Utah Association of Counties
Utah Association of Counties, a statewide organization supporting governance and leadership across Utah’s 29 counties.
AUDIENCE: 300+ county leaders and elected officials
LOCATION: Murray, Utah
CHALLENGE: Navigating complex policy advocacy, managing limited resources, and fostering collaboration among counties while balancing state and local government relationships and the diverse and evolving needs of Utah’s counties.
CARA BROOKINS’ SOLUTION:
Keynote: “Rise & Resilience: The True Story”
Hosted Q&A session and community engagement follow-up
Scheduled and coordinated through Keppler
At the Utah Association of Counties annual conference, over 300 public officials and government leaders convened in Murray to sharpen their leadership skills and reconnect with their mission of service. This year, the organization wanted to begin with something different, something emotionally powerful and universally relatable.
Cara Brookins delivered her keynote, “Rise & Resilience: The True Story,” a message grounded in grit, resourcefulness, and the belief that personal transformation leads to professional impact. With her story of building a home with her children as the centerpiece, she showed attendees that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back, it’s about building forward.
Audience response was overwhelmingly positive. Cara’s practical lessons and authentic delivery made the keynote one of the most memorable parts of the event. For public servants managing the weight of their roles, her message reinforced that purpose and perseverance go hand in hand.
“She inspired. She uplifted. And she thoroughly convinced our attendees that they can accomplish far more than they believe is possible.”
— Doug Perry, Communications Director, Utah Association of Counties
