Key Legislative Leader Backs UVSC Bid for University Status

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) Utah Valley State College's bid to become a university has the backing of a powerful Utah lawmaker. Senate President John Valentine is sponsoring a measure to pump 10-million new dollars toward the school every year. The money will help UVSC expand its undergraduate degree offerings and add graduate programs and staff.

This is the first measure Valentine has sponsored since taking his post as Senate President two years ago. Generally he prefers to focus on steering the Republican majority in the Senate, rather than impose his own agenda. Valentine's measure also includes a nod for his preference of a new school name - Utah Valley University.

Even if lawmakers approve the 10-million dollar ongoing appropriation, it could be several years before the transition to university is complete.

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