At the 2025 Annual Meeting, the Salt Lake Chamber will honor individuals and organizations whose dedication has strengthened both the Chamber’s mission and the community. This year, we’re proud to recognize Dr. Jennifer Robinson, Chief of Staff, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, as a Chamber Champion – an award reserved for exceptional Chamber volunteers who go above and beyond in service.
Dr. Jennifer Robinson serves as the chief of staff at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, where she directs the operations team and oversees research on Utah’s demographics, economy and public policy. A trusted advisor to state and community leaders, she co-authored influential works including “The New Utah: Keepers of the Flame” and directed high-impact reports like the “Diversity in Utah Data Book” and the annual “Utah Informed” publication. She assisted the Salt Lake Chamber as it developed Utah Rising, a statewide business-led plan to help Utah become and remain the top-performing economy in the nation. Dr. Robinson serves on several nonprofit and civic boards, including the Community Foundation of Utah, Visit Salt Lake and Utah Foundation.
Here’s what Dr. Robinson had to say when we asked about her involvement with the Chamber.
What inspires you to dedicate your time and energy to volunteering and supporting the Chamber’s mission?
I’m proud to support the Salt Lake Chamber and its impactful work across Utah. Since the founding of the Gardner Institute ten years ago, the Chamber has been one of our closest partners. Our collaborations, notably on projects such as Utah Rising and the annual Utah Economic Outlook & Public Policy Summit, have been instrumental in fostering informed decision-making throughout the state, ensuring a brighter future for all Utahns. I’m inspired by the Chamber’s commitment to build a more prosperous state, and I’m proud to contribute to that mission.
Is there a particular Chamber project, event or initiative that you are especially proud of having worked on?
The Salt Lake Chamber demonstrated remarkable leadership in establishing the Utah Rising Initiative, and I’m incredibly proud to have been part of this effort. Working together with the Chamber’s team and the Utah Rising Steering Committee, led by Spencer P. Eccles, the Gardner Institute played a pivotal role in developing and championing a forward-thinking, business-led plan that addresses key economic drivers to propel Utah toward becoming the top-performing economy in the nation.
What does receiving this award mean to you?
I am deeply honored to receive the “Chamber Champion” Award and to be recognized among the other outstanding recipients. This recognition reflects the strong and enduring partnership between the Salt Lake Chamber and the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute. It’s a privilege to work alongside such dedicated business leaders to help all Utahns prosper.
To learn more about our honoree or the 2025 Annual Meeting, click here.
