Gov. Mike Leavitt appointed recently retired LDS Church architect Keith Stepan as the new director of the Division of Facilities and Construction Management.
Working for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the managing director of temple construction projects, Stepan oversaw the construction of numerous temples in four years. During his 30-year architect career, Stepan has helped design buildings now considered Utah landmarks, including the original Salt Palace, University of Utah Huntsman Center, BYU Marriott Center, Crossroads Plaza and Tower and the LDS Conference Center.
In his new position, Stepan will oversee state building construction projects and maintenance.
"Keith brings with him an incredible wealth of leadership, expertise and a great relationship with the architectural, construction and engineering communities," said Camille Anthony, executive director of the Department of Administrative Services for the State of Utah, in a written statement.
Stepan will succeed Joe Jenkins, who is leaving the division to serve an LDS mission in Zimbabwe, Africa.
"I look forward to building on the legacy and professionalism that Joe Jenkins has brought to this position," Stepan said.