Today, the Governing Group PAC, founded by former Utah State Representative Becky Edwards with a commitment to promoting civil discourse and thoughtful policymaking, is excited to unveil its leadership team. This team, comprising a senior advisor and board members, is dedicated to supporting Republican and unaffiliated candidates across Utah who share the PAC’s vision for a more respectful and productive political environment.
Introducing Our Leadership Team:
- Gary R. Herbert, Senior Advisor: The 17th governor of Utah and founder of Utah Valley University’s Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy, Herbert is renowned for his focus on economic development, education, and efficiency in governance. His extensive leadership experience provides the Governing Group PAC with strategic guidance and a deep understanding of public policy and community welfare.
- Dr. Susan R. Madsen, Board Member: As the Karen Haight Huntsman Endowed Professor of Leadership at Utah State University and the visionary Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, Dr. Madsen brings a wealth of knowledge, research, and global insight to the Governing Group PAC. Her work, spanning from local impact initiatives to international speaking engagements, positions her as a pivotal force in shaping future leaders and fostering societal change.
- Mia Love, Board Member: Former U.S. Representative for Utah’s 4th congressional district and the first black female Republican in Congress, Love is celebrated for her trailblazing leadership and advocacy on fiscal responsibility and community development. Her tenure as mayor of Saratoga Springs, Utah, showcased her commitment to public service and effective governance. As a political commentator for CNN, Love continues to influence national discourse. Her unique perspective, rooted in her Haitian-American heritage and dedication to American values, brings invaluable insight to the Governing Group PAC.
- Lowry Snow, Board Member: Former Speaker pro tempore and Republican member of the Utah House of Representatives, Snow has made significant contributions to policy reform, particularly in juvenile justice and education. His legal career as a founding partner of Snow Jensen & Reece showcases his real estate and civil litigation expertise, earning him the title of one of Utah’s Elite Lawyers. Snow’s role has extended to impactful work in economic development and judicial evaluation, demonstrating his deep commitment to Utah’s progress.
- Tami Pyfer, Board Member: Chief of Staff and VP External for UNITE, Pyfer champions efforts to bridge divisions across political and cultural lines. She is the co-creator of the Dignity Index, served as Education Policy Advisor to former Utah Governor Gary Herbert, and held elected positions on the Logan City Council and the Utah State Board of Education. With a rich history in Special Education and having taught at Utah State University, Pyfer’s diverse experience in education policy and community engagement enhances her contribution to the Governing Group PAC.
The leadership team’s unique blend of experience, dedication to fostering civil dialogue, and commitment to thoughtful policymaking is central to navigating and positively impacting Utah’s complex political landscape. “The collective wisdom and dedicated efforts of our board and senior advisor, rooted in a rich tapestry of experience and a shared commitment to elevating the discourse in Utah politics, are the driving force behind our mission,” said Becky Edwards, Founder & Board Member of the Governing Group PAC. “Their steadfast dedication to our principles of civil engagement and advancing sound policymaking is instrumental in identifying and nurturing candidates who stand to be transformative leaders for Utah.”
With its mission to endorse and support candidates who embody these principles, the first round of endorsements is slated to be announced at the end of February 2024.
Launched in December 2023, the Governing Group PAC aims to create a new paradigm of political engagement that prioritizes thoughtful policy over divisive rhetoric and civility over conflict. For further information on how to support or engage with the Governing Group PAC, please visit our website http://www.governinggroup.com.
