David Oyler Named 2013 Wright Alumnus of the Year

PROVO, Utah – Dec 30, 2013 – This past fall the Romney Institute of Public Management honored David Oyler, Spanish Fork city manager, with its 2013 N. Dale Wright Distinguished Alumni Award at a banquet held at the Hinckley Center. The award is one of the most esteemed accolades given by the Romney Institute.

“Dave was an easy choice for our Distinguished Alumni Award,” says Rex Facer, associate professor of public finance and management. “During his career, he has helped Spanish Fork grow, thrive, and meet the service expectations of a dynamic community.”

Oyler graduated from the MPA program in 1977 and currently serves on the advisory board for the Romney Institute. He has served more than thirty-eight years for Spanish Fork and is known for his dedicated service to the city and his commitment to improve everyone and everything around him.

“Dave has left a lasting legacy in Spanish Fork,” says Seth Perrins, Spanish Fork assistant city manager. “His many accomplishments come because he dreams big. His fingerprints are all over the community, and Spanish Fork is a better city because of his leadership and love. I have long treasured our relationship and count my association with Dave as a great personal blessing.”

At the award banquet, Oyler was presented with a beautiful painting of the mountains by N. Dale Wright, past Romney Institute director.

“I would like to thank Dale Wright for the beautiful painting, Oyler said. “I grew up on the Idaho side of the Tetons and was able to see the mountains every day; this painting has special meaning.”

One question people frequently ask Oyler is how he’s been able to stay in one city for so long in a position that tends to have a shorter tenure. He gave two reasons as to why he was so fortunate.

“I was privileged to work for some excellent elected officials and city staff during these past thirty-eight years and was never asked to leave,” Oyler says. “I am also blessed to have a very supportive family, who enjoyed living in our small community as it grew and matured.”

Oyler discussed several ways he has been able to maintain such an abundant quality of life in his community.

“Whether we are running our household or managing a city, we must always live within our means, and, where possible, stay out of debt," Oyler says. “In Spanish Fork we have followed this philosophy. The necessities of life should always take precedence over the niceties.”

Oyler has found his work as city manager to be tremendously rewarding.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working at the local level of government where the things you do on a day-to-day basis have a direct impact on the quality of life of all the citizens you work for.”