As the year draws to a close, I’ve taken some time to look back. In that reflection, I’m humbled thinking of the incredible people who invest and collaborate in our state for good. In a time when too much of our national dialogue is driven by division, Utah continues to stand out for its commitment to civility, respect and the shared belief that our future is best built side by side.
Throughout the year, I’ve watched business leaders, public servants and community members come together to solve real challenges together; whether around housing affordability, workforce development, responsible growth or strengthening our economic foundations. Utah succeeds when we sit down at the same table, listen first, and look for solutions that lift the entire state.
This spirit of unity is at the heart of the Chamber’s mission. We advocate for thoughtful policy and build opportunities for business and our community. Together, we do the work that matters as our state grows and evolves. And this commitment is reflected in the state’s premier economic forecasting and public policy event: the 2026 Utah Economic Outlook & Public Policy Summit.
Each January, the Summit brings together policy, business and academic thought leaders from across the state for a forward-looking conversation about Utah’s economy and the policies that shape our future. This year’s sessions will explore the trends, opportunities and challenges ahead, and give us a chance to enhance our shared understanding and recommit to working together with respect and purpose.
Tim Shriver, chairman of Special Olympics International, will provide an insightful keynote address titled “The Business Case for Dignity.” He will focus on why dignity is an essential component of strong organizations, effective leadership and long-term success. Attendees will have a valuable opportunity to learn directly from a globally respected leader in organizational culture and human-centered leadership.
We look forward to announcing other keynote speakers soon that follow a similar theme, with a focus on the benefits of collaboration across varying levels and differing opinions, and how to do so pragmatically to keep our state competitive in a changing economy.
I encourage you to join us on January 16, 2026, at The Grand America Hotel. Your expertise and perspective are essential to the collaboration that keeps Utah strong. Learn more about the Summit, its speakers and sessions on the Chamber’s website.
As we close out the year, I am grateful for all of you who continue to show what is possible when we choose unity over division. We all benefit when we engage in the hard work of finding common ground. Utah will continue to lead the nation in demonstrating how to disagree without being disagreeable, and how to build a prosperous future with civility at the center. Thank you for the work you do and the way you do it. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead.
