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The University of Utah trustees elected H. David Burton as their new board chairman during a brief teleconference Friday morning.
The position was previously held by trustee Michele Mattsson. Phillip Clinger will continue in his position as vice chairman.
"David will be a great chair," Clinger said after Friday's vote. "I think he has some unique skills that will come in very handy and be very valuable to the board, especially with legislative issues going forward."
Burton also serves as board chairman of the Utah Transit Authority, a position he has held since September 2014. The organization came under fire in recent months after a decision was made, and later reversed, to close board committee meetings to the public.
A U. alumnus, Burton is an emeritus general authority for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as the church's presiding bishop between 1995 and 2012.
After his unanimous election as chairman, Burton thanked his fellow trustees for their endorsement and support.
"I look forward to having a great year," he said.
Twitter: @bjaminwood