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SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate on Wednesday officially confirmed Geoffrey Landward as the commissioner of higher education.
Landward was initially appointed by the Utah Board of Higher Education in March and was approved by Utah Gov. Spencer Cox during Senate floor time on Wednesday.
"With Commissioner Landward's extensive expertise in public policy and law, he is well-equipped to lead our state's higher education system," Utah State Senate President J. Stuart Adams said in a statement. "I have full confidence in his ability to collaborate effectively with the Board of Higher Education, institutional leaders and governmental partners to ensure the continued success of Utah's higher education landscape."
Before his role as commissioner, Landward served as the state's interim commissioner since September, and deputy commissioner and secretary to the Utah Board of Higher Education prior to that. In total, he has eight years of experience working with the system and over a decade of public policy work under his belt.
"I am grateful for the Senate's trust and confidence with its confirmation today. I look forward to partnering with educators, administrators, policymakers, the Board of Higher Education and industry leaders to enhance education across the state and provide exceptional opportunities for students," Landward said in a statement.
Amanda Covington, Utah Board of Higher Education chairwoman, said in a statement the board is "honored" to work alongside Landward.
In addition to his background in education and public policy, Landward brings extensive executive leadership experience and 20 years of legal expertise in administrative law, education law and employment law to his new role.
"He brings incredible experience and a deep understanding of higher education in Utah. Commissioner Landward works proactively and collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure students are prioritized and that we continue to support economic opportunities and growth," Covington said.
Landward is the 10th person to serve as the commissioner of higher education for the Utah System of Higher Education.
