Ogden — Douglas L. DeFries, Bank of Utah president and CEO, was recently honored with one of Utah Bankers Association’s highest honors, the Distinguished Banker Award. Every few years, the Utah Bankers Association recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to their community, their bank and the banking industry. Since the award was introduced, only 25 individuals have been given this honor.
“This award memorializes the fact that through his exemplary service to the community, the State of Utah, his bank, his industry and the Utah Bankers Association, Doug DeFries has truly distinguished himself as a tremendous example of what a bank leader should be,” says Howard M. Headlee, president and CEO, Utah Bankers Association.
Since joining Bank of Utah in 1986, DeFries has led the bank through various economic cycles impacting the state and the country. Under his leadership, Bank of Utah has become one of the highest-performing banks in the nation. In addition to overseeing the bank’s operations, DeFries has strived to incorporate ways for Bank of Utah to help those in need in the community. He has served for many years on the board of directors and as chairman for the Ogden/Weber Chamber, and has served on numerous boards in the area. DeFries has given back to the banking industry specifically through his time on the Utah Bankers Association board where he has also been the chairman. On a national level, he continues to serve on banking committees, including the Community Bank Council of the American Bankers Association.
“It is a true honor to receive this recognition,” says DeFries. “At Bank of Utah we believe that as a community bank, it is our responsibility to serve where we can to ensure our community is a great place to work, live and raise a family. Thank you to all of our customers and employees for their contribution to Bank of Utah’s success. I look forward to Utah’s continued growth and prosperity.”
Bank of Utah was established in 1952 in Ogden, Utah by the Frank M. Browning family, and has grown to be one of the top banks in the U.S., ranking in the top 11 percent for total assets, the top 7 percent for net income. With 17 full-service branches throughout Utah and trust teams in Ogden and Salt Lake City, Bank of Utah offers business and personal banking, mortgage and commercial lending, and trust services. For more information, call 801-409-5000 or visit bankofutah.com.