LOGAN, Utah — Utah State University is set to celebrate its 138th commencement ceremony this spring, with esteemed honorees set to take the stage and inspire the graduating class. M. William “Willy” Lensch, a USU alumnus and associate provost for research at Harvard University, and Kem C. Gardner, a prominent real estate developer and community philanthropist, will receive honorary doctorate degrees.
Dr. M. William Lensch: Pioneering Genetics Researcher
Dr. Lensch will also serve as the Logan commencement speaker. Born and raised on a small farm in Lehi, Utah, Lensch graduated from USU in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in biology, becoming the first college graduate in his family. His academic journey continued at Oregon Health Sciences University, where he earned his doctorate in molecular and medical genetics in 2002.
Dr. Lensch’s research focuses on pediatric bone marrow failure, the onset of myeloid leukemia, and rare diseases of the blood. He pursued postdoctoral work at the prestigious Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research and later as a Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Career-Development Fellow at Boston Children’s Hospital. These experiences allowed him to delve deeper into the genetics and development of the blood-forming system.
Since 2021, Dr. Lensch has been the associate provost for research at Harvard University, a role where he provides strategic guidance for interdisciplinary research and educational initiatives across the physical, life, and social sciences. His accolades include multiple certificates of distinction in teaching from Harvard, the Star Family Prize for Excellence in Undergraduate Student Advising, and the Daniel D. Federman Staff Award for Exceptional Service from HMS.
His contributions extend beyond the academic realm. From 2016 to 2024, Dr. Lensch was a member of the advisory board of the USU College of Science, serving as chair from 2021 to 2024. Throughout his career, he has mentored and advised countless USU students, further cementing his impact within the university community.
Kem C. Gardner: A Legacy of Philanthropy and Development
Kem C. Gardner, whose roots trace back to a Wyoming farm, has emerged as a leading figure in the Intermountain West’s real estate development landscape. As the co-founder and former president of the Boyer Company L.C., he and his team have developed over 35 million square feet of commercial real estate nationwide. More recently, Gardner has founded and chaired the Gardner Company.
Gardner’s impressive portfolio includes high-profile projects such as the Gateway in downtown Salt Lake City, the Zions Bancorporation Technology Center, and the Huntsman Cancer Institute. His dedication to these ventures showcases his commitment to economic growth and public welfare.
Beyond his professional achievements, Gardner is a staunch supporter of higher education. He has served as chair of the Utah State Board of Regents and on the national advisory committees of Weber State University and Southern Utah University. In recognition of his contributions, the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah bears his name. Gardner and his wife, Carolyn, are known for their generous donations to student scholarships at various universities, including USU, the University of Utah, Southern Utah University, Weber State University, Salt Lake Community College, USU Eastern, and Boise State University.
Gardner’s philanthropic efforts have earned him several awards and honors. Since 1998, he has been a member of the executive committee of the United Way of Salt Lake, including two terms as chair. In 2004, the organization named him Compassionate Leader of the Year. His leadership was also vital during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, where he chaired the Olympic Ambassadors and the Salt Lake Board for Olympic Aid, leading substantial fundraising efforts.
His community engagement has not been limited to private endeavors. Gardner served as chair of The Salt Lake Chamber, board of trustees for Intermountain Healthcare, and the Capital Advisory Committee, responsible for crafting a 25-year master plan for Salt Lake City. For his exceptional service and achievement, he received the status of a Giant In Our City, one of Utah’s highest business honors.
Gardner’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Utah in 1967 and a juris doctorate from the same institution in 1970.
The Commencement Ceremony Details
The Logan commencement ceremony will span three days, with the academic procession and main commencement ceremony starting at 6:30 p.m. on April 30 in the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum. College-specific convocations and hooding ceremonies will take place on May 1 and 2.
To ensure safety, a clear-bag policy will be enforced during all Logan commencement ceremonies, with a maximum bag size of 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches. Small clutch purses and medically necessary bags are allowed. These guidelines align with recommendations from the Department of Homeland Security and local law enforcement.
The graduation season extends beyond Logan, with statewide USU campuses planning ceremonies between April 17 and 26. More information on these events is available on the USU Statewide Campuses commencement schedule.
To stay up-to-date with all the events and details of USU’s 138th Commencement, visit the official commencement website.
For a complete schedule and more information on the 138th USU Commencement, visit www.usu.edu/commencement.
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