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There are few surnames as recognizable along the Wasatch Front as Eccles.
Now, there's one more reason to honor the name, as the Salt Lake Chamber recognizes Lisa Eccles, president and COO of the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, as the 46th Giant in our City during an event on April 24 at the Grand America Hotel.
The award, considered the Chamber's highest honor, recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Utah's business and community landscape. Eccles joins a distinguished list of past recipients, including her great-uncle, George S. Eccles and her father, Spencer F. Eccles.
A legacy of philanthropy
For more than three decades, Eccles has played a leading role in one of Utah's largest private philanthropic foundations, guiding its support for arts and culture, education, health and wellness, community initiatives, and preservation and conservation efforts.
Since 1982, the foundation has awarded nearly $1 billion in grants to nonprofit organizations across the state.
"As an engaged philanthropist and thoughtful community leader, Lisa Eccles has supported Utah nonprofits and their work lifting others for decades," said Derek Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber. "Her passion for giving back along with her unwavering dedication to building our community have impacted countless lives."
Eccles, who serves as both president and COO of the foundation, began her tenure in 1989 as its sole employee. Over time, she helped shape its mission and operations, expanding its reach and deepening its impact.
Today, the foundation distributes nearly 400 grants annually to organizations that enhance the quality of life for Utah residents.
A hands-on approach to giving
Beyond her work at the foundation, Eccles has been a key supporter of a range of community projects and initiatives. She helped cofound Utah Community Builders, an initiative of the Salt Lake Chamber that addresses community issues.
She has also played an instrumental role in efforts to combat homelessness through the Utah Impact Partnership.
Eccles continues to support the restoration of historic sites across Utah, including the Brigham Young Academy in Provo, the Grafton ghost town in southern Utah, and the Petersen Dance Hall in Fairview.
Her contributions to Utah's arts and culture sector include work with Ballet West, where she advised on new costumes for the annual Nutcracker production, and the Salt Lake County Center for the Arts, where she played a significant role in bringing the Eccles Theater to Salt Lake's Main Street.
Her involvement in national organizations such as serving on the National Park Foundation Board, helps to preserve America's national treasures. And she is highly respected for her work championing youth education and athletics, working with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, United Way, among many others throughout the state.
A commitment to Utah's future
Eccles' work isn't just about improving life in Utah, but also shaping its future. She was involved in bringing the 2002 Winter Olympics to Salt Lake City and has contributed to efforts to secure the return of the Games in 2034.
As a former member of the University of Utah Board of Trustees, she chaired the university's inaugural campus master plan committee, guiding long-term development strategies.
Eccles' leadership has earned her many accolades already. She was named one of Utah's Most Influential Women by Utah Business Magazine, received the Sundance Institute's Women's Leadership Award, and was awarded an honorary doctorate from Utah State University.
For Eccles, however, the true reward comes from seeing the impact of the work she champions.
"My parents instilled in me and my siblings a deep love for Utah and for all those who live here," Eccles said. "It's been a tremendous honor and joy over so many years to partner with outstanding organizations that enhance our quality of life."
A family tradition of service
Eccles grew up in a family that emphasized service, philanthropy and adventure. Raised in Utah, she attended Skyline High School, where she was an accomplished tennis player, skier and cheerleader.
She later earned a degree in art history from the University of Utah, studying abroad in London and Cambridge, which helped cultivate her lifelong passion for art and culture.
Her parents, Spencer F. Eccles and Cleone Peterson Eccles, set an example of giving that she has carried forward. Today, she remains closely connected to her siblings, Hope, Katie and Spencer, and is a devoted aunt to her nieces and nephews.
As she prepares to accept the Giant in our City Award, Eccles remains focused on the good that can be done because of it.
"I'm humbled by this recognition, and I hope this award will also shine a light on the incredible work of our dedicated nonprofits that help Utah children, families and communities thrive," she said in the release.
The Salt Lake Chamber's Giant in our City event will bring together business and community leaders to celebrate Eccles' legacy of giving. Tickets for the April 24 celebration are available through the Salt Lake Chamber's website.
