We’re at it again, and this year we’re raising the bar. MeridianLink® LIVE! 2026 is bringing together an exceptional lineup of keynote speakers who know what it takes to lead through change, challenge the status quo, and turn disruption into opportunity. From powerful stories of resilience and leadership to data-driven insights on the economy and housing market, and a clear vision for the future of lending, you’ll walk away inspired, informed, and ready to take action at your institution.
This year’s event will take place May 11–14, 2026, against the backdrop of San Diego’s waterfront views and sunshine at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. It’s the perfect setting to step away from day-to-day demands, connect with peers across banks and credit unions, and focus on what’s next for your organization.
Already registered? Great! We can’t wait to see you. Not yet? Register before April 20 to save $100.
Tony Hawk, Legendary Skateboarder & Entrepreneur Founder, The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation)
The most recognized action sports figure in the world, Tony Hawk was just nine-years old when his brother changed his life by giving him a blue fiberglass Bahne skateboard. By 14 he’d turned pro, and by 16 he was widely considered the best skateboarder on earth. He was world champion 12 years in a row and is a 16-time X Games medalist. In 1999, he became the first skater to ever complete a 900, the holy grail of vert skating. Shortly thereafter, he teamed up with Activision to launch Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, now a billion dollar video game franchise. Tony authored a New York Times bestseller, the bio HAWK—Occupation: Skateboarder, and his book How Did I Get Here? The Ascent of an Unlikely CEO, covers the business side of his career. And in 2022, a biographical documentary film titled “Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off” by award-winning director Sam Jones debuted on HBO, giving an in-depth look at Tony’s legendary career and personal life. In 2002, Tony founded The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation), which has given away over $10 million to help fund over 650 public skatepark projects throughout the United States that serve over six million visitors a year.
Jake Wood, Executive Chairman of Team Rubicon, Founder and CEO of Groundswell and Marine Corps Scout-Sniper
Jake Wood is an award-winning entrepreneur, two-time author, and recognized expert on topics of leadership, organizational culture and crisis management. Jake founded Team Rubicon – the fastest growing and most innovative disaster response organization in the world. Since 2010, Team Rubicon has grown to over 200,000 volunteers and responded to nearly 1,200 crises around the world. Prior to Team Rubicon, Jake served as a Marine Corps scout-sniper with combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and was a varsity football player for the Wisconsin Badgers. He recently founded Groundswell, a revolutionary venture-backed financial technology company that is looking to disrupt philanthropy and employee compensation.
Logan Mohtashami, HousingWire, Lead Analyst
We are so excited to welcome back HousingWire’s lead analyst, Logan Mohtashami, to the MeridianLink LIVE! stage. He brings over two decades of experience in the mortgage industry. Renowned as “The Chart Guy” and recognized for his insightful analysis of the U.S. economy and real estate market, Logan’s ability to decode complex economic data and provide actionable insights has made him a sought-after commentator. Fueled by a passion for data and economics, coupled with years of direct lending experience, Logan is a frequent presence on major platforms such as CNBC, the HousingWire Daily podcast, and industry conference speaking stages.
Larry Katz, MeridianLink CEO and President
In his inaugural MeridianLink LIVE! keynote as CEO, Larry Katz will share the company’s vision for the future and how MeridianLink is harnessing AI and data to empower financial Institutions with smarter, faster lending solutions. He will outline the strategic priorities driving innovation and growth, and how MeridianLink is partnering with banks and credit unions to deliver fully digital experiences that expand reach, deepen relationships, and unlock new opportunities.
Troy Coggiola, MeridianLink Chief Strategy Officer
Troy Coggiola will dive into MeridianLink’s growth strategy, including build, buy, and partner initiatives designed to strengthen the company’s ecosystem and deliver greater value to financial institutions. His keynote will explore how strategic investments and partnerships are shaping the future of lending technology–creating a connected, agile platform that helps banks and credit unions stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Explore the full LIVE! agenda to see more sessions, speakers, and key events!
