Let's Do Lunch: Leading with Purpose. Inspiring the Future.

Description

Join us for an inspiring celebration of leadership, connection, and community as we recognize the graduates of the WCF Leadership South Valley program!

Throughout this year-long experience, participants have gained valuable insight into the issues shaping Salt Lake County, strengthened their leadership perspectives, and built meaningful relationships with business and community leaders. Their journey reflects a shared commitment to making a positive and lasting impact in the communities we serve.

We are honored to welcome Thurl Bailey, former NBA standout, Utah Jazz television analyst, and inspirational speaker, as our commencement speaker. From his championship basketball career to his continued involvement in business and community leadership, Thurl's journey reflects the power of perseverance, character, and leading with purpose.

We invite our Chamber members, business and community leaders, graduates, and their guests to join us as we celebrate this year's graduating class, recognize their accomplishments, and draw inspiration from a message that reminds us of the difference strong leadership can make.

Together, let's celebrate today's leaders and inspire tomorrow's possibilities!
 
About Our Speaker:

From the youth to the corporate world, Thurl Bailey inspires others to win whatever the odds or disappointments. Master storyteller and accomplished speaker, he inspires companies and individuals to focus on what matters most; to persevere, build winning teams, encourage peak performance, develop leadership, and discover opportunity in change.
                       
Twice Thurl has led teams from far behind to win national championships. His most recognized title was the 1983 North Carolina State Wolfpack team which beat the famed University of Houston (Phi-Slamma-Jamma) Cougars, featuring Hakeem Olajuwon & Clyde Drexler. That nation championship game was voted top 5 finishes of all time of any sporting event. Because of his outstanding leadership skills and the quality of his character, as well as his impressive basketball skills, he was drafted by the Utah Jazz as the 1983 7th overall pick of the N. B.A. Draft. Thurl spent twelve of his sixteen-year professional basketball career in the N. B. A., and four years playing overseas, in Italy and Greece. His courtesy and integrity both on and off the court and his strong sense of community service have led to numerous civic awards and earned him the nickname "N.B.A.'s Mr. Nice Guy".
 
When you meet Thurl Bailey you first notice a tall (6' 11") athlete. But he is a man of as much depth as height. Thurl is a gifted inspirational singer and songwriter. His first album, "Faith In Your Heart", released in 2000 was a best seller. His second album, "The Gift of Christmas", released the following year, also experienced record sales. His latest released CD is entitled, "I'm Not The Same", is a selection of uplifting R & B tunes. Among his many musical awards are the 2000 Pearl Awards of Best Contemporary Recording and Best New Artist of the Year.
 
His other awards include the N. B. A.'s prestigious J. Walter Kennedy Community Service Award, the Utah Association for Gifted Children Community Service Award, Sigma Gamma Chi Fraternity's Exemplary Manhood Award, The Great Salt Lake Council of the Boy Scouts of America's American Champion Award, and the Italian League's 1998 All Star Games' Most Valuable Player.
 
One of Thurl's favorite activities is the non-profit youth basketball program he has led for over 20 years. His XFactor program teaches important life skills, and have now been expanded to the corporate world to help businesses build winning teams and effective leaders.
 
Thurl leads a busy life as a professional speaker, singer/songwriter, businessman, community advocate and game analyst for the Utah Jazz. He is a devoted family man. He and his wife Sindi live in Salt Lake City, Utah with their three children.

Leadership South Valley is a year-long enrichment program designed to equip business leaders with a deeper understanding of the critical issues affecting Salt Lake County communities. Through expert-led sessions and interactive discussions, participants will broaden their knowledge, gain fresh perspectives on key challenges, and expand their professional networks. The program offers invaluable opportunities to build meaningful relationships, collaborate with other local leaders, and foster personal and professional growth. This immersive experience is tailored to help participants deepen their expertise and engage with like-minded professionals, creating a strong foundation for future leadership and community impact.