SUU Day Celebrates Dixie Levitt's Legacy and Contributions to Higher Education

The 2023 General Legislative Session in Utah commenced on January 26, 2023, with a focus on honoring significant contributions to the community and education. The session began with a special acknowledgment of Dixie Levitt and his wife, Anne, in celebration of "SUU Day on the Hill," recognizing their longstanding commitment to Southern Utah University (SUU) and the broader community.

Dixie Levitt, a former legislator who served 18 years in the Utah legislature, was highlighted for his pivotal role in advancing educational initiatives in the state. His journey began at what was then Branch Agricultural College, where he excelled in athletics and student leadership. Levitt's legislative career included notable achievements such as sponsoring the legislation that granted four-year status to the College of Southern Utah in 1965 and the Utah Higher Education Act in 1969, which established a unified governance system for the state's higher education institutions.

A significant milestone in Levitt's career was the elevation of Southern Utah University to university status in 1991, a testament to his dedication to education. In recognition of his contributions, SUU's School of Business bears his name, reflecting both his legislative impact and philanthropic efforts through the Dixie and Ann Levitt Family Foundation. The foundation has provided scholarships and support to numerous SUU students, further solidifying the Levitts' legacy in the community.

The meeting underscored the importance of community leaders like the Levitts, who have made lasting contributions to public service and education. The session concluded with a sentiment of gratitude for their ongoing advocacy and support, emphasizing the positive influence they have had on countless lives in Southern Utah.