Honoring the Resilience and Integrity that
Shaped Utah’s Future
More than a century ago, a 14-year-old Scottish immigrant arrived in Utah with no formal education, little more than the ragged clothes on his back and an unmatched entrepreneurial spirit.
From a young age, David Eccles believed that hard work and integrity could transform not only his own life, but the lives of those around him. From those humble beginnings, David would go on to found more than 50 businesses – railroads, lumber mills, construction companies, coal mines and banks – that fueled growth across Utah, the American West, and the nation. His legacy of prosperity and opportunity was carried forward by his children and grandchildren who have embraced his values of integrity, grit, and resilience.
Today our board honors that same spirit and a commitment to building a better future shaped by generosity, collaboration, and a deep belief in the people of Utah. And in the words of our CEO and Board Chair, Spencer F. Eccles ... for our state ... the best really is yet to come!
David Eccles Statue Dedication
University of Utah
In August, students from the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah welcomed a new bronze statue of their school's namesake: David Eccles (1849-1912) depicted as a 14-year-old boy with tattered clothes, hand-carved kitchenwares tied to his belt, and the determination of a young entrepreneur. The sculpture reminds students and visitors that with grit, integrity, perseverance, and a commitment to community, anything is possible.
He embodied both the classic American rags-to-riches story while often defying convention ... making it clear that the entire American West would be a different place had David Eccles not made that fateful westward journey in 1863.
—DAVID M. KENNEDY, Donald J. McLachlan Professor of History Emeritus, Stanford University
A 'Giant in our City'
Foundation president and COO Lisa Eccles was profoundly touched and honored to be named the Salt Lake Chamber's 46th Giant in our City, widely regarded as the most prestigious business award given in Utah. Lisa followed in the footsteps of previous Giants including her father Spence Eccles and her uncle George Eccles. In accepting the award, Lisa used the opportunity to spotlight the nonprofits that strengthen Utah communities.
Through the years, I've been fortunate to see Utah's goodness up close and personal as we've partnered with hundreds of dedicated nonprofit leaders and volunteers who are 'boots on the ground,' making a difference in every corner of our state.
—LISA ECCLES
Spence Eccles Drive Dedication
On a warm fall day, University of Utah President Randall surprised the Foundation's CEO and Chairman with the exciting news that 1900 East on campus would be renamed Spence Eccles Drive. For over 60 years, Spence and his family have long supported the U, and their impact can be seen along the newly named road. The area features the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library, Emma Eccles Jones Medical Research Building, Cleone Peterson Eccles Center for Breast Health, Eccles Center of Excellence in Ophthalmic Education, George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Critical Care Pavillion, Hope Fox Eccles Clinical Health Library, Spencer F. and Cleone P. Eccles Health Sciences Education Building, Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research & Training Institute, George & Dolores Eccles Institute of Human Genetics, and the new Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine. Beyond campus, the Eccles Health Campus and Eccles Hospital is currently under construction in West Valley City.
A true Utah man, Spence's vision has strengthened higher education, expanded opportunity, and positioned Utah as a center for learning and innovation. His greatest legacy will live on in the thousands of students empowered to lead and succeed because of opportunities he helped create.
'Entrepreneur of the Year'
A true visionary in Utah's banking industry, Spence Eccles was honored by the MountainWest Capital Network for his leadership and impact over decades in the financial sector. Spence spent nearly two decades as Chairman and CEO of First Security Corporation, but his leadership extends far beyond banking. He has served on the boards of numerous prestigious organizations including Union Pacific, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Parks Foundation, Wells Fargo & Company, and Intermountain Healthcare.
My connection to Utah runs deep through generations of the Eccles family, and I've dedicated my life to ensuring the vitality and growth of our great state. From banking to philanthropy, my goal has always been to support and advocate for the people of Utah.
—SPENCER FOX ECCLES