Hale, 47, stepped into the job this week. Hale will lobby for the Orem college at the Legislature, working with state and government officials to promote growth of the school.

He also will serve as a liaison between UVSC and the surrounding community, and will oversee the college's economic development initiatives.

Helping UVSC push for university status is "certainly on the agenda," Hale said.

"I hope to help educate people in the valley as well as the Legislature about the important role UVSC plays in higher education in the county and state."

Hale was fired from his BYU post just days after the BYU football team opened its 2004 season with a 20-17 victory over Notre Dame.

The 35-year resident of Orem has served as a consultant on UVSC's Community Relations Council since last fall.

- Shinika Sykes