Utah Capitol Preservation Board Unanimously Names North Capitol Building After Former Governor Michael O. Leavitt
Why It Matters
Utah’s Capitol Hill Complex is gaining a named landmark in recognition of one of the state’s most prominent modern leaders. The designation honors a governor whose tenure shaped both state government and national policy, and whose legacy is now embedded into the physical fabric of Utah’s civic center.
What Happened
The Capitol Preservation Board (CPB) voted unanimously on May 7 to name the North Capitol Building after former Governor Michael O. Leavitt, citing his foundational role in the stewardship of Utah’s Capitol Hill Complex.
Leavitt served as Utah’s 14th governor from 1993 to 2003, and the CPB itself was created by the Utah Legislature and Governor Leavitt in 1998 to oversee the care, preservation, and long-term planning of the Capitol campus. Following his time as governor, Leavitt went on to serve in President George W. Bush’s cabinet, first as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and later as secretary of Health and Human Services.
The North Capitol Building is designed to expand public access, support state functions, and host civic gatherings. It will also serve as the permanent home of the Museum of Utah. A formal public ceremony honoring Leavitt and marking the building’s official naming will take place at a future date.
In Their Own Words
Governor Spencer J. Cox called the designation appropriate given Leavitt’s record. “Governor Leavitt’s legacy of careful stewardship and long-term vision makes this naming a fitting tribute,” Cox said in remarks following the vote.
Senate President J. Stuart Adams noted the generational dimension of Leavitt’s work. “He understood that what we build and preserve today shapes the future we leave to the next generation,” Adams said.
House Speaker Mike Schultz emphasized Leavitt’s commitment to public access. “His leadership helped ensure this campus remains a place where every Utahn can come to be heard,” Schultz said.
By the Numbers
- 1993–2003: Leavitt’s tenure as Utah’s 14th governor
- 1998: Year the Capitol Preservation Board was established under Leavitt’s leadership
- Nearly 30 years of CPB oversight of the Capitol Hill Complex since its creation
- 2 federal cabinet roles held by Leavitt following his governorship
- 1 unanimous vote by the CPB to approve the naming
Zoom Out
The naming reflects a broader tradition of honoring state leaders who shaped public institutions — particularly those whose influence extended beyond the statehouse into federal policy. Leavitt remains one of Utah’s most nationally recognized political figures, with policy work that continues to draw attention through forums like the Hatch Center’s convening of experts on fiscal outlook and national security.
Utah has in recent years made significant investments in public civic infrastructure, including major fundraising efforts at state institutions such as Utah Valley University’s landmark $254 million EverGREEN Campaign, reflecting the state’s ongoing commitment to building durable public assets.
What’s Next
The Capitol Preservation Board has indicated a public dedication ceremony will be scheduled at a later date. No timeline has been announced for the formal event honoring former Governor Leavitt and the building’s new designation.