Utah Valley University Selects Sharon McMahon as Commencement Speaker Amid Criticism from Conservatives

Utah Valley University (UVU) has selected author and educator Sharon McMahon as its commencement speaker. The announcement has drawn criticism from conservative political figures and students due to McMahon's comments following the death of Charlie Kirk at the university. Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, while speaking at a campus event.

Senator Mike Lee, a Utah Republican, questioned the university's decision on X on Thursday. " On Saturday, Lee posted further comments, asking what the response would be if the situations were reversed and a conservative speaker had made similar remarks about a left-leaning figure. > "What if Charlie Kirk had been a beloved figure on the left, rather than among conservatives?

And what if Sharon McMahon were a conservative—one who had defamed Charlie Kirk immediately after his horrific assassination at UVU? " >— Senator Mike Lee (Newsweek) Salt Lake County GOP chair Mike Carey also commented on X, urging students to contact the university board. He described the invitation as an insult but stated that the goal was to provide feedback, not to cancel McMahon.

Newsweek contacted UVU for comment on Saturday afternoon.

described the shooting of Kirk as a targeted attack.

The incident occurred during a campus event at UVU, leading to national tributes from political leaders and supporters. It also raised discussions about security for public speakers and political violence.

Vice President JD Vance urged supporters to contact employers of those making such remarks. Media personalities and academics reported suspensions or firings in response to their statements.

posted comments on Instagram and Threads after Kirk's death, which have since been removed.