The evolution from publicity to strategy—and why clarity, credibility, and trust still win

Public relations has quietly undergone a transformation. Once viewed as the domain of press releases, press kits, and publicists working the phones, it has evolved into something far more strategic—and far more essential to a business’s long-term success.

Today, PR isn’t about one-time media hits or splashy coverage. It’s about building clarity, credibility, and trust over time—across multiple channels, audiences, and platforms. The press release may no longer be the primary vehicle, but the principles behind effective PR are more relevant than ever.

We live in an era where trust is scarce. According to the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer, only 42% of Americans trust the media to do what is right. Businesses now find themselves in a position once held by institutions—expected to lead with transparency and to earn credibility through consistent communication, not polished spin.

Strategic communications has stepped in to fill that role. It combines brand messaging, thought leadership, stakeholder engagement, and media positioning into a single discipline that shapes perception and drives authority.

Public relations, in its modern form, operates upstream. It informs brand voice, crisis readiness, internal culture, investor messaging, and digital positioning. It is proactive, not reactive. According to McKinsey & Company, companies that align messaging and operations across functions are 3.5 times more likely to outperform peers in both growth and trust.

That alignment starts with clarity—something many organizations underestimate. Vague, jargon-filled language may feel impressive, but it rarely connects with real people. Clarity requires intention. It’s the result of deep messaging work, not a quick headline tweak. And it’s at the center of how today’s PR earns attention in a world where attention is expensive.

Modern PR also extends beyond traditional media. In fact, Pew Research shows that less than one-third of U.S. adults regularly consume news from national outlets. That means relying on “coverage” alone is no longer a sustainable strategy. Organizations must own their story across owned channels—websites, social media, podcasts, email—while building visibility in earned spaces like industry publications and curated speaking opportunities.

What’s working? Story-first communication strategies rooted in the problems customers actually face. Subject-matter expertise that drives authentic thought leadership. A consistent narrative that runs from internal talking points to public-facing interviews.

And at the center of it all: a communications leader who understands how to bring it together. Whether in-house or fractional, this role is increasingly vital. It’s why more companies are hiring strategic communications partners to act as a kind of fractional Chief Communications Officer—ensuring alignment from boardroom to newsroom.

The traditional tools of PR aren’t gone. But they are no longer the heart of the discipline. The press release has its place, especially in regulated industries or significant milestones. But it can’t carry a brand. Not on its own.

The most effective organizations are those who treat public relations as a leadership function, not a support service. They don’t chase hype—they build reputation. And they do it by communicating clearly, consistently, and strategically.

That’s the evolution of PR. And that’s why it matters more now than ever.

Sources:
• Edelman Trust Barometer 2024
• Pew Research Center, Journalism & Media Reports
• McKinsey & Co. “Connecting Communication to Performance” Report

When organizations struggle to grow, they often look outward: more leads, more traffic, better sales tools.

But sustainable growth doesn’t begin by doing more. It begins by communicating better.

Most businesses don’t realize they’re stuck in obscurity until the silence becomes deafening. The phones slow down. The interest fades. The market becomes unresponsive—not because the offering isn’t valuable, but because the messaging isn’t clear.

Why Most Businesses Stay in Obscurity

If your message is confusing, inconsistent, or full of insider jargon, three things start to happen:

1. You lose audience trust
People rarely pause to figure out what you mean. In a noisy marketplace, they scroll past unclear brands without a second thought.

2. You lose internal alignment
When your sales, marketing, and leadership teams are telling slightly different stories, confusion creeps in. That lack of alignment creates inefficiencies and erodes team momentum.

3. You lose opportunities
Media outlets pass over your pitch. Customers hesitate to buy. Potential partners don’t see the value in collaboration. The story didn’t land—because it wasn’t sharp enough to stick.

As Harvard Business Review puts it:
“The biggest messaging mistake companies make is assuming people understand what they do.”

What Strategic Messaging Fixes
Clear messaging isn’t about being flashy—it’s about being unmistakable. At Maloy PR, we help organizations escape obscurity by:
    •    Clarifying the message for real people (not just internal teams)
    •    Creating consistency across every public touchpoint
    •    Aligning external communication with internal strategy

With the right messaging, people don’t just hear what you offer—they remember it, and they care.

