President’s Message: America at 250: A Time to Celebrate What We’ve Built Together

There are key moments in the life of a nation that call us to pause, look around and reflect on what we have built together. This year, as the United States marks its 250th anniversary, we have that opportunity. And here in Utah, we intend to honor it.

America’s 250th is more than a calendar milestone. It is an invitation to reflect on the bonds that have held this country together across generations; the shared purpose, the common investment in one another and the belief that what we build together is always greater than what any of us could build alone. That spirit is not abstract to us. It is also the story of Utah’s business community, written across more than a century of growth, resilience and collaboration.

This year, the Salt Lake Chamber is marking the occasion with something new and distinctly fitting: Under One Sky: America250 Utah Awards Gala. On May 21 at the Grand America Hotel, we will gather to recognize the individuals and organizations whose leadership has shaped our state and our nation. We want to recognize the people and institutions that have built bridges, created opportunity and strengthened the fabric of our communities. The evening will also celebrate Utah businesses that have been part of that story for more than 100 years.

This event replaces our annual Giant in Our City celebration and is designed to be held only once for this special moment. The name says it all. Under one sky, Utahns from every background, industry and walk of life have contributed to something remarkable. This gala is our way of saying thank you and is our affirmation that everything Utah has built, we build and celebrate together.

The honorees being recognized this year represent the best of what Utah produces: leaders who listen, entrepreneurs who create, stewards who give back and public servants who show up. Their stories are Utah’s story, and their example represents the social capital that makes this state worth investing in. But they are not alone. Across every industry and every county, there are Utahns doing this same quiet, essential work of building businesses, serving neighbors and investing in a future they may never fully see. This evening is for all of them, too. For you, and in celebration of the work you do.

I hope you will join us on May 21 to celebrate this milestone, honor these extraordinary Utahns and recommit to the work of building something that will outlast all of us. For tickets and information, visit slchamber.com/underonesky.