Tags: Accolades

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