The Framework We Use

​1. Clarify the Core
We start by identifying what truly sets your organization apart. Then we craft a message that delivers that value in direct, compelling language.

2. Align Every Channel
From websites to pitches to interviews, we help unify your brand voice so it sounds clear, confident, and credible everywhere.

3. Activate for Visibility
We don’t just write the message—we position it where it can gain traction, earn trust, and drive results.

Donald Miller, author of Building a StoryBrand, says:
“People don’t buy the best products—they buy the ones they can understand the fastest.”

And Forrester Research reinforces this:
“Strategic messaging that is aligned across channels is a key driver of market momentum.”

The bottom line? Your biggest threat likely isn’t your competitors. It’s obscurity. And the best way to fight obscurity is with strategic clarity.

To get your messaging out of obscurity, give us call at MaloyPR.com.

Sources:
•    Donald Miller, Building a StoryBrand
•    Harvard Business Review: “Why Brand Messaging Fails”
•    Forrester Research: “Messaging That Drives Market Momentum”

​In today’s unpredictable business world, crises can emerge from anywhere, threatening reputations, operations, and stakeholder confidence. Whether it’s a product failure, a data breach, or negative public sentiment, preparation is your best defense against the storm clouds of a crisis. Businesses that plan and communicate effectively during crises not only limit damage but often emerge stronger. Cory Maloy, founder and CEO of Maloy PR, said, “A crisis is not the time to scramble. Preparation and decisive action allow businesses to manage challenges while maintaining trust and credibility.”
 
Here are seven essential strategies to help your business prepare for and navigate a crisis:
 
1. Create a Comprehensive Crisis Communication Plan

Every business needs a roadmap to guide them through potential crises. A robust crisis communication plan should outline risks, assign roles, and establish clear response protocols. According to the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), including pre-approved messaging and updated contact lists of key stakeholders, media contacts, response teams, and employees, ensures fast response. Regular simulations test the plan’s effectiveness, keeping teams ready for real-world challenges.
 
2. Build Relationships with Key Stakeholders Before a Crisis

Establishing strong relationships with stakeholders—employees, customers, media, and community leaders—before a crisis helps foster goodwill. The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) emphasizes that trust built during stable times often determines stakeholder support during turbulent times.
 
3. Monitor Media and Public Sentiment Proactively

A crisis can escalate quickly in today’s social media-driven environment. Tools like Meltwater, Cision, and Google Alerts help businesses track public sentiment and identify red flags early. IABC highlights that real-time monitoring is essential for detecting potential issues before they spiral out of control.
 
4. Train Spokespersons and Employees

Inconsistent messaging during a crisis can amplify confusion and mistrust. Regularly train spokespersons to handle media inquiries with confidence, while also educating employees on internal protocols. Maloy said, “Your employees are your ambassadors. They need clear guidance to ensure their actions align with the company’s message.”
 
5. Act Quickly with Transparency and Empathy

Speed and honesty are crucial when addressing a crisis. Research from the Edelman Trust Barometer shows that transparency, paired with empathy, reassures stakeholders and fosters loyalty. Acknowledge the issue, outline corrective actions, and prioritize those impacted to demonstrate accountability.
 
6. Leverage Technology for Communication Efficiency

Technology can streamline crisis communication efforts. Platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams allow internal teams to collaborate in real time, while email marketing tools and social media channels ensure consistent external messaging. According to the Center for Crisis and Risk Communication (CCRC), leveraging technology reduces delays and enhances accuracy in delivering information.
 
7. Conduct a Post-Crisis Review and Update Your Plan
​
After the crisis subsides, it’s crucial to review what happened, analyze your response, and identify areas for improvement. Update your crisis communication plan based on these learnings to strengthen your preparedness for the future. The CCRC recommends involving all key stakeholders in this review to ensure comprehensive feedback.
 
Businesses that prepare for crises and act decisively are better positioned to navigate challenges and protect their reputations. Maloy PR specializes in helping companies develop and execute crisis communication strategies tailored to their unique needs. With decades of experience in public relations, crisis management, and strategic communications, Maloy PR is a trusted partner for businesses looking to safeguard their future.
 
