More than 400 bankers, guests, and business partners converged on Sun Valley June 26-29 for the 114th Annual UBA Convention, gathering to explore the latest industry developments, reconnect with colleagues, and enjoy some fun in the sun with family and friends.
As per tradition, the festivities kicked off with registration in the Exhibit Hall on Sunday afternoon. Bankers and their families connected with over 40 exhibitors – learning about their products and services, partaking in fun games and activities, and scoring some amazing swag along the way.
Scott Anderson, President & CEO of Zions Bank, kicked off the Monday Business Session, sitting down for a fireside chat with Jon Huntsman, Jr., the former Utah Governor. He provided his unique perspective about world events, specifically in Russia and China, while also imploring the audience to be realistic about energy and the economy to find workable solutions. Natalie Gochnour, Director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, provided an economic update, telling the audience that despite these trying and uncertain times, Utah is in good position to recover quickly, and bankers can really help in this environment. The morning was capped off by Brad Wilson, Speaker of the Utah House of Representatives, discussing the biggest challenges facing the state – drought, rising housing costs – and why he remains optimistic that Utah can overcome them.
Following lunch on the terrace, attendees went to different breakout sessions, addressing hot industry topics such as
cryptocurrency, cybersecurity, employee mental health, developing a strategic board, regulatory issues, and the evolving
future of banking.
After all that work, it was time for some play – Bingo-style! Teens got their own age category this year, alongside adults and kids, and all 3 age groups won some outstanding prizes.
Tuesday was Activities Day, with attendees enjoying a fun run and walk, white water rafting, golf, horseback riding, trap
shooting, and the first ever Pickleball Tournament!
Later that evening, UBA Chair Eric Schmutz, State Bank of Southern Utah, and ABA Chair Scott Anderson, Zions Bank,
were honored at the Chairman’s Reception & Dinner. After dinner, Bruce Rigby of Cache Valley Bank and Linda Anderson of Wells Fargo were recognized with 40 Year Service Awards, and Craig White of Utah Independent Bank was presented the Distinguished Banker Award (view the article here: https://utah-banker.thenewslinkgroup.org/craig-white-named-2022-distinguished-banker/). To wrap up a busy but fun-filled day, guests were entertained by the world-famous Sun Valley Ice Show and a fireworks display.
Wednesday’s Business Session was again led off by Scott Anderson, this time in his role as ABA Chairman. Anderson
gave an uplifting report, reminding bankers that, “We are a noble profession. We do make a difference. We are at the heart of our communities.” State Treasurer Marlo Oaks also gave a passionate address, detailing the drawbacks of using ESG in capital markets. And Ben Browning, Bank of Utah, gave an Emerging Bank Leaders report, detailing the program’s mission and its achievements this past year.
Then it was time for the annual membership meeting, in which bankers elected the 2022-23 UBA Board of Directors,
including Matt Bloye – Region Bank President, Wells Fargo – as Chairman. Bloye introduced the event’s final speaker –
James Lawrence, also known as the Iron Cowboy. He had attendees riveted for nearly an hour, recounting his incredible
feat of 50 Ironman Triathlons in 50 states in 50 days, which he later topped by completing 101 in 101 days. Lawrence
shared several positive lessons from his journey, inspiring the audience to be their best selves – the perfect exclamation point to an outstanding Convention.
And though Lawrence said that “tomorrow is not guaranteed, the only important time is now,” it’s not too early to start
making plans for the 115th Annual UBA Convention, which will be back in Sun Valley June 25-28, 2023.
