In a press release from the Utah Board of Higher Education, it was announced that the board had unanimously selected Mortensen as the next president of Utah State University at its meeting Thursday.

“With over two decades of experience in higher education, Mortensen brings a demonstrated focus on affordability, value and access,” the release said. “Mortensen will assume the position on November 10, 2025. With his transition to Utah State University, the Board will soon appoint an interim president and initiate a presidential search for Weber State University to ensure continued leadership and momentum.”

Mortensen replaces Elizabeth R. Cantwell, who left USU this spring to take on the presidency at Washington State University.

Mortensen, who is an alumnus of USU, spoke at Thursday’s meeting of the Board of Higher Education following his appointment.

“For a first-generation college graduate to become the president at their alma mater is truly just an unbelievable moment for me,” he said. “Fellow Aggies, I am truly excited to connect with Aggie Nation through listening, learning and leading with transparency, integrity and love. I look forward to us collectively building a bright, bright future for Utah State University.”

While discussing his vision for USU’s future, he took a moment to acknowledge the over two decades he spent at Weber State University.

“I have been blessed to work with amazing individuals who are so passionate about the work that we do together and I’ve just had a tremendous opportunity at that institution,” he said. “Because of the nature of this announcement, they’re kind of finding out now, and I feel bad about that, but I want them to know of my appreciation and admiration for them. I can never find words to express my gratitude for those experiences. There was only one opportunity that would have ever convinced me to trade in my purple.”

Rachel Badali, interim public relations director at WSU, told the Standard-Examiner that Mortensen had a huge impact on the university.

“President Mortensen called Weber State home for more than 21 years, including the last seven years serving as president,” she said. “He accomplished so much for the university and its students. From launching new academic programs and strengthening community partnerships, to achieving record enrollment and improving student retention and completion rates.”

In the email, she included several accomplishments that Mortensen had at WSU, including:

• “Pioneered the first accelerated bachelor’s degree programs in the Utah System of Higher Education, gaining approval for WSU to launch 90- to 94-credit bachelor’s degrees
• Advanced initiatives promoting affordable education options and led WSU to multiple recognitions for outstanding return on investment for graduates
• Established the Miller Advanced Research & Solutions Center in partnership with the Utah Legislature, U.S. Air Force, and the aerospace and defense industries
• Oversaw the establishment of new graduate education programs, including the Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Led WSU’s dual enrollment program to become the largest in the U.S. among four-year institutions in 2024
• Secured nearly $400 million during his career at WSU to enhance academic, athletic, and research facilities”

Badali said Mortensen will always have a place within the Wildcat family.

“Though he’ll be greatly missed, this move to his alma mater is a win for higher education in Utah,” she said. “It provides an opportunity to continue investing in students and, together, building on our legacy of providing pathways for every student to thrive.”

She said, from here, WSU’s presidency situation is in the hands of the Utah System of Higher Education.

“The Utah System of Higher Education is responsible for appointing the interim president,” she said. “We expect to know and share that information within the next few days, before President Mortensen’s last day on Nov. 7.”

Badali said a search for a new president will begin soon after and will also be conducted by the Utah System of Higher Education.

“The next chapter will include the same dedication to quality, affordable education that WSU has always been known for,” she said. “We’ve established a lot of momentum, and that’s not slowing down.”