Governor Cox and Lieutenant Governor Henderson announced the 2026 Governor's Awards on Aug. 3, recognizing individuals and companies for their significant contributions to Utah's economic development and community service. The honors, presented during the One Utah Summit, highlighted local leadership and international business success across the state.
Corporate and International Recognition
The 2026 awards ceremony featured several high-profile recognitions for both corporate entities and individual community leaders. Merit Medical Systems received the International Business of the Year award from the World Trade Center, an honor reserved for organizations that expand into new markets and strengthen Utah's global reputation through exceptional international business efforts. Additionally, LS Electric was named the Statewide Investor by the Utah Inland Port Authority for making significant long-term investments that create quality jobs and strengthen local communities.
Economic Development Awards
In the category of Utah Business of the Year, Intermountain Electronics was selected by the Governor's Office of Economic Development. The award recognizes businesses that demonstrate innovation and entrepreneurial spirit while contributing to economic development through job creation, revenue growth, and contributions to the local tax base. The selection process focuses on companies that act as good corporate citizens and provide a positive economic impact on the rural areas in which they operate.
Rural Leadership Honors
The summit also honored several individuals for their dedicated service to Utah's rural communities. Carl Albrecht was named the State Bank of Southern Utah Rural Legacy Leader for his career-long service and significant impact on rural Utah. Geri Gamber received the Utah Rural Influencer award, recognizing her leadership, mentorship, and ability to convene and develop leaders throughout rural communities. Lesha Coltharp was named the Utah Rural Rockstar for her immediate impact and leadership on visionary projects designed to shape the future of rural Utah.
Resource and Service Awards
The honors included specific recognitions for those working to protect Utah's natural resources and build community resilience. Valar Atomics received the Horizon Award from the Utah Department of Natural Resources for proactively identifying emerging challenges and taking bold action to benefit all Utahns. Lauri Garfield was recognized with the Distinguished Service award for her work in improving the quality of life in rural Utah through the development of various programs and services.
Transformational Leadership
The Transformational Leader Awards focused on individuals who have engaged in the Utah Rural Leadership Academy or the Utah Local Leadership Academy. Recipients of these awards were noted for their active engagement in lifting Utah's workforce, culture, and industries. The Transformational Leader Legacy Award was presented to Christine Watkins, who was recognized for a life's work reflecting a deep commitment to leadership, compassion, and empowering others.
Community Impact Recognition
Other recipients of the transformational leadership honors included Nate McDonald of Clyde Companies, recognized for advancing rural Utah through community relations and public service. Michelle Tullis of State Bank of Southern Utah was honored for her work in strengthening rural communities through banking, education, and commercial lending. Additionally, Larry Jensen was recognized for his decades of leadership in Carbon County, specifically regarding construction, public service, and his commitment to the Price community. Derrin Owens was also honored for his leadership in education, economic development, and public service on behalf of rural Utah communities.
Regional Economic Context
While the summit highlighted statewide economic leaders, the state also continues to monitor regional economic momentum in areas like Beaver County. As part of ongoing tourism partner visits conducted in late March, officials noted the strategic importance of leveraging transit traffic for destination development. For example, The Creamery has become a significant economic driver in the region, generating $10 million in revenue and employing 95 people while promoting a Utah-sourced artisan brand throughout the West.
