U Rising

At the University of Utah, we have a saying: Imagine, then do. On U Rising, you’ll hear stories from our faculty, staff and students that bring those words to life. We'll share inspiring, innovative and impactful initiatives that are benefitting our community and the world.

U Rising is hosted by Chris Nelson and Julie Kiefer.

Chris, who has more than 26 years of experience in higher education and academic health care, is the chief university relations officer and secretary to the university. He has served six university presidents and dozens of senior leaders in health care and higher education, creating and executing strategies to help health care and higher education organizations advance their brand and philanthropic goals. He has bachelor of science degrees in political science and broadcast journalism and a master of public administration, all from the University of Utah.

Julie is the associate director of science communications at University of Utah Health and has 15 years of experience in science communication. This includes developing approaches to reach broad audiences and enhance an understanding of research and its impacts. Julie has a bachelor of science degree in biology from the University of California San Diego and a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Washington.

The podcast is produced by Brooke Adams, national media strategist, with technical assistance from Robert J. Nelson, media studios librarian at the Marriott Library.

Our original album art was created by Dave Meikle, a professional landscape artist and art director for University Marketing & Communications. Elisabet Curbelo González , assistant professor of electroacoustic music & music theory in the School of Music, created the original soundtrack. Her music has been performed worldwide and includes pieces for ensemble and solo instruments, voice, choir, acoustic and electroacoustic music, music for dance, installation work and music audiovisual media.

Co-host

Chris Nelson

Chris is the chief university relations officer and secretary to the University of Utah.

As chief university relations officer, Chris oversees strategic, executive and crisis communication, as well as community engagement. As secretary to the university, he is the liaison to the university’s Board of Trustees and is a member of the president’s cabinet. He has more than 26 years of experience in higher education and health care communication.

Chris previously served as interim chief marketing and communication officer and the university’s communications director/chief spokesperson. Over his career, Chris has held a number of senior roles in strategic communications, marketing and fundraising. He holds a master’s degree in public administration, bachelor’s degrees in mass communication and political science, and a graduate certificate in integrated marketing communications—all from the University of Utah.