Celebrating a Decade of Impact: Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute Unveils 2 New Reports on @theU

The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah recently marked its 10th anniversary with a special dinner called “Leading with Light.” Since 2015, this Institute has become a key resource for economic, demographic, and public policy research in Utah.

University of Utah President Taylor Randall praised the Institute’s work, saying it plays a crucial role in enabling leaders to make informed decisions. He emphasized that the Institute’s reliable data and thoughtful analysis support the university’s mission to create positive societal impacts.

To celebrate this milestone, the Gardner Institute published its 2025 Report to the Community. This report showcases their significant research efforts over the years, including:

• COVID-19: Sharing essential data and insights during the pandemic.
• Long-term Projections: Offering forecasts for Utah’s economy and population.
• Housing Affordability: Investigating the challenges of housing costs in Utah and exploring potential solutions.
• Olympic Games: Assessing the economic implications of the upcoming 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
• Great Salt Lake: Collaborating with the Great Salt Lake Strike Team to address water management issues and the lake’s decline.

Director Natalie Gochnour highlighted the importance of teamwork at the Institute, crediting their dedicated staff and community partners for their achievements. She expressed excitement for the future as the Institute aims to extend its impact over the next decade.

Alongside the community report, the Gardner Institute released two other publications. One of them, titled Keepers of the Flame: Utah’s Olympic-Sized Opportunity, focuses on how Utah can utilize the 2034 Games to tackle pressing state issues and enhance its economic standing. Gochnour noted that this global event offers a unique chance for strategic investments and innovative solutions that can benefit Utah in the long run.

The second report, the Utah Community Needs report, identifies the main challenges faced by low- and moderate-income residents, particularly concerning affordable housing and community services. It emphasizes how financial institutions can play a role in addressing these needs through the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA).

As the Institute looks toward the future, their commitment to impactful research and community engagement remains strong, promising to shape Utah’s path for years to come.

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The University of Utah, UofU, The U, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute commemorates 10 years of impact and releases 2 new reports – @theU