Prosper Portland is pleased to welcome Felisa Hagins to its Board of Commissioners. Portland City Council approved her appointment, along with the reappointment of Chair Gustavo J. Cruz Jr., at its June 5 meeting.
Felisa Hagins is the Oregon State Council Director of Service Employees International Union (SEIU). She has dedicated her career to advocating for fair labor practices and economic equity, ensuring that every worker, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. Felisa’s experience in labor relations, labor policy, housing advocacy, commercial development, and workforce development has equipped her with a deep understanding of the economic challenges that diverse communities face in Portland. Felisa is committed to bringing this crucial perspective to the forefront, striving to implement strategies that elevate economic prosperity and create equitable opportunities across all sectors of our city.
Gustavo J. Cruz, Jr. is a partner in the law firm of Hathaway Larson LLP, with a practice in commercial finance, corporate finance and general business matters. His professional background includes work as a commercial banker, a partner in an AMLAW 100 law firm, and in-house counsel with a large financial institution. He has served on Prosper Portland’s Board of Commissioners since 2015 and has served as chair since 2017.
Commissioner Hagins replaces outgoing Commissioner Willy Myers, who had served on Prosper Portland’s Board since July 2015. His last meeting was on June 18. The continuing members of the Board are Marcelino Alvarez, Michi Slick, and Serena Stoudamire Wesley.
Commissioner Hagins and Chair Cruz will each serve a three-year term expiring in July 2027. Commissioner Hagins was welcomed at the Board’s July 10 meeting, during which Chair Cruz was re-elected as Chair for a one-year term.
“We are so appreciative that Commissioner Hagins has joined the board and that Chair Cruz agreed to serve another term,” said Prosper Portland Executive Director Kimberly Branam. “The combination of experience, values, and perspectives on our five-person Board will ensure Prosper Portland can deliver projects and initiatives that serve the city’s residents and businesses during this critical time.”
“Prosper Portland’s mission to build an equitable economy resonates deeply with my professional ethos and personal values. I believe that by collaborating on the board of Prosper Portland, we can foster a more inclusive economic environment where both businesses and workers flourish. My goal is to bridge gaps between diverse communities and the economic opportunities that Prosper Portland can facilitate, ensuring that our growth is not just robust, but also broadly shared. Through strategic partnerships and targeted programs, we can transform Portland into a model city where equity and economic prosperity are realities for everyone.”
“The work the agency is leading is essential to the overall health of the city and now, as momentum around Portland’s recovery builds, I am honored to continue my service on the Prosper Portland Board. I’m also pleased Commissioner Hagins has joined the Board and look forward to working with her, my other fellow commissioners, and the excellent team at Prosper Portland.”
