Jon Huntsman, Jr.
Board Member
Utahns elected business leader and former United States diplomat Jon Huntsman as governor in November 2004. Governor Huntsman is working to breathe new life into Utah by bolstering economic development, enriching public education, maintaining unparalleled quality of life, and enhancing confidence in public service.
Since assuming office in January 2005, Huntsman has achieved unprecedented tax reform and ended the threat of nuclear waste entering Utah while presiding over one of the hottest economies in the State's history. With record budget surpluses, the Huntsman Administration is focusing on providing for and supporting a competitive education system with attention on early childhood literacy and once again putting the profession of teaching on a pedestal. Governor Huntsman is also focused on health system reform as he works to identify innovative ways to provide health insurance for every Utahn. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the National Governors Association and is the Vice-Chair of the Western Governors Association.
Governor Huntsman earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania. His public service career began as a White House staff assistant to President Ronald Reagan and has included senior appointments in the Commerce Department and the State Department, as well as service as Deputy United States Trade Representative. He has twice been unanimously confirmed by the Senate as a U.S. Ambassador. He speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese.
As a public servant, Governor Huntsman begins each day with a renewed devotion to do what is best for Utah's growing population. He and his wife, Mary Kaye, have seven children, including two adopted daughters from China and India.