Utah State University has entered a new phase of leadership, and this time, it happened behind closed doors. The Utah Board of Higher Education has named Brad Mortensen, previously at the helm of Weber State University, as USU’s new president. His appointment marks the first under Utah’s completely confidential hiring process, a system that has stirred both curiosity and criticism for removing public oversight.

Under the new model, no finalist names or professional details are shared. The reasoning, according to state officials, is to attract high-caliber applicants who might hesitate to apply if their current employers discovered their interest. Still, for many in the academic community, the secrecy has raised questions about transparency in one of the state’s most significant public institutions.

Stepping Into a Difficult Chapter

Mortensen steps into a university still recovering from turbulence. His predecessor, Elizabeth “Betsy” Cantwell, resigned abruptly after only eighteen months in office, a tenure marred by investigations into spending, football program controversies, and fractured trust among staff.

Cantwell’s departure in March came shortly after she accepted the presidency at Washington State University. Her short leadership period followed Noelle Cockett’s resignation in 2023, meaning USU has seen three presidents in less than three years. The instability has left many faculty members and students uncertain about the university’s direction.

Budget Cuts and Restructuring Ahead

One of Mortensen’s first tasks will be financial triage. The Utah Legislature has mandated sweeping budget adjustments across public universities, cutting $60.5 million statewide to reinvest in programs that prepare students for high-demand, high-wage careers. USU’s portion of the cut amounts to $12.6 million.

Before Mortensen’s arrival, interim president Alan L. Smith presented lawmakers with a proposal to streamline operations by merging several colleges and expanding nursing programs. Lawmakers, however, put the decision on hold, choosing to wait for the incoming president’s input before approving any changes. Smith’s temporary contract also prevented him from applying for the permanent role.

Cleaning Up a Legacy of Overspending

Perhaps the most pressing issue awaiting Mortensen is restoring financial accountability. A preliminary audit by the Utah Office of the Legislative Auditor General revealed widespread noncompliance with university spending policies during Cantwell’s time in office.

Public records show that over $661,000 was spent on luxury items, including vehicles, travel, new office furnishings, and a bidet, purchases that drew sharp criticism from lawmakers and taxpayers alike. Following these findings, the Utah System of Higher Education ordered an audit of all presidential expenses across public universities.

Tessa White, chair of USU’s board of trustees, has acknowledged the findings and said the university is already taking steps to strengthen oversight and rebuild internal trust.

A Moment to Rebuild

Brad Mortensen now faces a tall order: heal a fractured campus, stabilize finances, and rebuild credibility in a university that has spent the past few years under scrutiny. His leadership will not only shape the future of Utah State University but also serve as an early test of Utah’s new secretive hiring system—one that promises fresh talent but demands renewed public faith.