Staff Directory
Learn more about our Board of Commissioners, Directors, and our dedicated staff.
Our Equity Statement
We acknowledge our past as we move forward to create economic opportunity and prosperity for all communities. We make racial equity the foundation of our community and economic development work. We hold ourselves accountable to Portland’s communities of color and others our work has negatively impacted. While racial equity is the primary lens to focus our efforts, we understand the connection between racism and other forms of bias that lead to oppression.
Within our workplace and working with our partners, we embrace values of authentic inclusion, transparency, and collaboration.
We work toward nothing less than an anti-racist Portland that welcomes and serves all communities and perspectives. We encourage our partners to do the same.
Departments
- Everyone
- Board of Commissioners
- Development & Investment
- Directors
- Economic Development
- Equity, Governance & Communications
- Executive
- Finance & Business Operations
- Human Resources & Workforce Development
- Legal
- Adam LaneChief Financial OfficerAdam LaneChief Financial Officer
- Alisha Moreland-CapuiaCommissionerAlisha Moreland-CapuiaCommissioner
Dr. Alisha Moreland-Capuia, MD, is the co-founder of The Capuia Foundation (a nonprofit established to improve access to healthcare, education and agriculture in the African nation of Angola), executive director of the Avel Gordly Center for Healing, and assistant professor of Public Psychiatry at OHSU. She earned a B.S. from Stanford University and an M.D. from The George Washington University and completed four years of training in psychiatry and a fellowship in addiction medicine, both at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).
She holds several distinct honors, among them being the first African-American native Oregonian to become a licensed and board-certified psychiatrist, and a Portland Business Journal 2016 ’40 Under 40′ honoree.
Frequently tapped to advise on matters of medicine, public health and education, she serves on several boards to include: Oregon Historical Society, I Have a Dream Oregon, recent appointee to the Oregon Health Policy Board Healthcare Workforce Subcommittee, former appointee to the Community Oversight Advisory Board (COAB) which is a board that oversees the Department of Justice’s mandated reform for the Portland Police Bureau, and a former appointee to the Governor’s Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs.
An acclaimed leader and speaker, she lists her greatest accomplishment as that of being a wife and mother.
Dr. Capuia was appointed to the Prosper Portland Board of Commissioners on July 1, 2016. - Alison KeanGeneral CounselAlison KeanGeneral Counsel
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work on the community economic development team. I’m focused on supporting inclusive entrepreneurship through the oversight of Mercatus, an online storytelling platform and directory for entrepreneurs of color, and the coordination of a network of small business technical assistance providers, the Inclusive Business Resource Network.
What do you like most about your job?
I like collaborating with the diversity of communities in Portland and the organizations that work to serve them.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means acknowledging the impacts of oppressive and racist systems and structures and working towards a community that provides the resources and opportunities that all people need to thrive and prosper.- Amy EdwardsAsset & Investment ManagerAmy EdwardsAsset & Investment Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I manage Prosper Portland’s loan portfolio as well as the physical assets currently owned by the agency.
What do you like most about your job?
I am grateful to be able to use my skills and experience to further the mission of Prosper Portland.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means that what makes us all unique and special is considered an asset to an organization, community, or country, rather than a liability. - Amy Fleck-RoseteProject ManagerAmy Fleck-RoseteProject Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am a Project Manager on our Entrepreneurship and Community Economic Development team. I work with our Neighborhood Prosperity Initiative Districts, providing technical assistance and grants to support community-led projects, events and programs.
What do you like most about your job?
I like collaborating with neighborhood community groups and leaders to create solutions for issues that are impacting their neighborhoods. I feel so fortunate to be a part of an amazing network of folks that are making a difference for all Portlanders.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means changing systems that leave certain populations isolated, marginalized, and without access to important resources. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Major Projects department, where I am responsible for managing redevelopment projects throughout the Central City and managing partnerships within the Oregon Convention Center URA.
What do you like most about your job?
I like being a part of a place’s story at this point in its existence and creating sustainability strategies to ensure that whatever is built contributes positively to the surrounding environment.
What does equity mean to you?
It is a commitment to improving the livability of our community for all residents and to strengthening its viability for all who will live here in the future.- Andrea GallProject Coordinator – Business Development & International AffairsAndrea GallProject Coordinator – Business Development & International Affairs
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am a member of the Business and Industry Team in the Economic Development department focusing on business development and international affairs, supporting projects and strategies that attract family-wage jobs to the city.
What do you like most about your job?
