From the First Female Senator to Utah's First Woman Governor
Walker Reflects on History and the Moment to Shape the Future

Focused on the future, Olene S. Walker today took the oath of office as Utah’s fifteenth and first woman governor. The ceremony took place during an historical transition of power from former Gov. Mike Leavitt to Gov. Walker. Gayle F. McKeachnie also took the oath of office as lieutenant governor. Surrounded by former governors, including Leavitt, former first ladies, elected and appointed officials, the media and the public, Walker delivered an inaugural address shaped by history and emphasized her commitment to "get to work" on the future.

"I have the responsibility to do the best job of serving the people of this state. The time is now. I plan to go to work today," said Walker. "I take on this responsibility with valuable experience. I have had an unusual apprenticeship."

Walker worked as a teammate with Leavitt for more than a decade and also served from 1981 to 1988 in the Utah House of Representatives, including serving as assistant majority whip and majority whip. Serving capably in these capacities "has prepared me to bring what I’ve learned in these roles to my new role as governor," she said.

Referring to a statue of Martha Hughes Cannon, the nation’s first female state senator, Walker compared the challenges of 1897 – the budget, education and the environment -- to those of today.

Walker noted, "One hundred and six years later, we are still debating those same issues. Persistence like Martha’s is a necessity in good government. She is someone I hope I emulate."

Walker focused on maintaining a balanced budget and serving as a strong financial steward. When elected as a legislator, former Gov. Norman H. Bangerter advised Walker to "get to know the budget" in order to be successful. Walker reminded Utahns that in1985 she sponsored the bill to create the "Rainy Day Fund," which took two years to pass.

"That fund has allowed us to get through stormy weather without raising taxes," she said.

Education and literacy were primary focuses during the speech. Walker spoke to the importance of changes to the educational system, including allowing students to master basic skills rather than "seat" time. "For too long we have equated learning with ‘time in the seat’ rather than ‘skills to be mastered,’" Walker noted.

Walker asked every Utahn to help improve literacy: "I call on each of you to spend the most important 20 minutes of your day reading with a child."

Walker continued her emphasis on contribution. "Each of us has something to contribute, whether large or small," she said. "Clean up a neighbor’s yard. Plant a tree. Vote!"

She concluded her speech with a pledge: "As governor, I will consider it my responsibility to bring to the table what I have learned in my many roles. Martha Hughes Cannon, we will make you proud. Now is the time! Let’s get started!"

Following the speech, Walker escorted former Gov. Leavitt to his car as he departed the capitol building.

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Results from yesterday's municipal elections are available on the State Elections Office website.
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