PennWest President Dr. Jon Anderson has been appointed president of Utah Valley University and will conclude his presidency at PennWest in August. 

The appointment follows action Friday by the Utah Board of Higher Education, the governing body for the Utah System of Higher Education. 

"Over the past two years, President Anderson has helped guide PennWest through an important period of progress and transformation,” said J.D. Dunbar, chair of the PennWest Council of Trustees. “His commitment to student success, collaboration and long-term institutional strength has positioned the university well for the future. We are grateful for his leadership and wish him well in this next chapter." 

Anderson said serving PennWest has been one of the greatest privileges of his career. 

"I am deeply grateful to the students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees and community partners who welcomed my family and worked alongside me during my time at PennWest," Anderson said.  

"Together, we accomplished important work on behalf of our students and the future of this university. While this decision was not an easy one, I leave with tremendous confidence in PennWest, its leadership and the dedicated people who will continue moving the university forward." 

During Anderson's presidency, PennWest made significant progress on a new strategic plan and comprehensive facilities master plan while redesigning its academic program array. The university also strengthened enrollment and fundraising efforts, expanded partnerships that support workforce development, experiential learning and student success, and continued creating new opportunities that position PennWest for long-term impact and growth. 

The Board of Governors of Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education will meet to appoint an interim president in the coming weeks. 

"The work underway at PennWest will continue without interruption," Dunbar said. "We have a clear roadmap for the future, and our faculty, staff and leadership team remain committed to delivering an outstanding educational experience for our students and the communities we serve." 

About PennWest University 

PennWest University is a public, multi-campus institution that connects students with purposeful education, putting their ambitions within reach. With campuses in California, Clarion, Edinboro and Global Online, PennWest combines academic quality, real-world relevance and flexible learning opportunities to support student success. Learn more at pennwest.edu.