Utah may not be the first state that comes to mind when people think about global health. However, from life-sciences innovation and university research to humanitarian service and maternal health, the state is making a meaningful contribution to improving health around the world.
Last week, the Kyle House Group and the University of Utah brought together Sen. John Curtis (R-Utah), former Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah), and leaders from across Utah’s global health community to discuss the state’s contributions and the future of U.S. global health investment.
The Case for American Leadership
Opening the public event, Sen. Curtis emphasized that global health is closely tied to American economic and national security interests. With approximately 500,000 Utah jobs connected to global economies through trade and $27 billion in annual international trade, the state has a clear stake in global stability and economic development.
When it comes to global health, Curtis also underscored that it’s important to remember infectious diseases do not respect borders. Investments in disease prevention and research and stronger health systems abroad can help protect American communities at home.
At the same time, he stressed the importance of fiscal responsibility, accountability, and ensuring that U.S. investments deliver measurable results. He pointed to PEPFAR, the bipartisan initiative to combat HIV/AIDS, as an example of the extraordinary impact sustained global health investment can achieve.
Former Rep. Stewart echoed his stances and underscored the importance of maintaining America's commitment to global health while ensuring resources are used effectively. He also highlighted the role philanthropy can play, alongside government resources, to create a funding ecosystem for global health.
Utah’s Global Impact
The discussion showcased the breadth of Utah’s contributions to global health. Federal global health research investments have directed more than $93 million to Utah institutions and supported more than 1,500 jobs, while the state’s life-sciences companies are advancing innovations in diagnostics, infectious disease prevention, maternal health, and medical technology.
Utah’s impact extends well beyond research and industry. The state’s faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and philanthropies are working around the world on maternal and newborn health, nutrition, clean water, humanitarian response, and food security.
One example is Salt Lake City-based Kirk Humanitarian, which has helped provide multiple micronutrient supplements to more than 75 million pregnant women in over 100 countries. Its additional $50 million commitment through the UNICEF-led Child Nutrition Fund is intended to reach another 23 million mothers and babies.
Bringing Utah’s Global Health Community Together
The event convened leaders from across Utah’s global health community, including Chloe Cooney of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance; Kelvyn Cullimore of BioUtah; Joseph Featherstone of Co-Diagnostics; Andy Hemmert of bioMérieux; Delara Hosseini of Utah Global Diplomacy; Amanda McConnell of the Ouelessebougou Alliance; Juan Carlos Negrette of University of Utah Health; Heidi Ruster of the American Red Cross; and Maura Weaver of the Eleanor Crook Foundation.
Their work demonstrates how research, private-sector innovation, philanthropy, and humanitarian partnerships can complement one another to address global health challenges.
As traditional sources of development assistance face increasing pressure, the path forward will require stronger partnerships, innovative financing, and a focus on sustainable, measurable results. States can play an important role in this approach and Utah is a prime example.
The Kyle House Group is grateful to Sen. Curtis, former Rep. Stewart, the University of Utah, and all participating organizations for advancing this important conversation. Utah’s example demonstrates how innovation and service can work together to save lives, strengthen communities, and advance American interests around the world.
