When surveyed, Utah Valley residents said they want wise water management, convenient transportation choices, clean air, a well-educated population, housing options, local agriculture, and open spaces with recreation opportunities in the future. The Growth and Prosperity Summit, held at Utah Valley University on Oct. 27 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Sorensen Student Center, will bring hundreds of people together to create forward-thinking, long-term solutions to the challenges associated with growth.

“We all know that the future doesn’t happen automatically,” said Astrid S. Tuminez, President of Utah Valley University. “Join the Utah Valley Chamber and UVU as we convene leaders to talk about the most critical social and economic issues facing the region. We want a valley of growth and prosperity, a valley of collective well-being.”

President Tuminez is one of 40 thought leaders, including Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox, UVU legislators, Utah County mayors, business and education leaders, and policymakers, who will weigh in on plans for future growth and the economic outlook of Utah County at the summit.

“This summit will convey important information regarding the growth and the economy for every person and organization within Utah Valley,” said Curtis Blair, president and CEO of the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce. He encouraged students, faculty, and staff at UVU to get involved.

“Just as the Valley is in a continuous cycle of growth and evolution, so too should the minds, teachings, and actions of our educators and students, who will carry on the opportunity to direct how we grow for decades to come,” Blair said. “By obverting new things, listening, and understanding unique strategies, our perception broadens and changes the way we see the world. “

“This is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to learn and work together and make our community a good place for everyone,” said Leonard Bagalwa, Founder and Executive Director of Utah Valley Refugees.

Elise Powley from Clyde Companies agreed that the Growth and Prosperity Summit creates opportunities to work together as organizations, cities, and neighborhoods, creating a space to share ideas and improve the quality of life in Utah County.

 “The more minds and advocates we have at the table, the better the outcomes are going to be. Growth is complicated, but it’s exciting,” she said. “This is an amazing opportunity for us to get together and start to plan out and think about how to make Utah County great for everyone.”

The Summit will also provide insight into current trends.

“We have seen major economic shifts over the last 12 months,” Blair said. “This year’s summit will address and attempt to make sense of the trends we have seen in housing stock, inflation, supply-chain constraints, ESG proposals, and much more.”

“It’s just a really great opportunity to get together to discuss a lot of issues that are facing business as well as opportunities,” said Utah State Representative Cory Maloy.

Everyone is invited to attend. “We need our best minds to engage in this dialog so that our children and grandchildren can benefit from our best effort,” Blair said.

To register, go to uvsummit.com. Virtual admission is $25, student admission is $10, non-profit access is $35, and general admission is $50. Breakfast and lunch are included for those who participate in person. Business-casual dress is encouraged for those in attendance.