WEBER COUNTY — The Utah Board of Higher Education appointed Leslie Durham, Ph.D., as interim president for Weber State University (WSU) at its Executive Committee meeting Thursday. The appointment came a week after WSU President Brad L. Mortensen was named the next president of Utah State University.
Dr. Durham will assume the role of interim president at WSU on Nov. 10. She currently serves as the provost and senior vice president of academic affairs at the university, bringing over 15 years of experience in higher education leadership.
Durham’s background includes extensive work at Boise State University, where she served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Her focus there included improving student success, increasing research expenditures, and launching new academic programs while stabilizing the college’s financial position.
“I am honored to serve as interim president of Weber State University during this transition,” Durham said. “Weber State is a remarkable institution, and I look forward to working closely with the students and campus community to ensure continuity, stability and continued progress in the months ahead.”
Board Chair Amanda Covington praised Durham, stating, “Her collaborative approach and background in academic affairs, performance measurement, student success, and community partnerships will ensure steady leadership for Weber State during this transition.”
Durham will lead WSU while the Utah Board of Higher Education determines the long-term leader for the university.