Jon Huntsman Jr. to speak at U. commencement

SALT LAKE CITY – United States Ambassador to China and former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman Jr. will return to the state to deliver the University of Utah's May commencement address.

"The University of Utah is the state's flagship university, and as governor I was proud to work with its president, Michael Young, to support its successes in leading out on innovative technologies and the cutting-edge research that has become an indispensable engine for the state's economy," Huntsman said in a statement released with the announcement. "Now, as the U.S. ambassador to China, I look forward to returning home to renew old acquaintances and getting to know this newest class of Utah's finest."

Huntsman was tapped by President Barack Obama to serve as the ambassador to China in May 2009, and his nomination was unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate. He was sworn in as ambassador immediately following his resignation as the governor of Utah on Aug. 11, 2009.

Twice elected governor of Utah, Huntsman won a record percent of the vote in 2008, including the majority in all 29 of Utah's counties. He has served as a White House staff assistant to President Ronald Reagan and served in various appointments as deputy assistant secretary of commerce for Asia, U.S. ambassador to Singapore and deputy U.S. trade representative.

Huntsman's experience in China has been developed over a lifetime of interest and involvement, as he previously lived in Asia, adopted a Chinese child and speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese.

"There is no greater friend to the U. and champion of higher education," said U. President Michael K. Young. "His international experience and the depth of his insight into Asia and world affairs is truly unique."

Huntsman, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, will speak Friday, May 7, at the Jon M. Huntsman Center on the U. campus.

"We are thrilled that he will be coming back to share his unique world perspectives with our new graduates," Young said.

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