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Nu Skin Enterprises co-founder Steven Lund told Utah lawmakers Tuesday he credits higher education with his business success.
"I believe in higher education, I'm a product of it," said Lund, a former Utah Valley University trustee. "I've seen the difference that quality education makes in the lives of other people here and around the world."
But Lund, who was recently picked by Utah Gov. Gary Herbert to serve on the state's Board of Regents, described an "intimate" and bittersweet relationship with the University of Utah, the state's flagship university.
Lund's son Tanner was diagnosed with cancer at the university's medical campus, where he received treatment for three years.
"We ultimately lost our son, but along the way gained huge love and respect for the doctors and institution that cared for him during that period of time," he told the Senate Education Confirmation Committee.
Salt Lake City Democratic Sen. Jim Dabakis praised Lund's business credentials, saying his company is an example of the 21st Century marketplace Utah is trying to develop.
Committee members voted unanimously to recommend Lund's confirmation to the Board of Regents. His confirmation is expected to be finalized when the Senate meets on Wednesday.
St. George Republican Sen. Stephen Urquhart closed the committee meeting by thanking Lund for his willingness to serve.
"You clearly are up to the task and we wish you well," he said.