Snow College is looking to the future with renewed vision and purpose after the Utah Board of Higher Education approved its strategic reinvestment plan and a newly updated mission statement at its June 6 meeting. These approvals mark a significant step forward for the institution as it prepares to reallocate nearly $1.7 million over the next three years in alignment with House Bill 265, focusing on student success, workforce alignment, and the vitality of rural communities.

The strategic reinvestment plan, which now moves to the Utah Legislature for final review this September, was crafted using Snow College’s long-standing philosophy of continuous improvement. Throughout the planning process, the college relied on input from its faculty, staff, and administrators, as well as guidance from the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education (OCHE), state legislators, and community stakeholders.

President Stacee Yardley McIff emphasized that the plan reflects a united campus vision aimed at expanding student opportunities across central Utah.

“We’re grateful to the many individuals who shaped this plan–especially the Academic Review Task Force, Program Incubator Committee, Deans Council, and Cabinet,” McIff said. “With strong support from the Legislature and Commissioner’s Office, we’ve built a plan that strengthens Snow College. We’re excited to launch new and expanded programs that offer personalized, career-focused opportunities in high-demand fields across our region and state.”

The plan centers on four main themes:

• Workforce alignment
• Operational efficiencies
• Student support and success
• Commitment to thriving rural communities

As part of this reinvestment, Snow College will prioritize and grow several academic and career-focused programs, including:

• Automation Technology
• Behavioral Health
• Biology/Life Sciences
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Elementary Education
• Pre-Architecture and Drafting
• Prison Education
• Radiologic Technology
• Respiratory Therapy
• Rural Entrepreneurship
• Strategic Communication/Public Relations

These programs were chosen to meet both regional employment demands and student interest, aiming to prepare graduates for in-demand fields across Utah’s workforce, particularly in rural areas where skilled professionals are often in short supply.

Rick Robinson, Chair of Snow College’s Board of Trustees, praised the initiative, noting the alignment between the college’s leadership and its mission to empower students.

“We appreciate the support of the State Board on both our reinvestment plan and mission statement,” said Robinson. “The future of Snow College is bright, and I have every confidence in the administration, faculty, and staff. Student success is our complete focus, and the path forward for Snow College is well-defined. Snow College’s impact to our region cannot be understated; these important initiatives will enhance our communities and the entire state.”

Also approved during the meeting was an updated mission statement for the college, which now reads:

“We empower each student with a personalized path to success through comprehensive education, advanced technical training, and the confidence to create a thriving future.”

This forward-looking statement mirrors the college’s commitment to individual student achievement while reinforcing its dual role as both an academic and technical training institution. Snow College remains dedicated to providing affordable, accessible education that equips students with real-world skills and opportunities.

Founded in 1888, Snow College has deep roots in Utah’s pioneer heritage. With campuses in Ephraim and Richfield and a learning center in Nephi, the college currently serves over 5,000 students annually. Known for its affordability, small class sizes, and focus on student support, Snow College consistently ranks among the top two-year colleges in the nation.

With the strategic reinvestment plan and mission statement now moving forward, Snow College is poised to continue leading the way in rural higher education, offering programs that not only meet student needs but also contribute meaningfully to Utah’s growing economy and tight-knit communities.

For more information on Snow College’s academic offerings and future initiatives, visit www.snow.edu.