More Than a Portrait

On a recent beautiful fall evening, invited guests gathered at Salt Lake Community College to honor a pivotal leader in the institution's history. The night was a celebration of former President Deneece G. Huftalin, whose lasting impact was solidified through two distinct but deeply connected honors: the unveiling of her official presidential portrait and the dedication of the student center in her name. 

Capturing a Leader's Spirit

The first honor of the evening was the unveiling of President Huftalin’s official portrait, which now hangs on the fourth floor of the Taylorsville Redwood Campus alongside those of the nine presidents who preceded her. The stunning piece was created by a member of the SLCC family, Professor of Visual Art & Design, Rob Adamson.

For Adamson, a renowned painter of cityscapes and landscapes, the project was a significant highlight. “Creating the official presidential portrait of Deneece Huftalin has been one of the most extraordinary and exciting highlights of my career,” he shared. “My hope was to capture the bright, enthusiastic personality and soul of our former president. She has such a love and appreciation for each one of our students, faculty and employees. She leaves a great legacy of determination, love, and inclusion.”

Guests at the unveiling agreed that Adamson succeeded, commenting on how the portrait perfectly captured her likeness through its warm smile and sparkling blue eyes. For President Huftalin, a steadfast supporter of the arts, the moment felt surreal. She expressed her delight with the painting and her honor at being the subject of such a talented artist.

A Living Legacy in the Heart of Campus

While the portrait captures her image, a second tribute ensures her mission lives on every day. Attendees were also invited to celebrate the official renaming of the Dr. Deneece G. Huftalin Student Center in July of this year.

The dedication is a fitting tribute, rooted in her career-long, student-centric focus—first as the Vice President of Student Affairs and later as President. The student center serves as the heart of the Taylorsville Redwood Campus, and its mission directly reflects her values. It is a welcoming and safe space for students to feel included and affirmed, a nucleus for programs that support their holistic development, and a hub for a community built on listening and encouragement.

Experience the Legacy for Yourself

Together, the portrait and the student center stand as powerful, permanent reminders of President Huftalin’s unwavering dedication to the SLCC community.

We encourage everyone to engage with her legacy:

1. View the Portrait: The portrait can be viewed online at here. To see it in person, please coordinate a time with the President's Office.
2. Visit the Student Center: Take a walk over to the east side of the student center on the Taylorsville Redwood Campus to see the new plaque bearing Dr. Huftalin's name.
3. Reflect and Recommit: As you experience these tributes, take a moment to reflect on her legacy and reaffirm your own commitment to the student-centered service that defines our work at SLCC.