Contact Maloy PR today to learn more about crafting a crisis communication plan or managing an ongoing crisis. 
 
Sources

1. Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) – Crisis Communication Handbook (PRSA.org)
2. International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) – Crisis Communication Resources (IABC.com)
3. Edelman Trust Barometer – Transparency and Trust in Crisis (Edelman.com)
4. Center for Crisis and Risk Communication (CCRC) – Post-Crisis Analysis Framework (CenterForCrisisCommunications.com)

In today’s fast-paced market, the biggest challenge businesses face isn’t competition—it’s obscurity. If your audience doesn’t know you exist, if they don’t recognize your value, or if they simply don’t remember your name, then you’re already behind. Visibility is the foundation of success, yet many companies struggle to break through the noise.

Businesses that succeed don’t just offer great products or services—they actively shape their presence, control their messaging, and position themselves as the go-to choice in their industry. If you’re not consistently showing up where your audience is looking, someone else will take your place.

Clarity: The First Step to Visibility

Before you can increase your visibility, your brand message must be crystal clear. Many companies struggle to connect with their audience because their messaging is vague, confusing, or too broad. If you’re speaking to everyone, you’re reaching no one.

Brand expert Marty Neumeier puts it this way: “If you’re not different, you’re invisible.” Differentiation isn’t just about having a unique product—it’s about telling your story in a way that immediately resonates with the right audience.

Successful businesses have a clearly defined message that answers three critical questions:
• Who are you?
• What problem do you solve?
• Why should people trust you over competitors?

When your message is clear, it’s easier for customers, investors, and media to understand your value—and to share your story with others.

Credibility: Visibility Without Trust Is Just Noise

Being seen is only part of the equation—being trusted is what drives action. In an era where consumers are more skeptical than ever, credibility is the currency of influence. Businesses that invest in thought leadership, earned media, and expert positioning are the ones that rise above the competition.

A 2023 study by Edelman found that 63% of consumers trust experts and industry leaders over traditional advertising. This means that your reputation is built more on what others say about you than what you say about yourself.

One of the most effective ways to build trust is through earned media—being featured in reputable publications, speaking at industry events, and contributing valuable insights to key conversations. When your expertise is validated by third-party sources, your credibility grows exponentially.

Consistency: The Key to Staying Top of Mind

A one-time PR campaign or social media burst won’t make you a household name. Consistent, strategic visibility is what keeps brands relevant. The businesses that dominate their industries aren’t necessarily the most innovative or best-funded—they are simply the ones that refuse to be forgotten.

Consistency comes from showing up regularly where your audience is already paying attention:
• Posting valuable thought leadership content on LinkedIn and industry platforms
• Engaging in public conversations relevant to your expertise

• Sharing media wins, customer success stories, and industry insights

The key isn’t just to be present—it’s to be present with purpose. When you consistently reinforce your message, you stay top-of-mind when it matters most.

Visibility Is Your Competitive Advantage

Most businesses aren’t failing because of poor quality or lack of effort. They’re failing because too few people know who they are and why they matter.

If you want to break out of obscurity and position yourself as an industry leader, you must take control of your visibility. Your brand should be seen, heard, and recognized for its expertise.

At Maloy PR, we specialize in helping businesses eliminate obscurity with strategic PR, thought leadership, and media positioning. If you’re ready to elevate your brand, let’s start the conversation. Schedule a planning session at MaloyPR.com.

Sources:
• Neumeier, Marty. Zag: The Number One Strategy of High-Performance Brands.
• Edelman Trust Barometer 2023.

LEHI, Utah, Jan. 6, 2025--Maloy PR, a full-service public relations agency based in Utah’s Silicon Slopes, has officially launched a rebrand to reinforce its mission of helping businesses combat obscurity and achieve meaningful growth.
​
Since 2017, Maloy PR has partnered with businesses to address the critical challenge of standing out in crowded markets. The rebrand reflects the agency’s commitment to empowering clients with visibility, credibility, and influence through tailored public relations solutions.
 
“Obscurity is more than an obstacle—it’s a barrier to success,” said Cory Maloy, founder and CEO of Maloy PR. “Every business has a story worth telling. Our mission is to help ensure those stories are heard, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.”
 
