Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Utah Valley University Faces Backlash Over Commencement Speaker Choice

4/16/2026

26 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Utah Valley University is facing criticism for selecting author Sharon McMahon as its commencement speaker.
Caleb Chilcutt, Turning Point USA at UVU chapter president, calls the selection a "slap to the face."
Jason Chaffetz, former congressman, calls the choice a "horrific" one.
McMahon stated that Kirk's death does not negate the harm of his rhetoric, which has upset many students.

1 of 1

Story summary

Utah Valley University is facing criticism for selecting author Sharon McMahon as its commencement speaker.
Caleb Chilcutt, Turning Point USA at UVU chapter president, calls the selection a "slap to the face."
Jason Chaffetz, former congressman, calls the choice a "horrific" one.
McMahon stated that Kirk's death does not negate the harm of his rhetoric, which has upset many students.