Utah Tech University’s Kaplan Sanders inducted into Utah Financial Education Hall of Fame

Kaplan Sanders, assistant professor of finance, was honored this summer with an induction into the Utah Financial Education Hall of Fame. His dedication and contributions to the university are extraordinary, making him truly deserving of this recognition.

This honor recognizes leaders across the state who go above and beyond to improve financial literacy and empower others with the tools they need to succeed. For Kaplan, the recognition isn’t about him, it’s about the collective effort of his colleagues, students and community partners.

“I am lucky we have a whole group supporting the outreach we have been trying to do on campus,” he said. “Dr. Helen Saar started the charge for Personal Finance Day, and Dean Linda Yu has been a huge advocate for literacy. It has been a team effort.”

Building a Culture of Financial Wellness

At Utah Tech, professors like Kaplan go above and beyond to give students more than just lectures.

Under Kaplan’s leadership, finance students are not only learning in the classroom but also stepping into the community. Each year, Utah Tech brings hundreds of high school students to campus for financial literacy events that make money management approachable and engaging.

In addition to this, finance students participate in financial coaching and presentations, giving them hands-on experience that prepares them to become future financial advisors and planners.

A Campus Favorite

It’s not just the Hall of Fame recognition that matters; Kaplan stands out to many finance students here at Utah Tech as a favorite professor.

“Kaplan has been such a helpful resource to me during my time at Utah Tech,” Master of Accountancy Student Trevor Moser said. “I appreciate his genuine care for his students and for the materials he teaches.”

He makes finance matter. He teaches a subject that impacts everyone, while creating a welcoming, supportive space where students feel comfortable tackling tough topics like budgeting, debt and money management.

“I am lucky to teach a subject that matters,” he said. “I get to work with students who care, who are curious and creative and who are willing to work hard. That makes a difference.”

Leaving a legacy of impact

From overseeing the instruction of finance courses across 19 sections, to mentoring students, to leading community outreach, Kaplan is building a legacy of financial empowerment at Utah Tech.

At Utah Tech, he isn’t just teaching finance. He’s teaching confidence, resilience and empowerment. Skills that ripple far beyond the classroom.

For more information, visit finance.utahtech.edu.