**Controversy at UVU: The Commencement Speaker Choice Sparks Outrage**
In a twist that has left students and alumni reeling, Utah Valley University (UVU) has announced its selection for the 2026 commencement speaker: Sharon McMahon. This decision has ignited a firestorm of debate, particularly in light of recent events on campus, including the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk just a few months prior. Many, including Caleb Chilkut, president of the Turning Point USA (TPUSA) chapter at UVU, are questioning the admission of McMahon, a figure whose past comments have been perceived as deeply disrespectful to Charlie and his supporters.
Just days after Charlie’s assassination on September 10th, 2025, McMahon took to social media to make remarks that many interpreted as derogatory. These comments included out-of-context quotes that some believe tarnished Charlie’s legacy, painting him in a negative light and ignoring the nuances of the debates he engaged in. When public backlash arose, she deleted her post but later issued a vague statement expressing a general disavowal of political violence. For many, this felt inadequate and tonedeaf, especially considering the sensitive context surrounding Charlie’s untimely death.
Caleb did not take this lightly and felt compelled to voice the sentiments of not just his members but many other students who are still grappling with the aftershocks of Charlie’s assassination. He described McMahon’s selection as a “slap in the face,” especially given the weight of the tragedy on campus. The irony that a figure who previously leveraged Charlie’s assassination for content would now be celebrated as a guest speaker made it all the more poignant. Caleb noted that UVU should be representing diverse viewpoints, but not at the cost of honoring those who have suffered from recent events.
On campus, the reaction has been mixed. While Caleb and other conservative students express their disappointment, there are those who celebrate McMahon’s invitation as a victory over Charlie’s supporters. This schism highlights the growing divide between differing perspectives on free speech and the nature of dialogue in academic spaces. Caleb underscored that students have the right to express their discontent with this decision, emphasizing that free speech is indeed a two-way street.
In light of this situation, the UVU administration has been notably silent. Many students are calling for transparency and an acknowledgment of the hurt this decision has caused within the community. Caleb and his chapter remain focused on a positive path forward, honoring Charlie’s legacy with the creation of a memorial on campus, a beacon of hope amidst the turbulence. Emphasizing the importance of the recent events, Caleb is committed to ensuring that Charlie’s legacy is preserved while advocating for an atmosphere at UVU where respectful dialogue can flourish.
As this controversy continues to unfold, it poses critical questions about how institutions handle the weight of tragedy, the importance of respectful discourse, and how to sincerely honor individuals who have made significant impacts in society. The call is not just for better choices in speakers but for the university to demonstrate an understanding of its students’ experiences and foster an environment that truly respects the memories of those lost. The ball is squarely in UVU’s court, and how they respond could set the tone for future discourse on campus.
