​For nearly a decade, Sutherland Institute has been blessed by the leadership of President and CEO Rick Larsen. Our state and nation have faced some of the most tumultuous political and policy debates over these years, and the essential role that Sutherland plays on these fronts has never been more necessary – or more impactful – than under Rick’s leadership.

Too often, organizations that wade into policy debates become mired in political tribalism or myopic victories, failing to recognize the need for steady, principled, and visionary leadership. Rick’s leadership has kept Sutherland grounded in constitutional values and presented an aspirational vision for the State of Utah to remain faithful to America’s founding ideals and the flourishing of its civic institutions.

At this time in our nation’s history, the uniqueness of Utah – its vibrant faith institutions, its strong families, its commitment to free enterprise and constitutional governance – must be protected and offered as a beacon to the nation. Sutherland’s essential role in protecting those American ideals through public policy debates and civic engagement has been a hallmark accomplishment of Rick’s tenure.

The new year marks the conclusion of Rick’s time as president and CEO of Sutherland Institute. As the institute’s board of directors, we congratulate Rick on this legacy of making sound ideas broadly popular. More importantly, we express our thanks.

The challenges that Utah and the United States face in the coming years will be consequential, but as Rick has articulated, they need not be existential. Indeed, his exhortation that “the time-tested values and principles that created America can also rescue America” is an essential message that Sutherland stands for now and in the future.

A commitment to the constitutional and civic fabric that has allowed America and Utah to flourish equips all citizens to tackle today’s challenges with a renewed sense of civic unity. Rick has lived this ideal as president and CEO of Sutherland. And our organization, our state, and our nation, are better for it as a result.