The Utah Bankers Association’s Emerging Bank Leaders gathered for an informative and energizing day at this year’s “Igniting Leadership” conference — an event designed to spark new ideas, elevate professional growth and strengthen connections across Utah’s banking community. Held at Thanksgiving Point on Nov. 13, 2025, the conference agenda delivered a dynamic blend of leadership insights, industry expertise and actionable lessons.
The morning began with networking over breakfast, after which the attendees received a warm welcome and a timely leadership message from Todd Boren of Celtic Bank. He set the tone for the day with a message to “be engaged, be persistent and be kind.” A session on stablecoins provided attendees with insight into innovations in the financial services sector. It was followed by the popular “Utah Bankers Ignite!” session, which featured short, fast-paced presentations from attendees’ peers highlighting entertaining or poignant viewpoints.
Michael Jeanfreau provided an update on Utah’s economy and labor force, offering context on statewide trends influencing banks and their customers. Attendees then enjoyed a hands-on networking activity and a service project, creating bracelets for Stellar Wonderz, an organization dedicated to inspiring hope and brightening the days of hospital patients and their families.
After lunch, the inaugural Emerging Bank Leaders Award was presented, and EBL Chair Jessica Sorensen encouraged attendees to become more involved with EBL in the coming year.
The afternoon block focused on practical skill-building, including sessions on confident negotiation and the evolving role of AI in banking. The day concluded with a standout keynote from Cesar Castro on “Strategic Storytelling,” where he emphasized the power of narrative to create connection and influence action within our organizations and beyond.
The 2025 “Igniting Leadership” conference delivered on its name, arming participants with new perspectives and new connections to ensure a bright future for banking in Utah. Learn more about the Emerging Bank Leaders program at www.utah.bank/ebl.
