“This is a moment of reinvention for the University of Utah,” President Taylor Randall said earlier this year at the launch of the Impact 2030 plan. “We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a model public university for the future—one that delivers unsurpassed societal impact through student success, research excellence, and community engagement.”
On Friday, May 16, the university submitted a draft of phase one of its reinvestment plan to the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE), part of a three-year process to reallocate $19.6 million of state appropriated funds as required by House Bill 265 (HB 265). University leaders have emphasized that the changes required under the bill are not happening in isolation, but as part of a broader transformation already underway through Impact 2030.
The phased approach—spanning three years—is designed to ensure thoughtful implementation that strengthens the university’s momentum toward long-term goals while aligning with HB 265’s priorities to improve completion rates and strengthen workforce readiness.
While some institutions have shared details of their plans, the University of Utah—facing the largest share of the systemwide reallocations—is working closely with USHE to allow for adjustments during the review period. Final numbers will be released following the board’s June 6 approval. In the meantime, university leaders are in active discussion with state officials and campus stakeholders to shape a plan that aligns with both institutional goals and the intent of HB 265.
The university’s response to the bill builds on more than a year of strategic planning focused on long-range priorities and operational improvements. Designed to prepare the institution for future challenges, this work is now guiding reinvestment decisions to ensure they are mission-aligned, sustainable, and supportive of long-term goals.
More than a year ago, university leaders asked colleges and units to model 10–25% budget scenarios in anticipation of funding shifts—a proactive step that positioned the U to respond strategically when HB 265 was enacted. At the same time, efforts to modernize administrative structures and streamline operations laid the groundwork to reinvest resources where they will have the greatest impact on students, researchers, and communities across Utah.
As internal planning gained momentum, the university continued refining its strategic vision. In January 2025, President Randall outlined to the Utah Legislature a bold agenda to strengthen societal impact, drive innovation in areas like artificial intelligence, energy, and genetics, and deepen partnerships with government and industry. That vision came into sharper focus in April with the launch of Impact 2030—a plan centered on student success, research innovation, health care, and broader societal contributions.
These planning efforts build on momentum already underway—including expanded enrollment, improved graduation and placement rates, growth in research funding, and increasing capacity to serve the state’s evolving needs.
Reinvestment Plan Deadlines
- June 6: Submitted plans presented to the Utah Board of Higher Education
- June 30: Utah Board of Higher Education issues final approval
- August 19: Review by the Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee
- September 15: Executive Appropriations Committee approval