October 14, 2008
For Immediate Release
For an Interview:
David Smith
(801) 473-4669
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, member of the first presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), will make his way to Utah Valley University to speak to students on how to be successful in a globalizing world. The event will take place in the McKay Events Center Oct. 28 at 11 a.m.
"We were very excited to hear that President Uchtdorf would be taking the time to speak to UVU students," said Joseph Watkins, UVU student body president. "Utah Valley University will hear and learn from a man who has been through the struggles of education and life and came out on top in the professional world."
Uchtdorf was selected because of his renowned airline experience and long list of accomplishments. He joined Lufthansa German Airlines as a pilot in 1965, and worked as an airline captain for over 25 years. He has experience flying multiple types of airplanes, but completed his career with the B747. He also served in several executive positions, including head of the airline pilot school, director of in-flight services and head of cockpit crews.
Although Uchtdorf led a distinguished career, he left everything when he was asked to become a member of LDS church leadership. At the time of his call he was the senior vice president of flight operations and chief pilot of Lufthansa German Airlines. He was also chairman of the Flight Operations Committee of the International Air Transport Association.
"I personally feel that this is such a great opportunity to have such a well known figure in the community and in the world speak to the students on this campus," Watkins said. "The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not really on the college speaking circuit. It’s a rare opportunity to have the leader of such a large group speak to our school."
Uchtdorf was invited to UVU’s campus by UVU Student Association (UVUSA). All UVU students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to attend the event.
# # #
College Marketing Contact:
Erin Spurgeon
(801) 863-6807
Written by:
Hanna Hopkinson
(801) 863-7205