I love working towards the aspiration that Portland can become one of the most globally competitive, equitable, and healthy cities in the world.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means removing systemic barriers to allow for equal access to opportunities and holding ourselves accountable to communities that have been negatively impacted by these barriers. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in Economic Development, where I broker agreements and partnerships between business and community to meet the needs of employees and residents. I manage the Enterprise Zone program, I serve as project manager on large recruitments and brownfield redevelopment initiatives, and I manage funds to create workforce and small business development programming.
What do you like most about your job?
The work we do matters. Our tools help businesses to grow and create jobs and provide tangible benefits for our residents most in need. Wages increase. Businesses make more sales and are more productive. Our work is at the heart of many of those transactions.
What does equity mean to you?
Our organization has equity in assets that are tangible (property) and intangible (time, relationships, leverage, etc.). Equity is seeking ways to share publicly owned assets (tangible and intangible) to benefit residents who have fewer assets.- Anne Crispino-TaylorSenior Administrative CoordinatorAnne Crispino-TaylorSenior Administrative Coordinator
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I provide administrative support to the Development and Investment Team.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy working with a team of individuals who are passionate and innovative about the work they do to make Portland desirable.
What does equity mean to you?
I believe, as a public servant, it is my job to ensure all members of our community have access to reliable public facilities, resources and economic advances. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Communications & Involvement department, where I’m responsible for researching and writing stories for our publications and media outreach, website, and social media and helping my colleagues tell their own stories about our work.
What do you like most about your job?
I like telling a good story – and we have many of them! I believe in the power of the written word, I enjoy editing material to be direct and compelling and working with others to improve their own communications skills.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means treating people with fairness, dignity, and respect, and recognizing that our differences (or similarities) bring us together as members of the human race.- Bernie KeroskyProject ManagerBernie KeroskyProject Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I assist businesses and property owners of Portland to access Prosper Portland and external resources in order to facilitate business and property development.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy assisting people and getting to know their stories.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means to me that all people in our society are treated with dignity and respect and have access to the tools they need in order to be successful. - Bim KrumhanslReal Estate Portfolio AnalystBim KrumhanslReal Estate Portfolio Analyst
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Development & Investment department, where I am responsible for analyzing how our real estate can best be positioned to achieve Prosper Portland's goals.
What does equity mean to you?
Addressing the causes of inequality and racism in our society, and striving to provide all people with equal opportunity to fulfill their needs and advance their well-being.
- Breanna RodriquezSpecial Project/Program SpecialistBreanna RodriquezSpecial Project/Program Specialist
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am the first point of contact for film productions working within the city of Portland. I advocate on their behalf and provide them with the resources they need to work effectively and efficiently.
What do you like most about your job?
I like contributing to the way the world sees Portland through our movies, television and media.
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity work is the manifestation of a person’s faith and an acknowledgment of our human frailty. It is an attempt at a communal restoration. Equity is a recognition that we all want the same things, and the only way to help yourself is to help others. It is the chance to bring everyone into a vision of redemption here on earth.What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am an underwriter with Prosper Portland for economic and community development loan programs including financing requests for business and commercial real estate development projects.
What do you like most about your job?
I like working with entrepreneurs to secure financial resources for various projects and contributing to the economic development of the city.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity is leveling the playing field and removing barriers so that underserved and historically disadvantaged communities can access resources and build vibrant neighborhoods.
- Cary SiemersIT Analyst IVCary SiemersIT Analyst IV
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Information Technologies group and I’m responsible for administering our cloud-based tools.
What do you like most about your job?
I can show my family the good work that is done by us around Portland.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means that all people, regardless of skin color, gender, or age are treated the same. - Chan SaeLeeAccountant IIIChan SaeLeeAccountant III
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Finance & Business Operations department, where I'm responsible for Loan/Grant Accounting, Real Estate Accounting and backup for other Finance and Business Operations.
What do you like most about your job?
I like the problem solving and implementation aspect of my role here, as well as knowing that I'm using my skills to benefit my city and community.
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity means everyone having the same advantages and opportunities. Not being held back by race, religion, gender or economic circumstances outside of their control.
- Christine VelasquezProject ManagerChristine VelasquezProject Manager
- Colin PolkEnvironmental CoordinatorColin PolkEnvironmental Coordinator
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I manage environmental investigation and remediation activities for our projects and engage with state and federal regulatory agencies to facilitate the redevelopment of contaminated properties.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy working with teams of talented professionals to solve complex environmental challenges on large-scale projects that ultimately result in transforming blighted properties into viable and beneficial real estate.
What does equity mean to you?
An equitable city is one in which all can participate and prosper. - Court MorseEquity and Inclusion Program ManagerCourt MorseEquity and Inclusion Program Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As part of the Equity, Governance and Communications Department, my position provides leadership, direction and guidance for equity, diversity, and inclusion-based internal and external strategies and programs.
