“I’m Someone Who Likes To Get Things Done.”
Home Life
I’m homegrown—born and raised in Provo, as one of seven siblings raised by a single mother. I loved attending Wasatch Elementary, Dixon Middle School, and Provo High. An academic scholarship allowed me to attend BYU, where I met my husband Steve. We then moved to Philadelphia for a few years, and when it came time to leave, we knew we could move anywhere we wanted to. We chose Provo because we wanted our children to have the same experiences I had. Our children have attended Provo public schools all the way through high school. They got to play in the same parks I’d played in, only with the trees much taller by then.My Life In Provo
I've always been committed to serving Provo, starting with small contributions that grew into larger roles as my passion for our community deepened. My dedication led me to serve on the Provo School Board, including time as its President. I’ve also contributed to the Provo City Citizens Advisory Board, the Utah High School Athletic Association, and the steering committee for Utah Valley Regional Medical Center’s hospital replacement project. These experiences, along with many others, have given me a well-rounded understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Provo.My Work In Provo
Recognized for her strong leadership, Mayor Michelle Kaufusi has earned prestigious accolades, including Utah’s 2019 Informed Decision Maker of the Year and the 2022 Utah Valley Chamber Champion. Her influence extends across the region through key leadership roles, such as chair of the Utah Municipal Power Agency and the Utah Lake Authority, vice chair of the Utah Water Quality Board, and a long-standing member of the Utah Olympic Committee. She has also played a pivotal role in transportation and municipal governance, serving as chair of the Utah County Metropolitan Planning Organization and its Finance Committee, as well as a past president of the Utah League of Cities and Towns.Under her leadership, Provo has gained national recognition, most notably securing the Milken Institute’s title of Best-Performing City in America for an unprecedented three consecutive years (2021–2023).
Achievements
While I’m known for my work ethic, I try to maintain balance by running (I’ve completed several marathons), reading (two or three books a month), and relaxing with my family. This all works because I’m one of those lucky–or cursed–souls who only needs a half night’s sleep.My Family Is Everything
My family is my pride and joy. Steve and I have always run a tight ship—a fun ship but a tight ship. We require homework and chores to be done before privileges are enjoyed, and there are no handouts or allowances. Our oldest son Bronson and his wife Hilary, both BYU graduates, now live in Green Bay where he plays for the Green Bay Packers. Alexis is a BYU graduate who lives in Connecticut. After finishing his degree at BYU, Corbin now lives in the Bay Area where he plays for the San Francisco 49ers. Daryl is a new mom living in Provo and Devin is getting his degree at the University of Utah.
