Award-Winning Voice Actress to Keynote the 2026 One Utah Summit

The One Utah Summit is proud to announce award-winning voice actress and public speaker, Kat Cressida, as a keynote speaker for the 2026 One Utah Summit, taking place Aug. 4-6, 2026, at Southern Utah University in Cedar City.

Known for bringing to life some of entertainment’s most iconic characters, Cressida’s celebrated career spans more than three decades. Her career includes work with Disney, Pixar, HBO, ESPN, Cartoon Network, FOX, and Warner Bros. Her voice can be heard in beloved roles including Constance Hatchaway, the Black Widow Bride in Disney’s Haunted Mansion, Dee Dee from Dexter’s Laboratory, and Jessie in various Toy Story games.

Yet behind the success lies an extraordinary story of resilience. At the height of her career, Cressida received a devastating cancer diagnosis that threatened not only her life, but her voice, identity, and future. Facing experimental surgery and the possibility of permanent disfigurement and chronic pain, she found herself confronting seemingly unbeatable odds.

In her powerful keynote, “Flipping the Script: How to Re-Write Your Stars,” Cressida will share her deeply personal journey from the brightest professional highs to life’s darkest moments and back to the light. Through humor, storytelling, and heartfelt vulnerability, she will reveal the lessons learned through adversity and how resilience and hope can help individuals reclaim their purpose and rewrite their stars.

“Kat’s story is a true reflection of what the Summit is all about,” said Donna Law, Director of the One Utah Summit. “Kat’s journey reminds us that even life’s greatest challenges can become opportunities for growth and lasting impact. Her message of perseverance will deeply resonate with communities across Utah.”

The One Utah Summit’s theme, “Building Prosperity for Generations,” is inspired by the Bristlecone Pine. The tree’s enduring strength is a reminder that prosperity is built through courage to weather difficult seasons.

About the One Utah Summit

The One Utah Summit, also known as the Governor’s Rural Summit, is Utah’s main event for community members, leaders, and changemakers. It brings people from all backgrounds together to share ideas, find common goals, and leave with the tools and motivation to help shape Utah’s future.
Join us on Aug. 4-6, 2026, on the campus of Southern Utah University. Learn more about the One Utah Summit.

Tags: Cedar City Utah

Contact Information

SUU Marketing & Communications
435-586-5400
kimberlysawyer@suu.edu