Washington Federal reports that on Jan. 2, 2023, the President and CEO of Washington Federal, Inc. and Washington Federal Bank (dba WaFd Bank), Brent Beardall, was one of four people on board a private plane that crashed in Provo, UT shortly after takeoff. He was transported by ambulance to the hospital with broken bones and lacerations, underwent surgery later that day, and is expected to make a full recovery. Beardall will take a temporary leave of absence from his duties as President and CEO while he recovers, and Executive Vice President and Chief Consumer Banker, Cathy Cooper, will temporarily assume Beardall’s duties.

Washington Federal’s Chairman of the Board, Stephen Graham, said, “We want to express our condolences for the family of Nathan Ricks, who died in this tragic accident. All of us at WaFd are grateful that Brent is expected to make a full recovery and look forward to his return to normal duties shortly. We have every confidence in our strong management team’s ability to move forward with the execution of the Bank’s strategy.”

Update on Brent Beardall’s Condition

“Dear WaFd Bank Colleagues, Clients and Investors, we wish to update you on the condition of our President and CEO Brent Beardall and another banker, Utah Commercial Division Manager Dane Margetts, who were injured in a plane crash on Jan. 2 in Provo, UT Both Brent and Dane were admitted to Utah Valley Hospital and are expected to make a full recovery. While Dane was released hours after the accident with only minor injuries, Brent sustained broken bones and lacerations that require surgery and time to recover.

“Many of you know Brent well, consider him a most loyal friend and communicate with him regularly. We want to assure you he is receiving excellent medical care along with his family’s love and support. We ask for your patience and understanding as those of you who check in with him often are used to quick responses. His recovery will be his priority at this time and the healing process is underway. As Brent recovers, Executive Vice President and Chief Consumer Banker, Cathy Cooper, will temporarily assume Mr. Beardall’s duties. Despite this short-term setback, Brent is in good spirits and charging ahead like the typically ambitious Brent Beardall.

“Please know that your bankers are here for you at any time. We have a great team at WaFd to make sure our day-to-day business operations continue smoothly as we await Brent’s return to the office. Brent, his family, and all of us at WaFd Bank appreciate your thoughts and well-wishes.”

Respectfully,
WaFd Bank Management Team

The company will provide additional updates as they become available.