FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 28, 2026
Veteran Healthcare Leader Becky Hultberg to Guide National Organization
WASHINGTON, DC – State Business Executives (SBE), the national organization connecting executives who lead state trade associations, chambers, and business roundtables, announced today their new board leadership elected to head the organization in 2026.
The new SBE Board executive committee includes:
Board Chair: Becky Hultberg, President and CEO, Hospital Association of Oregon
Vice Chair: Pat Fong Kushida, President & CEO, California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce
Treasurer: Brewster Bevis, President & CEO, Associated Industries of Florida
Past-Chair: Peter Guzman, President & CEO, Latin Chamber of Commerce of Nevada
Lorrie Trogden, President & CEO, Arkansas Bankers Association
Hultberg brings extensive experience in healthcare leadership and cross-sector collaboration to her new role. As President and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon, she has worked closely with government leaders, business coalitions, and healthcare organizations to advance community health and strengthen Oregon’s health care system. Her prior roles include serving as President and CEO of the Alaska State Hospital and Nursing Home Association and as Commissioner of Alaska’s Department of Administration.
“I’m excited to lead the SBE board and help drive meaningful change,” said Hultberg. “Working together, we have an opportunity to advance policies that grow the economy, strengthen the workforce, and support businesses navigating an increasingly complicated environment.”
Jeff Wasden, President and CEO of State Business Executives, praised the transition and thanked outgoing Board Chair Peter Guzman for his service. “Peter has been an outstanding chair, guiding SBE through a period of significant growth and impact,” Wasden said. “Becky brings a unique perspective and proven track record that will help us build on that momentum and tackle the critical issues facing American businesses today. Our executive committee forms a dynamic team that’s ready to address the opportunities and challenges ahead.”
The new leadership team takes the helm as SBE continues to focus on its core policy priorities, including workforce development, infrastructure investment, immigration reform, sustainability initiatives, and ensuring equity and diversity in the business community.
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About State Business Executives State Business Executives through advocacy, education, and collaboration works to proactively support and develop non-partisan solutions that promote success for American businesses, workers, and communities. We convene state business leaders to foster, cultivate, and sustain an optimal business climate, drive business prosperity, and advance a strong national economy. To learn more visit statebusinessexecutives.org.