Community
Ryan Paul Is Coming to Springdale
Part of America 250 - July 2, 6 pm, CCC
Utah Historical Society selected Ryan Paul, an assistant professor of history at Southern Utah University, to receive its Outstanding Achievement Award for his contributions to public history, education, and preservation of Utah's heritage. He was honored at the society's annual awards presentation on January 28, 2026, at Hill Aerospace Museum.
Paul teaches American History, Public and Local History, and National Parks History at SUU and is known for experiential, community-focused learning. He directs the APEX Speaker Series, which brings notable speakers to campus.
With more than 20 years dedicated to Utah history, Paul previously served for 19 years as curator of Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, where he developed exhibits and educational programs. He has also produced five documentaries, written two books, served as president of the Utah Museums Association, and led numerous public history initiatives.
Among his recent initiatives is Main Street Minutes, a digital storytelling series created in partnership with Visit Cedar City • Brian Head that highlights the unique history and character of Cedar City. Paul also plays a central role in America 250: Iron County, a local commemoration of the nation's semiquincentennial that brings historical programming
The award recognizes Paul's long-standing commitment to making history accessible, engaging, and meaningful for students and the broader community while advancing SUU's hands-on learning mission. "I am thankful for the opportunity I've had to explore our shared past and share it with students and community members. History thrives through collective effort, and I am proud to be part of that community.
"Ryan Paul is a living, breathing, history machine," said Dave Lunt, chair of SUU's Department of History, Sociology, and Anthropology. "He teaches with passion, collaborates with purpose, and brings history to life for students and communities alike. His energy and dedication make history feel immediate and meaningful.”
"To me, history is a collection of stories," Paul said. "We search these stories and look for patterns that give meaning to our experience and help us understand who we are and how we can be our best selves. I am committed and excited to continue telling the story of our shared past."
