SEPT. NIBJ: Movers & Shakers - Aug. 25, 2026
Morgan named new IDL economist for North Idaho
Lorren Morgan is the new Idaho Department of Labor regional labor economist for northern Idaho, covering Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai and Shoshone counties. He replaces the previous economist, Sam Wolkenhauer, who is the research analyst supervisor at the department.
Morgan earned a bachelor’s of science in biology with two minors in economics and chemistry from Eastern Washington University in 2022.
He briefly attended the University of Washington School of Medicine before pivoting toward economics to complete a post‑baccalaureate bachelor’s of science in economics at EWU in 2026.
The department’s labor economists conduct research projects on the economics, labor market and demographics of Idaho and the regions they represent. They deliver insight and presentations to businesses, media, communities, state and local agencies, elected officials and department staff.
To reach Morgan, email [email protected].
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Innovia Foundation receives 'Building Together' Award
The Innovia Foundation has been honored with the Council on Foundations’ first-ever “Building Together” Award, presented at the Council’s Building Together Conference held May 5–7 in Seattle. The award recognizes philanthropic organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to collaboration, community partnership, and bringing people together across lines of difference.
Innovia Foundation was selected for its deep and sustained investment in community-driven solutions across Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Through its grantmaking, convening power, and leadership in cross-sector partnerships, Innovia has worked to strengthen local capacity, elevate community voice, and align resources around the region’s most pressing challenges.
“It’s evident that there is a genuine love of people and community undergirding the work,” wrote one of the judges who selected Innovia for the council award.
The foundation’s approach emphasizes trust-based philanthropy, long-term relationship building, and a belief that lasting change is rooted in collaboration. This work has earned support from national funders like the Trust for Civic Life and the Aspen Institute.
“Innovia Foundation exemplifies what it means to build together,” said Kathleen Enright, President and CEO, Council on Foundations. “Their work reflects a clear commitment to engaging communities as partners, fostering regional collaboration, and advancing opportunities for all.”
The recognition highlights Innovia’s role in bringing together nonprofits, civic leaders, donors, and residents to co-create solutions that reflect local priorities. From rural community initiatives to regional economic development efforts, Innovia has consistently centered shared leadership in its work.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Council on Foundations’ inaugural ‘Building Together’ Award,” said Shelly O’Quinn, CEO of Innovia Foundation. “This recognition belongs to the many partners, organizations, and community members who show up every day to strengthen our region. At Innovia, we believe that vibrant and sustainable communities are built together, where every person has the opportunity to thrive, and this award affirms the power of that shared vision.”
The Building Together Conference brought philanthropic leaders from across the country to Seattle to explore strategies for advancing collaboration and strengthening community impact. Innovia’s recognition underscores the importance of regional foundations in fostering connection, trust, and coordinated action.
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Idaho honors bankcda for 25 years of service
The Idaho Department of Finance (IDOF) and Governor Brad Little recognized bankcda of Coeur d’Alene on June 17, 2026, for 25 years of service to the financial well‑being of Idahoans. A Certificate of Appreciation was presented to bankcda during its Board meeting on June 17, 2026. The certificate, jointly signed by Governor Little and IDOF Director Salvador Cruz, recognizes the bank’s long‑standing service, financial stewardship, and commitment to the communities it serves.
“Community banks chartered and supervised by the Idaho Department of Finance play a vital role in supporting local economies. They provide access to credit, serve small businesses, and offer the kind of personalized financial services that help communities thrive. Our oversight helps ensure these institutions operate safely and soundly for the benefit of Idaho consumers. For 25 years, bankcda has reflected these values, and we are pleased to recognize this milestone,” said Salvador Cruz, Director of the Idaho Department of Finance.
Idaho chartered financial institutions play an important role in Idaho’s financial landscape by strengthening local economies and providing services tailored to the needs of the communities they serve. IDOF’s regulatory oversight supports the safe and sound operation of these institutions for the benefit of Idaho consumers.
bankcda was established on May 17, 2001, in Coeur d’Alene and has grown steadily over the past 25 years to serve communities across North Idaho and the Inland Northwest. The bank operates multiple branches throughout the region under the leadership of President and CEO Wes Veach.
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Kavulla sworn in as BPA’s 17th administrator
Travis Kavulla was sworn in recently as the new administrator and CEO of the Bonneville Power Administration by U.S. Under Secretary of Energy Kyle Haustveit, becoming the 17th administrator in BPA’s 89-year history. Kavulla will oversee BPA’s vital mission of delivering affordable, reliable and secure power to the Northwest.