Maloy PR specializes in media outreach, strategic messaging, thought leadership, and crisis communication, delivering customized strategies that elevate brands above the noise. Complementary services, such as digital marketing, rebranding, and fractional Chief Communications Officer support, round out the agency’s PR-first approach to integrated communications.
 
The agency’s team of PR experts combines decades of experience with a client-centric philosophy, focusing on clear storytelling and outcomes. “We understand the toll obscurity takes on businesses,” Maloy said. “That’s why we provide solutions designed to replace the struggle with visibility and growth.”
 
Since its inception, Maloy PR has helped clients across diverse industries achieve national media coverage, strengthen brand recognition, and drive audience engagement. The rebrand underscores the agency’s readiness to expand its reach and support more businesses in taking their place in the spotlight.
 
“This rebrand is about embracing the future,” said Maloy. “We’re evolving as an agency to help our clients grow and thrive in ways they’ve always dreamed of.”
 
About Maloy PR
Founded in 2017, Maloy PR is a leading public relations agency specializing in strategic communications that build visibility, trust, and influence. Based in Silicon Slopes, the agency delivers results-driven services including media outreach, thought leadership, crisis communication, digital marketing, and fractional CCO support. Maloypr.com
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Obscurity holds many businesses back, making it hard to connect with their audience. Maloy PR removes that barrier with strategic communications, turning your brand into a trusted, recognizable name that stands out in crowded markets. Rooted in Silicon Slopes—the fastest-growing business hub in the United States—we offer tailored public relations solutions that build your brand, engage your audience, and position you for success. With decades of experience and a lean, efficient structure, we deliver big-agency results at small-business prices.

Every business has a story worth telling but getting that story in front of the right audience can be daunting. Maloy PR bridges that gap by creating a personalized communications plan for every client. We craft compelling messaging and content designed to resonate with your audience. We leverage our extensive media connections to secure earned media opportunities, ensuring your story reaches the right platforms. For companies facing challenges, we provide expert crisis communication strategies to safeguard your reputation and rebuild trust. In addition, we position clients as thought leaders in their industries, elevating their credibility and influence through expertly crafted campaigns. Whether you’re looking to connect with customers, stakeholders, or the public at large, our approach combines creativity, strategy, and execution to deliver measurable results.

What sets Maloy PR apart is our commitment to providing high-value solutions without the high costs typically associated with traditional PR firms. We don’t have expensive overhead or one-size-fits-all programs. Instead, we focus on delivering affordable, customized strategies that meet your specific needs and drive real impact. Based in Lehi, Utah, we’re proud to call Silicon Slopes our home and to help businesses in our community and beyond thrive in a competitive marketplace. Our expertise spans a wide range of public relations disciplines. From messaging and media relations to crisis management and thought leadership, we design and execute strategies that amplify your voice and create meaningful connections with your audience.

At the helm of Maloy PR is Cory Maloy, a seasoned PR strategist with decades of experience helping businesses break through barriers and achieve their goals. Cory’s unique approach combines a deep understanding of communication principles with a personal commitment to his clients’ success. He believes in the power of storytelling to transform brands, influence perception, and drive action. Clients of Maloy PR benefit not only from Cory’s expertise but also from his ability to build lasting relationships and offer guidance rooted in empathy and authenticity. It’s this combination of technical skill and human connection that makes Maloy PR an invaluable partner.

The essence of our work is helping companies overcome obscurity by making their stories matter. At Maloy PR, we believe that strategic communication is more than a service—it’s a partnership. When you succeed, so do we. Our goal is to ensure that your message not only reaches your audience but also inspires trust, loyalty, and action. Imagine your brand standing out in a crowded market, with a clear and compelling message that resonates with your audience. Imagine being recognized as a leader in your field, with media coverage that highlights your achievements and enhances your credibility. Imagine having a trusted partner who understands your vision and works tirelessly to bring it to life. That’s what you get with Maloy PR.

​If your business is ready to rise above the noise, Maloy PR is here to help. We combine decades of expertise, a proven track record, and a passion for storytelling to craft PR programs that deliver results. Reach out today, and let’s start building a brighter future for your brand. For more information, visit MaloyPR.com. Together, we’ll ensure your story is one that people remember.

