Kevin J Worthen

Kevin J Worthen is a distinguished legal scholar and educator, serving as President of Brigham Young University (2014-2023) and currently holding the Hugh W. Colton Professorship of Law at BYU’s J. Reuben Clark Law School. He also serves as the first Wheatley Institute Distinguished Fellow in Constitutional Government and a Distinguished Visiting Professor at Yale Law School. A Fulbright Scholar, his expertise spans Native American law, legal ethics, and institutional leadership.

Education:

• Bachelor’s in Political Science, Brigham Young University (summa cum laude)
• Juris Doctor, BYU Law School (valedictorian)

Research Interests: Focuses on indigenous legal rights, cultural assimilation, and the intersection of law with religious and ethical principles. His Fulbright research in South America examined native populations’ legal challenges. He also writes on marriage, sports ethics, and leadership.

Leadership Roles:

• Dean of J. Reuben Clark Law School (2004-2008)
• BYU Advancement Vice President (2008-2014)
• BYU President (2014-2023)

Awards & Honors:

• Fulbright Scholar
• BYU Wheatley Institute Distinguished Fellow
• Yale Law School Distinguished Visiting Professor

Key Contributions: Championed initiatives like the Inspiring Learning Initiative and BYU Office of Belonging. Negotiated major NCAA transitions and ESPN contracts. Authored over 50 speeches and articles on law, religion, and education.

Community Service: Served as a bishop, stake president, and Area Seventy in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.