Speaker Biographies

Speakers

First Lady Abby Cox

Abby Palmer Cox became Utah’s first lady when her husband Spencer J. Cox was sworn in as governor on January 4, 2021. As Utah’s first lady, Abby hopes to inspire Utahns to break down barriers that separate people from treating one another as equals. She is an outspoken advocate for “getting proximate,” connecting through our differences, and combating the empathy crisis our country is facing. Abby’s initiative is called “Show Up,” and she uses her platform to convene, contribute to, and champion projects related to social and emotional learning, statewide service, foster care awareness, and sporting opportunities for children who live with physical or intellectual disabilities.

Chaitali Patel, MBA

Chaitali Patel is Chief Impact Officer at 100 Women in Finance, a global association of women executives in asset management with 27 locations worldwide. Chaitali is a highly reputable social impact, finance, and fintech executive. Prior to joining 100 Women in Finance, she founded Evergood, an ESG, and sustainability consulting firm. In addition, she led the B2B finance arm of Foundation Group, a New York-based financial technology firm, as head of Catalyst Solutions. Her fifteen-plus years in the sector included extensive experience with business strategy, product management, bank operations, channel management, and financial reporting.

Alison Flynn Gaffney MHA, FACHE

Alison Flynn Gaffney has been a healthcare industry leader for over three decades. Throughout her career, Alison has advocated for empowering female and diverse leaders. She is passionate about equity in the workplace. Alison Flynn Gaffney currently serves as the interim chief operating officer at University of Utah Health Hospitals and Clinics (UUHC) and executive director of University Hospital and is responsible for the UUHC Services Lines and System Planning. Previously, Alison was the executive director responsible for the UUHC Perioperative, Imaging, Lab, and Ancillary Services. Alison has been with the University of Utah Health since 2017.