​Public relations (PR) has dramatically evolved, driven by rapid advancements in digital technology and the changing dynamics of media consumption. PR strategies have shifted from early reliance on press releases and traditional media to widespread content marketing and social media adoption. This article explores the transformation of PR, focusing on how digital campaigns shape the future of public relations.
 
The Early Days: Press Releases and Traditional Media
 
In the early 20th century, PR professionals relied heavily on press releases to communicate with journalists and secure media coverage. Traditional media channels, including newspapers, magazines, radio, and television, were the primary outlets for reaching the public. PR professionals dedicated significant time to cultivating relationships with journalists, crafting compelling pitches, and managing the flow of information between their clients and the media.
 
The traditional approach was practical for its time, with a few key players controlling the dissemination of information. However, this model limited audience interaction and feedback, leaving brands to rely solely on the media’s interpretation and portrayal of their messages.
 
The Digital Revolution: A New Era for PR
 
The advent of the Internet and the rise of digital technology marked a pivotal moment for PR, ushering in a new era in which brands could communicate directly with their audiences through websites, blogs, and online news outlets. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn emerged as essential tools for real-time communication and audience engagement.
 
The shift from one-way communication to two-way engagement was revolutionary. Brands could now create dialogues, listen to feedback, and respond promptly, making PR more interactive and responsive. This transformation allowed for greater control over messaging and fostered more robust connections between brands and their audiences.
 
Digital platforms also democratize information, allowing smaller brands to reach wider audiences without the need for extensive media budgets. The playing field leveled, with creativity and strategy taking center stage.
 
Content Marketing: The New Face of PR
 
As digital platforms have grown, content marketing has become vital to modern PR strategies. Brands attract and engage their target audiences by creating and distributing valuable, relevant content, establishing thought leadership, and building trust over time.
 
Content marketing tools like blogs, white papers, eBooks, infographics, and videos allow brands to showcase their expertise and provide value to their audiences, ultimately driving brand awareness and loyalty. Unlike traditional PR, where the number of media placements measures success, content marketing focuses on the quality of engagement and the value provided to the audience.
 
Integrating content marketing into PR strategies has also blurred the lines between PR, marketing, and advertising. Today, a successful PR campaign often includes elements of all three disciplines, working together to create a cohesive brand narrative across multiple channels.
 
Social Media: The PR Game-Changer
 
Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn have revolutionized the PR industry, offering brands a direct line to millions of potential customers and stakeholders. Social media allows brands to communicate in real-time, enabling them to respond to trends, news, and crises as they happen.
 
The amplification effect of social media is precious in crisis management, where timely and effective communication can significantly impact a brand’s reputation. Additionally, social media provides a wealth of data that PR professionals use to refine their strategies and measure campaign success.
 
In the age of social media, PR has become more than just managing public perception; it involves actively participating in conversations, influencing narratives, and engaging with audiences on a personal level. Social media's immediacy and accessibility have made it an indispensable tool for PR professionals.
 
Influencer Marketing: Extending PR Reach
 
One of the significant developments in modern PR is the rise of influencer marketing. Influencers with a substantial online following have become powerful allies for brands looking to reach niche audiences. By collaborating with influencers, brands can leverage their credibility and get to enhance their PR efforts.
 
Influencer marketing extends the reach of traditional PR by tapping into the influencer’s audience, who often trust and value their opinions. This form of PR is particularly effective in industries like fashion, beauty, tech, and lifestyle, where trends and peer recommendations heavily influence consumer decisions.
 
Moreover, influencer collaborations can seamlessly integrate into broader PR campaigns, providing a multi-channel approach that amplifies brand messages across different platforms.
 
Data and Analytics: Measuring PR Success
 
Measuring the success of PR campaigns has always been challenging, but digital technology now offers tools and techniques that provide greater accuracy. PR professionals use web analytics, social media metrics, and customer surveys to track how audiences engage with content and how PR efforts influence their perceptions and behaviors.
 
By analyzing metrics such as website traffic, social media shares, and sentiment analysis, PR professionals demonstrate the ROI of their campaigns and make data-driven decisions. The ability to measure and analyze PR efforts in real-time allows for agile adjustments, ensuring that campaigns remain practical and relevant.
 
