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In 1897 the founders of Southern Utah University believed so strongly in the power of education that they risked their lives and finances for the privilege of building and hosting an institution of higher education in rural Cedar City.
The university's first 125 years were built with fortitude, determination, and community triumph which are now woven into the fabric of SUU. The next 125 years will build on that rich legacy with an even deeper focus on a caring campus culture, accessible and affordable education, and connections to the community that helped build the University.
President Mindy Benson, the first female president, as well as the first president in SUU's history to have been born and raised in Cedar City and educated at SUU, is seizing the momentum of the university to help shape its future.
"This inauguration, with its symbolism and timeless tradition, is so much bigger than the investiture of a new president," Benson said in her inaugural address. "This special occasion is an opportunity for our T-Bird family to pause and remember our heritage and the foundation upon which we are built. To celebrate who we are today and the many ways we positively impact the lives of students, families and communities. And to look ahead and envision a bold and boundless future for Southern Utah University."
Higher education is facing serious challenges. Record numbers of students are struggling with mental health issues, as are the faculty and staff who support them. Students, parents, and taxpayers are increasingly concerned about the cost of a college education, rising student debt, and the value of higher education, while universities are concerned about the decline in student enrollments due to a looming demographic cliff.
In spite of the great challenges ahead, Benson said she is optimistic. She has honed in on five areas of opportunity for SUU and plans to use them as the foundation to build upon in the years to come. As president, she will make the people and the place the cornerstone of the University by focusing on the following areas.
- Increasing access and affordability
- Cultivating a culture of caring
- Enhancing well-being and student success
- Enriching the academic experience
- Expanding alumni and community engagement.
"SUU will be a place where we find fulfillment and happiness because of our meaningful relationships," Benson said. "And where we learn and grow, build memories, and where we write a shared narrative of experiences which tie generations together and define who we are as individuals and as T-Birds. Let's commit to leave this place, and our community and world, better tomorrow than it is today."
SUU's enduring legacy is built on 125 years of heroes, past, present and future, who each have played a role in helping SUU flourish and prosper. When it opened in 1898, the school was home to just 5 faculty and 118 students; today SUU has 1,100 faculty and staff and 15,000 students. Over the past decade, SUU has been one of the fastest-growing regional universities in the country.
Through SUU's growth, the campus remains committed to personalized education encouraging deep and meaningful connections among our students, faculty and staff, which has led to increased student retention and graduation rates. SUU is thriving today and will continue creating a future overflowing with possibility.
Southern Utah University
Founded in 1897, Southern Utah University is celebrating its rich history and preparing for a bright future with a yearlong celebration. Learn more at suu.edu/125.
