Huntsman Mental Health Institute at the University of Utah honors the life and legacy of Karen Haight Huntsman, who passed away at the age of 88.
“Today, my heart is heavy with the profound loss of Karen Haight Huntsman—a woman whose life was defined by generosity, service, and unwavering love,” said Brett Graham, Institute President of Huntsman Mental Health Institute.
In her 88 years, Huntsman made a lasting and meaningful impact on the University of Utah, the state of Utah, and the countless individuals fortunate enough to know her. Her contributions to healthcare and philanthropy—including the transformative 1995 gift she and her late husband, Jon Huntsman, made to establish Huntsman Cancer Institute—continue to shape lives today.
“We join so many in mourning with the Huntsman’s and honoring Karen’s spirit of good will, philanthropy, and kindness. She was present from the very beginning in the discussions that ultimately led to their amazing $150 million gift. Our organization has transformed because of her and her family,” Jim Ashworth, MD, Interim Chair, Department of Psychiatry.
Equally impactful was her role as a mother and mentor. Huntsman was devoted to raising her nine children with a deep sense of purpose, compassion, and service—values that live on through the Huntsman family’s continued leadership in advancing mental health care and other critical initiatives across Utah and beyond.
“Over the many years of working with the Huntsman’s, I have seen their passion and engagement in reframing how we understand and treat mental illness. I have had the privilege to observe this firsthand at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, where Karen’s legacy is evident,” said Dave Eldredge, Chief Administrative Officer of Huntsman Mental Health Institute.
In a 1997 interview with the Deseret News, Huntsman remarked, “the most important thing we can do as women is to instill moral values into our children.” Her life reflected that belief in every way.
“Karen led not with fanfare, but with intention,” Graham added. “Through her quiet determination, hands-on leadership in guiding her family, and steadfast belief in the power of strong values, she shaped not only institutions—but generations.”
On behalf of nearly 2,000 employees at Huntsman Mental Health Institute, the organization extends its deepest gratitude to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
“We have felt her guidance, experienced her generosity, and will continue to carry forward her spirit of hope in the work we do every day,” said Graham. “We honor her life with immense gratitude.”