In addition to traditional metrics, PR professionals now have access to advanced tools like AI-driven analytics, which can predict trends, optimize content, and provide deeper insights into audience behavior. These advancements are reshaping how PR success is defined and measured.
 
The Future of PR: Embracing Change
 
As technology continues to evolve, so too will the field of PR. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, virtual reality (VR), and blockchain will further transform PR strategies, offering new ways to analyze data, automate tasks, and create immersive storytelling experiences.
 
AI, for instance, can assist in media monitoring, content creation, and even crisis management by predicting potential issues before they escalate. VR offers opportunities for immersive brand experiences, allowing audiences to interact with products or services in entirely new ways.
 
While still in its infancy within PR, blockchain technology promises to enhance transparency and trust by providing verifiable records of brand communications and transactions.
 
PR professionals must stay ahead of these trends and adapt to new technologies to succeed in an ever-changing landscape. However, the core principles of PR—building relationships, telling compelling stories, and protecting brand reputation—will remain constant.
 
Maloy PR: Driving Digital PR Success
 
At Maloy PR, we specialize in crafting and executing digital PR programs that help organizations effectively engage with their target audiences in today’s digital landscape. By integrating traditional PR expertise with cutting-edge digital strategies, Maloy PR can assist in developing a comprehensive digital PR campaign tailored to your specific needs. 
 
Our services include targeted message development, ensuring your brand’s voice resonates across all digital channels, from social media to content marketing. We leverage data-driven insights to create compelling narratives that capture attention and drive meaningful engagement. Whether launching a new product, managing an online reputation, or building thought leadership, Maloy PR is equipped to deliver results-oriented digital PR solutions that align with your business goals.
 www.maloypr.com
​
Conclusion
 
The evolution of PR from press releases to digital campaigns reflects broader changes in the media landscape and how people consume information. By embracing new technologies and strategies, PR professionals connect with audiences meaningfully, driving brand awareness, loyalty, and success in a digital world.
 
References
 
Cision. (n.d.). The evolution of public relations: The impact of digital technology. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://www.cision.com
 
Hootsuite. (n.d.). The role of social media in public relations: Engagement and real-time communication. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://blog.hootsuite.com
 
HubSpot. (n.d.). Content marketing and social media strategies in modern PR. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing
 
Patel, N. (n.d.). Content marketing and PR integration: Building brand authority. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://neilpatel.com/blog
 
Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). (n.d.). The history and evolution of public relations. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://www.prsa.org
 
Note: Portions of this article were generated with assistance from ChatGPT.

In a heartfelt ceremony on August 28, 2024, the Lehi community came together to honor its veterans with the dedication of a new historical marker at the Lehi Memorial Building. This event, steeped in history and tradition, paid tribute not only to the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces but also to the enduring values that have shaped Lehi, Utah, for generations.

A Community Rooted in Service and Sacrifice

​State Representative Cory Maloy, (R-Lehi,Utah) a lifelong advocate for veterans and a strong supporter of community heritage, delivered a moving speech that resonated with the crowd of local veterans, their families, city officials, and numerous residents. The Lehi Memorial Building, which was originally constructed in 1926 to honor the veterans of World War I, served as the perfect backdrop for this significant event.

Rep. Maloy shared personal stories of his own family’s military service, including the heroic tales of his granduncle, Captain Murr Skousen, a B-29 pilot during World War II who never made it back, and his grandfather, Albert George Maloy, who served in the Arizona National Guard. These stories, like many others, remind us of the sacrifices made by countless families across the nation.

“Though neither of them lived here in Lehi, their spirit—their dedication to duty—is the same spirit that runs through this town,” Maloy said. “It’s the same spirit that built this Memorial Building back in 1926 when the people of Lehi came together to honor the veterans of World War I.”

A Symbol of Enduring Values

The new historical marker, now a permanent fixture at the Lehi Memorial Building, stands as a testament to the town’s deep-rooted values of hard work, sacrifice, and community. It’s not just a piece of stone or metal; it symbolizes the collective memory of a town that honors its past while looking forward to its future.

Rep. Maloy also took the opportunity to recognize the members of American Legion Post 19, who have been instrumental in supporting Lehi’s veterans. “The men and women of Post 19 know what it means to serve, and they make sure that the stories of our veterans—of their courage and their sacrifices—are never forgotten,” Maloy stated.

