Shattered Safety: UVU Faces New Reality After Assassination of Charlie Kirk

Fri Oct 10 2025 11:44:04 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The tragic assassination of activist Charlie Kirk has thrust Utah Valley University into the national spotlight, challenging its reputation as one of the safest campuses in the U.S.

Utah Valley University, which has been known for its safety, faces a profound identity crisis following the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk on September 10. Students, faculty, and university leaders are grappling with grief and the need to reassess security on campus after the shooting during a Kirk rally. As community members seek healing and dialogue, UVU aims to reshape its image amid heightened tensions and national scrutiny.

OREM, Utah (AP) – In a matter of seconds, Utah Valley University's reputation as one of the safest campuses in the nation was disrupted by the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. The school has transformed from a small community college into the state’s largest university with nearly 50,000 students, but the tragic events of September 10 have changed everything.

The university, previously unknown outside Utah, now finds itself under unwelcome national attention while students and faculty navigate the aftermath of Kirk's murder. Amidst grief and anxiety, they must confront a difficult question: how to cope with the sudden notoriety? Branding expert Timothy Calkins highlights the challenge, saying, “This has put the university on the map…”

University officials, currently focused on safety, also anticipate the task of reshaping their identity moving forward. VP Kyle Reyes emphasized the importance of resilience, saying the university strives to be a model for healing, not shying away from challenges.

Reports by the U.S. Department of Education show that UVU had minimal violence in previous years, reinforcing its claim to be “one of the safest colleges in the country.” However, the new reality after Kirk's murder, the first of its kind on campus, has provoked deep concerns regarding security.

Student Perspectives

Students like Marjorie Holt, who was present at Kirk’s rally, express mixed feelings of safety and anxiety while worrying about how UVU should have better secured the event. Still, she notes that the traumatic experience has surprisingly united the student body.

In the wake of the shooting, students returned to quieter classrooms, with faculty becoming more understanding of varying beliefs. Student body President Kyle Cullimore implores fellow students to embrace mutual respect amid disagreements.

Looking Ahead

Historical precedents from past school tragedies provide context as UVU navigates its response. Schools like those impacted by Columbine and Virginia Tech have undertaken significant changes post-tragedy, resulting in heightened security measures and, in some instances, a movement towards activism.

As UVU emerges from this crisis, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox has met with students to stress the importance of humanity and unification in moving past recent events, urging them to share their incredible stories beyond the confines of tragedy.