SALT LAKE CITY
The head of the Utah System of Higher Education said Wednesday he would retire in December.
Richard Kendell, 64, has served as commissioner since 2003 and assisted the Board of Regents in seven searches for college presidents.
He’s known for pushing more partnerships among the state’s colleges and universities and has worked to boost enrollment and graduation rates. He received an 8 percent pay raise last week, lifting his annual salary to $200,610.
“Simply put, I have loved this appointment,” Kendell said in a statement. “However, it is time for my wife and me to move to the next phase of our lives and to enjoy, together, many of the goals and pursuits we have dreamed of and put off until now.”
Before his appointment as commissioner, Kendell served as then-Gov. Mike Leavitt’s deputy for education.
The former Ogden English teacher was superintendent in the Davis School District and has twice worked in the private sector.
– Associated Press
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