Oakland, CA – (September 23, 2016): Michael Colbruno, president of the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners was honored last night for his leadership within the LGBT business community. The Golden Gate Business Association recognized the commissioner for his election as the first LGBT person to become president of the Board. The event was held in Jack London Square, a key asset within the Port’s commercial real estate portfolio.
President Colbruno helped create the nation’s first LGBT Port affinity group along with San Francisco Port Commissioner Leslie Katz and San Diego Port Commissioner Bob Nelson. The group’s mission is to help make California ports safe and welcoming for LGBT employees.
“I am honored to receive this award because it represents all the amazing LGBT employees who work within the maritime profession,” said President Colbruno. “My goal has been to help foster greater equality within the workplace where everyone can work productively while living authentically.”
President Colbruno is a partner in the Milo Group of California, a public affairs firm. His career in public service includes serving on Oakland’s Planning Commission. Prior to that, President Colbruno worked in local and state government as a legislative director and chief-of-staff in the San Francisco Mayor’s office, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, and California State Legislature.
The Golden Gate Business Association is the first business organization founded by LGBT entrepreneurs. The non-profit consists of more than 350 business entities, community organizations and individuals.
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport, Oakland International Airport, and 20 miles of waterfront. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 73,000 jobs in the region and nearly 827,000 jobs across the United States. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.
Media contacts:
Robert Bernardo
Communications Manager
Port of Oakland
Tel. 510-627-1401
Marilyn Sandifur
Port Spokesperson
Port of Oakland
Tel. 510-627-1193
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