“The Northwest is blessed with abundant hydropower as you all know, and it has provided critical power for Americans for decades. And it will continue to do so for decades to come. You all, along with the work you do and the infrastructure you support, are deeply woven into the fabric of the Northwest,” said Hausveit during a ceremony in Portland. “Travis, I look forward to partnering with you and with all of you at BPA… It’s a unique time in history, and I believe Travis is the right person to answer the call and serve our country."
BPA faces several unique challenges and opportunities, ranging from significantly expanding transmission infrastructure to best position the region for exponential load growth and exploring new energy markets to upholding statutory obligations such as mitigating the impacts of the federal power and transmission system on fish and wildlife.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, who announced Kavulla’s appointment on June 22, noted the pivotal timing of Kavulla’s leadership.
“This Administration is committed to restoring American energy dominance and your leadership is essential in delivering real, measurable results for the American people,” Wright wrote in a welcome letter to Kavulla. “I encourage you to bring your bold ideas forward and help us accelerate and expand energy production. This is a pivotal moment for America and for DOE.”
Kavulla brings more than 15 years of experience as an energy policy expert and state regulator to this role. He has dedicated his career to developing solutions for affordable, reliable energy in a highly complex industry, focusing on streamlining policies to meet growing power and transmission demands while protecting existing customers from the costs of system upgrades.
He most recently served as the Head of Policy for Base Power Company and as the vice president of Regulatory Affairs at NRG Energy. Previously, Kavulla served eight years as a commissioner at the Montana Public Service Commission, including as chairman, and is a former president of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners.
“I have served nearly a decade previously in public service, on behalf of the people of Montana, and to join the senior executive service of the United States Government to serve the nation and this region feels like a continuation of that vocation, a calling I could not resist,” Kavulla said during the swearing-in ceremony. “In the coming months, I look forward to getting to know Bonneville’s customers, the region’s members of Congress, and our state and tribal partners. I trust you will not be circumspect about your opinions, and as anyone who knows me can attest, I value an open dialogue, a good debate, and even friendly disagreements as we together work to accomplish shared goals.”
Kavulla received a bachelor’s degree in history from Harvard University and has a master’s in history from the University of Cambridge. He is also a lecturer at the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy.
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Guel joins Cancer Care Northwest
Cancer Care Northwest announced the addition of Ramon J. Guel, MBA, as senior director of payer strategy and relations.
In the leadership position, Guel will oversee payer strategy initiatives, strengthen relationships with health plan partners and help advance the organization’s strategic objectives through contracting, regulatory compliance and partnership development.
Guel brings healthcare leadership experience focused on contract negotiations, regulatory compliance and risk management. Throughout his career, he has developed and managed payer relationships while working in areas related to operational excellence, financial stewardship and patient-centered outcomes.
Guel earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Troy University in Alabama, a Master of English Literature degree from Heritage University in Washington, a Master of Business Administration degree from Concordia University in Oregon and a post-graduate certificate in healthcare leadership from Gonzaga University in Spokane.
Outside of work, Guel is interested in watchmaking and is a member of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors.
Cancer Care Northwest, a physician-owned oncology practice, has operated in Spokane for more than 50 years. The practice includes more than 24 physicians specializing in medical, surgical and radiation oncology, as well as advanced practice providers. The organization operates six clinics throughout Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.
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Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho earns industry recognition
Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho has been recognized among the nation's top-performing property and casualty insurance companies for the third consecutive year, earning a place on the 2026 Ward's Top 50 list.
The recognition reflects the company's financial strength, disciplined growth and long-term commitment to serving customers.
"This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects consistent performance over time," said Todd Argall, president and CEO of Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho. "Receiving this honor for a third consecutive year demonstrates the outstanding teamwork, dedication and care our employees and agents bring to serving our customers and communities every day."
Argall said the recognition highlights the company's commitment to making sound decisions, keeping promises to policyholders and maintaining long-term stability for future generations.
The Ward Group, which evaluates nearly 3,000 property and casualty insurance companies annually, selects companies for its Top 50 list based on financial strength and performance over a five-year period. Evaluations consider factors including return on equity, premium growth, policyholder surplus and operational efficiency.
Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho, along with affiliate Western Community Insurance Company, earned its 2026 recognition based on financial results from 2021 through 2025. During that period, the companies ranked among the top 2% of all property and casualty insurers in the United States.
Guel
Farm Bureau Insurance Company of Idaho has been recognized among the nation's top-performing property and casualty insurance companies for the third consecutive year, earning a place on the 2026 Ward's Top 50 list.