In Provo, Utah, a year has passed since the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University (UVU). As the anniversary approaches, the university will close its campus for the day. The institution’s new president, Dr. Jon Anderson, has shared personal connections to the event, acknowledging his daughters’ presence at the scene. Despite the tragedy, he vows to promote free speech within higher education.
President Anderson’s Commitment
Dr. Jon Anderson, who took office as UVU’s president prior to the fall 2026 semester, was previously the president of Pennsylvania Western University when Kirk was killed on September 10, 2025. Anderson’s family hails from Utah and his personal ties to the incident propelled his decision to join UVU. He expressed a strong desire to help the institution heal and move forward.
“I had two daughters and a son-in-law, they were about 10 yards from the assassination when it happened,” Anderson said. He emphasized his drive to support the community, noting the resilience and determination he has witnessed among students and staff.
A Time for Reflection
To mark the one-year anniversary of Kirk’s death, UVU will close the campus on September 10. Anderson stated, “I think one thing all of us at UVU have learned is that traumatic events, sometimes there’s an initial reaction and sometimes there is a delayed reaction. It’s important for us to be very empathetic with each other as everyone goes through the healing process in their own way.”
Although no official university event is planned, Turning Point USA will host a memorial at the UCCU Center on campus. Anderson emphasized the significance of allowing people to grieve and heal individually, expressing his support for the memorial organized by TPUSA.
Memoralizing Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk was a prominent conservative influencer and the founder of Turning Point USA. He was speaking at an event organized by the UVU chapter of TPUSA when he was shot. The group will hold a memorial on September 10 at 6:30 p.m. MT to honor his legacy. Meanwhile, efforts continue to plan a potential permanent memorial on campus, with input from board members and students.
“They’re sorting through lots of voices, getting people to the table to talk through what that might look like,” Anderson said. The aim is to create a meaningful, well-considered tribute in the future.
Free Speech and Open Dialogue
UVU remains committed to promoting free speech, despite being politically neutral. Dr. Anderson highlighted the importance of hosting discussions that embrace diverse perspectives. “We allow people to come in and focus on civil dialogue, engaging in new and good ideas,” he said. This dedication to open and honest debate aligns with the institution’s mission to foster educational growth.
Legal Proceedings
The suspected assassin, 23-year-old Tyler Robinson, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. His next court appearance is scheduled for October 23, where the possibility of facing the death penalty looms if convicted of aggravated murder.
Charlie Kirk, who was 31 at the time of his death, is survived by his wife and two children. His impact, particularly through his work with TPUSA, continues to resonate among conservative circles and the UVU community.