This event was more than just a dedication; it was a reminder of the importance of preserving history and passing it on to future generations. The Lehi community, known for its strong bonds and deep respect for tradition, continues to thrive by honoring those who have paved the way.

Honoring the Families Behind the Heroes

Rep. Maloy made a special point to acknowledge not just the veterans but also their families—the ones who stayed behind, who worried, who waited, and who kept the home fires burning. Their strength and sacrifice are integral parts of the community’s story.

“Today isn’t just about the veterans—it’s also about their families,” Maloy said. “Their strength and their sacrifice are a big part of our story too, and we honor them today as well.”

A Future Built on Strong Foundations

As Lehi grows and evolves, the core of the community remains as strong as ever. The dedication of this historical marker serves as a powerful reminder of the values that continue to guide the town. It’s a commitment to remember the sacrifices that have made Lehi what it is today and to ensure that these values are passed on to future generations.

In closing, Rep. Maloy expressed his gratitude to everyone who made the event possible and encouraged the community to continue supporting these efforts. “As we place this marker, let’s commit to keeping those values alive, to remembering the sacrifices that made this community great, and to building a future that would make our ancestors proud.”​

​As Utah families are sending their kids off to a new school year, Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA) is offering a versatile educational experience that enhances existing school choices or serves as a complete, standalone educational solution. UTVA’s comprehensive online learning programs, including the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP), are designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s students, whether they are looking to supplement their current education or pursue a fully online curriculum.
 
Enhancing School Choice with Flexible Options
 
UTVA understands that parents want the best educational opportunities for their children, and this often means combining different learning environments to create a tailored experience. For students who wish to remain enrolled in their local school programs, UTVA offers part-time enrollment options that allow them to take additional courses online. This model is ideal for families who want to supplement their child’s education with specialized courses, advanced placement options, or subjects not offered locally.
 
“UTVA is here to complement the choices parents have already made for their children’s education,” said Meghan Merideth, Executive Director of Utah Virtual Academy. “Whether a student is looking to enhance their current school experience with additional courses or needs a flexible solution that fits their unique lifestyle, UTVA provides the perfect addition to traditional schooling.”
 
A Standalone Educational Solution
 
In addition to enhancing existing school choices, UTVA also serves as a complete educational solution for families seeking a full-time online curriculum. UTVA offers robust and comprehensive K-12 programs that cover all core subjects, along with a wide range of electives, advanced courses, and career-oriented programs. This makes UTVA an excellent choice for students who thrive in an online learning environment or for families who prefer the flexibility and control of home-based education.
 
“For families seeking a full-time alternative to traditional schooling, UTVA provides a complete, high-quality education that meets all state standards,” explains Merideth. “Our programs are designed to support students in every aspect of their academic journey, offering everything they need to succeed from kindergarten through high school graduation.”
 
Personalized Learning for Every Student
 
One of the key advantages of UTVA is its ability to offer a personalized learning experience that can be customized to fit each student’s needs. Whether enrolled part-time or full-time, UTVA students have access to a wide array of courses, including advanced placement, career-focused electives, and enrichment courses. This personalized approach ensures that every student can pursue their passions, develop their strengths, and achieve their academic goals.
 
“Our flexible learning model allows students to take control of their education,” says Merideth. “By offering both part-time and full-time options, we provide the opportunity for students to explore their interests, challenge themselves academically, and create a learning experience that is uniquely theirs.”
 
Supporting Families with Flexibility
 
UTVA’s flexibility is particularly beneficial for families who need to balance academics with other commitments, such as athletics, arts, or other extracurricular activities. Whether through part-time enrollment to supplement traditional schooling or full-time participation in a completely online program, UTVA allows students to create a schedule that works best for them, ensuring they can excel both inside and outside the classroom.
 
“Flexibility is at the heart of what we offer,” said Merideth. “Whether students are enhancing their current education with our courses or fully transitioning to an online curriculum, UTVA is designed to fit seamlessly into their lives, supporting their academic and personal growth.”
 
