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Past presidents of the University of Utah


The university only counts presidents who have served since the name of the institution officially changed to the University of Utah, beginning with John R. Park. The count also includes individuals, not actual terms. The presidents and their years of service are:

Ruth V. Watkins

Ruth V. Watkins

2018-2021

David W. Pershing

David W. Pershing

2012-2018

Michael K. Young

Michael K. Young

2004-2011

Bernie Machen

Bernie Machen

1998-2004

Arthur K. Smith

Arthur K. Smith

1991-1997

Chase N. Peterson

Chase N. Peterson

1983-1991

David P. Gardner

David P. Gardner

1973-1983

Alfred C. Emery

Alfred C. Emery

1971-1973

James C. Fletcher

James C. Fletcher

1964-1971

A. Ray Olpin

A. Ray Olpin

1946-1964

LeRoy E. Cowles

LeRoy E. Cowles

1941-1946

George Thomas

George Thomas

1921-1941

John A. Widtsoe

John A. Widtsoe

1916-1921

James E. Talmage

James E. Talmage

1894-1897

Joseph T. Kingsbury

Joseph T. Kingsbury

1892-1894, 1897-1916

John R. Park

John R. Park

1869-1892