Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds Sharon McMahon's Selection as UVU Commencement Speaker
4/13/2026, 10:00:00 PM
Background of the Incident
Utah Valley University (UVU) has faced significant backlash following its announcement of Sharon McMahon as the 2026 commencement speaker. McMahon, a bestselling author and educator known for her nonpartisan approach, has drawn criticism for comments made shortly after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, during an event on the UVU campus. Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot, prompting national discussions on political violence and free speech.
The Core Controversy
The controversy centers on McMahon's social media posts made two days after Kirk's death, where she criticized his rhetoric. In her now-deleted posts, she stated, “To many Americans, especially if you are Black, LGBTQ or Muslim, Charlie Kirk was not a person who simply engaged in good-faith debates on college campuses.” She emphasized that the tragedy of Kirk's assassination did not erase the harm caused by his words, arguing that many felt victimized by his rhetoric. This perspective has been met with outrage from conservative students and political figures at UVU.
Reactions from UVU Community
Caleb Chilcutt, president of UVU's Turning Point USA chapter, condemned McMahon's selection, stating that her comments were disrespectful to those affected by Kirk's death. He described her posts as an effort to tarnish Kirk's name rather than a moment for mourning. Similarly, Sage Lloyd, president of UVU's College Republicans, labeled the decision to invite McMahon as an "insult," arguing that it undermines the university's values and the memory of Kirk.
Prominent political figures, including Utah Senator Mike Lee, have also criticized the decision. Lee questioned the appropriateness of inviting someone who had made disparaging remarks about Kirk immediately following his assassination, suggesting that had the roles been reversed, McMahon would not have been invited.
Official Statements
In defense of McMahon, UVU President Astrid Tuminez praised her as a "force for good" and highlighted her contributions to civic education. Tuminez stated that McMahon's work aligns with UVU's initiative to foster informed discussions. UVU's administration has noted that the responses to McMahon's selection have been largely positive, despite the vocal opposition.
Criticism and Opposition
The backlash from conservative groups has been intense, with calls for the university to reconsider its choice of speaker. Critics argue that McMahon's comments reflect a broader trend of disrespect towards conservative figures and that her presence at the commencement could exacerbate tensions on campus. The UVU College Republicans have demanded that the university prioritize preserving Kirk's legacy over promoting individuals they view as character assassins.
What's Next
As the controversy unfolds, UVU's administration has indicated it will review the concerns raised by students and alumni regarding McMahon's selection. The university faces the challenge of balancing academic freedom with the need to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment for its diverse student body.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While universities should welcome diverse viewpoints, platforming someone who treated a historic and tragic political assassination not as a moment to grieve but as an opportunity to create content is tone-deaf and disrespectful to those still affected, especially on this campus.” — Caleb Chilcutt, President of UVU's Turning Point USA
- “It is an insult to deliberately select a speaker who mocked the loss of a political figure assassinated on our beloved campus.” — Sage Lloyd, President of UVU's College Republicans
- “This isn’t the America I want to live in. I am sure Charlie Kirk and I would not agree on many things. And my heart is still broken for his family.” — Sharon McMahon, in a Facebook video following Kirk's assassination.
