Southern Utah University will welcome former Utah Governor Michael O. Leavitt as the keynote speaker for its 2026 commencement ceremony, marking a significant moment for graduating Thunderbirds and the Cedar City community.

 

Governor Leavitt, who served as Utah's chief executive from 1993 to 2003 before joining President George W. Bush's cabinet as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and later Secretary of Health and Human Services, brings a wealth of experience and perspective to SUU's graduates.

 

The ceremony will celebrate the achievements of hundreds of students earning degrees across SUU's diverse academic programs, from business and education to performing arts and sciences. This year's graduating class represents one of the university's largest cohorts, reflecting SUU's continued growth and reputation as a premier regional institution.

 

"Having Governor Leavitt address our graduates is truly an honor," said SUU President Mindy Benson. "His journey from Utah public service to national leadership exemplifies the kind of impact our graduates can make in their communities and beyond."

 

Leavitt's address is expected to focus on public service, leadership in challenging times, and the importance of education in shaping Utah's future. His connection to Southern Utah runs deep—during his governorship, he championed rural development and higher education initiatives that directly benefited the region.

 

The graduation ceremony will take place at SUU's outdoor amphitheater, weather permitting, with the stunning red rock landscape providing a dramatic backdrop for this milestone moment. Families and friends from across the state and nation are expected to converge on Cedar City for the celebration.

 

For many graduates, this commencement marks not just the end of their academic journey but the beginning of careers in fields critical to Utah's economy and communities. SUU's emphasis on hands-on learning and community engagement has prepared these students to make immediate contributions in their chosen fields.

 

The ceremony also comes at a time when SUU is celebrating record enrollment and expanding academic programs, positioning the university as a vital educational resource for Southern Utah and beyond

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As graduates cross the stage to receive their diplomas, they'll carry forward SUU's legacy of excellence and the inspiration of a speaker who has demonstrated what's possible with dedication, vision, and commitment to public service.