News Releases Utah leaders to highlight impact of sports diplomacy Sports diplomacy is a powerful catalyst for positive social change, breaking down barriers, and fostering global connections. As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict intensifies, war in Ukraine continues, and local political discourse devolves, Utah leaders will discuss how sports can build relationships, create mutual understanding and cultivate peace on Thursday, Nov. 9. Leaders will also explore the economic opportunities generated by local and international sports events such as the Olympic games, which welcomed the world to Utah and created unprecedented economic activity. (Read More) New leader at Weber State shares âbig visionâ for defense, aerospace A new leader in Utahâs defense and aerospace industry took the reins this week as Weber State University named Benjamin Garcia the executive director of the Miller Advanced Research & Solutions Center. Garcia spent the last eight years with Northrop Grumman, where he recently managed a team of scientists and engineers in high-temperature composites. Over the past decade, he has forged strong relationships with business and industry partners across the state and the U.S. (Read More) Owens empowers states to streamline workforce programs Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) introduced the One Door to Work Act, legislation to establish a state innovation demonstration authority in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). This legislation empowers states and local workforce boards to pursue innovative reforms to their workforce systems in pursuit of better outcomes for job seekers, employers, and taxpayers. (Read More) UVU celebrates National First-Gen Day by announcing new $15 million fund Utah Valley University (UVU) is marking National First-Generation College Celebration Day on Nov. 8 with an announcement of a major fundraising milestone and an acknowledgment of the thousands of Utahns who have been the first in their families to attend college. Nearly one-third of UVU students (9,933 this year) are first-generation. Over the past five years, UVU has awarded diplomas or certificates to 17,303 first-generation students. (Read More) Utahâs life sciences and health care innovation industry creates substantial economic impacts Utahâs life sciences and health care innovation (life sciences) industry creates substantial economic impacts across the state through high-paying jobs at companies in research, testing, and medical laboratories; medical devices and diagnostics; biosciences-related distribution; and therapeutics and pharmaceuticals. A new report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute details how the industry generates significant employment, earnings, and GDP impacts statewide in addition to offering high wages and strong job growth. The life sciences industry employs a diverse workforce and supports over $500 million in net positive fiscal impacts to state and local governments each year. (Read More) New wildfire resources guide unveiled from western members Today, Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus, Representatives Joe Neguse (D-CO) and John Curtis (R-UT) unveiled their Wildfire Resource Guide for the 118th Congress. The Caucus collaborated with a number of stakeholders and local leaders to develop a guide with useful information about how communities can better prepare for and recover from wildfires. View the 2024 Wildfire Resource Guide HERE. (Read More) Utah Senate Democratsâ statement on the passing of Judge Bruce Jenkins It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Judge and former State Senator Bruce S. Jenkins, a distinguished figure in Utahâs political and judicial history. As the last Democrat to hold the position of President of the Senate, Bruce leaves behind a legacy of dedicated public service. (Read More) | 