Expanding Educational Opportunities
 
UTVA not only provides flexibility but also expands the educational opportunities available to students across Utah. With a curriculum that includes specialized courses, real-world skills training, and advanced academic options, UTVA empowers students to reach their full potential, whether they are preparing for college, a career, or other future endeavors.
 
“UTVA opens doors for students by providing access to a wide range of courses and learning experiences,” Merideth said. “Whether enhancing their current education or pursuing a full-time online program, students can explore new subjects, gain valuable knowledge, and prepare for a successful future.”
 
Supporting Student Success and Well-Being
 
UTVA places a strong emphasis on supporting the overall well-being of its students. The online learning environment is designed to foster both academic and personal growth, with access to counseling, mentorship, and a wide range of educational resources. Whether part-time or full-time, UTVA students are supported in every aspect of their development.
 
“Our commitment to student success extends beyond academics,” said Merideth. “We provide a balanced, well-rounded educational experience that supports students’ individual needs and prepares them for the future, whether they are supplementing their current education or fully embracing online learning.”
 
UTVA is enrolling now for its full- and part-time enrollment options.
 
About Utah Virtual Academy
 
Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA) is a state-approved online public charter school providing a comprehensive K-12 education. It is accredited by Cognia Accreditation and Certification. Publicly funded, UTVA offers flexible, personalized learning options tailored to meet individual student needs. With a curriculum aligned with state standards and delivered by certified teachers, UTVA ensures a high-quality education accessible from home. Committed to academic excellence and innovation, UTVA prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving world.
 
Utah parents and kids have more school choices now than ever before. UTVA is perfectly aligned with those choices and provides an educational leading Part-time Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP) for grades 7-12. This allows students to excel in areas they may want or need, such as in high-achievement subjects, make-up of courses they may have missed, or in completing their education faster.
 
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Utah’s newest medical school celebrates construction milestone

​PROVO, Utah, December 15, 2021 — The Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine (Noorda-COM) today marked a milestone in the construction of its new academic building in Provo with a traditional “topping off” ceremony celebrating the placement of the final steel beam on the structure. 
 
A gathering of Noorda-COM founders, board members, leadership, students, and benefactors, along with community leaders, medical partners, construction and architect teams, participated in a brief program that culminated with a crane lifting the final steel beam into place. In the days leading up to the event, the beam was signed by hundreds of people with interest in the project, including members of the inaugural class of 90 medical students. 
 
“This is a celebration for us all and would not be possible if it were not for the incredible support and vision of our founders, benefactors, community partners, and dedicated campus leadership,” said Norm Wright, interim president of Noorda-COM. “As I look at the steel frame of this building, it is symbolic of the strength and determination of so many who believe passionately in the impact the Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine will have – not only for the medical school and our students, but for this community and state.”
 
The topping off ceremony is a time-honored tradition in construction projects. It is not only adorned with signatures, but with an evergreen tree and American flag. The symbolism of the evergreen goes back many centuries and is said to represent a safe job well done with no fatalities, good fortune throughout the life of the building, and blessings for the building to stand forever. 
 
Having spent the last 26 years in medical education, Dr. John Dougherty, founding dean and chief academic officer, has envisioned this building and what it will mean for medical education in the future. 
 
“This new building has been designed to be a home for generations of medical students to come who will go on to meet the ever-changing needs of the patients they will serve,” Dougherty said. “In this building, we will transform medical education and provide our student doctors with the tools and resources needed for them to become empathetic and compassionate physicians.”
 
Estimated at $57 million, the four-story, 140,000-sqare-foot academic building is situated on a 30-acre campus located off I-15 and Lakeview Parkway in South Provo. The building is expected to open in Summer 2023. 
 
About Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine
Located in Provo, Utah, Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine (Noorda-COM) offers an innovative and unique approach to medical education. Noorda-COM provides 21st-century medical students a curricular model blending active, small group learning with advanced laboratory experiences and research opportunities while also emphasizing school and life balance with a commitment to health and wellness. Noorda-COM focuses on preparing future residency-ready physicians committed to providing patient-centered healthcare. Noorda-COM is a private, proprietary institution. An independent governing Board of Trustees oversees Noorda-COM. The Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation granted Noorda-COM Pre-Accreditation status in December 2020. For more information, visit noordacom.org.