What do you like most about your job?
I like that my role is centered on creating concrete positive impacts and restorative justice for underserved communities, particularly communities of color.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means ensuring that we dismantle the ways in which racism and other forms of oppression operate to put communities of color and other underrepresented populations at a disadvantage. It means adapting our approach with the tools and insight to lift up communities that have been harmed. All people deserve to thrive in Portland.
- Damian CrowderProject ManagerDamian CrowderProject Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am the District Liaison for Alberta Main Street, The St. Johns Center for Opportunity, and Historic Parkrose.
What do you like most about your job?
I love the variety of projects I work on, and meeting residents in my districts.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity is important to me because I want to contribute to the growth of our city and help all Portlanders fulfill their definition of a happy and successful life. - Dan SperoBusiness Operations ManagerDan SperoBusiness Operations Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As Professional Services Manager, I oversee Prosper Portland’s procurement, risk, and records management functions.
What do you like most about your job?
The spirit of creativity and innovation, incredible staff, and knowing my contributions make Portland a better place to live, work, and play are the most satisfying parts of my jobs.
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity means meaningful access to Prosper Portland’s resources whether in the form of contracts, jobs, loans, grants, and other opportunities. It means recognizing how historic inequity privileged some at the expense of others. Equity means having the courage to challenge business as usual to make sure everyone has a fair shot. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Economic Development Department, where I manage the Neighborhood Prosperity Initiative Program and work with partners to deliver community driven economic development with a focus on equity. The three districts that I support are Our 42nd Avenue, Cully Blvd Alliance and the Rosewood Initiative.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy working directly with community partners to create opportunities and build wealth and stability for all community members. It is a joy to work with so many passionate and creative people to find solutions that alleviate the unique challenges that their neighborhood is facing.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity occurs when everyone has access to resources and the opportunity to reach their goals, regardless of factors that people cannot affect.- Debbie HansenAdministrative SpecialistDebbie HansenAdministrative Specialist
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As an administrative specialist, I support Prosper Portland in a variety of ways such as assisting departments with file archiving requests, tracking use of our car share programs, helping purchasing and accounting with their day-to-day work, and routinely saving the day!
What do you like most about your job?
My job allows me to work on a variety of projects with people throughout the organization.
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity means a state of equality and fairness such that everyone shares the same rights, protections, and freedoms. - Elise HendricksonConstruction Services CoordinatorElise HendricksonConstruction Services Coordinator
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Asset and Management Department where I manage construction projects on agency-owned properties.
What do you like most about your job?
No two days are ever the same.
What does equity mean to you?
“Genuine equality means not treating everyone the same, but attending equally to everyone’s different needs.” ― Terry Eagleton - Ember BreckenridgeProject Manager IIEmber BreckenridgeProject Manager II
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Asset & Investment Department, where I am responsible for the management and maintenance of Prosper Portland’s facilities and properties.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy being able to engage with various community partners and contractors in the use and beautification of the properties, as well as the hands-on aspect of property management and maintenance.
What does equity mean to you?
The idea that all people have access to programs, facilities, places, and spaces that make their lives and communities great. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Development and Investment department where I’m responsible for guiding redevelopment projects from an idea to completion always with an eye towards making Portland more walkable, livable, and equitable.
What do you like most about your job?
I like contributing to building a great city, which takes patience and lots of people with different talents. I enjoy working with partners and teams to solve complex problems and then seeing people living, working, and playing in the places we create.
What does equity mean to you?
Acknowledging Portland’s racist past and disrupting the patterns that still result in inequitable outcomes today.- Faythe AikenReporting, Learning, and Evaluation Project ManagerFaythe AikenReporting, Learning, and Evaluation Project Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Equity, Governance & Communications team, where I'm responsible for the development of organizational reporting on compliance and outcomes.
What do you like most about your job?
I like supporting our project teams to think critically about how to use data to improve processes in their work aimed at creating a more equitable Portland.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity work involves the dismantling of structural and systemic barriers that benefit some groups at the expense of others. An equitable society is one where all have the right to work, play, and love as they choose.
- Francesca GambettiCommissionerFrancesca GambettiCommissionerFrancesca Gambetti is Partner/Project Manager for Shiels Obletz Johnsen, Inc. Since joining SOJ in 1998, Francesca has been involved in a variety of nonprofit, public and private projects including civic facilities, housing, school, transportation, and mixed‐use development, with a focus on getting projects from concept through construction. She is adept at conducting feasibility analyses, building detailed project budgets, facilitating site selection processes, structuring and obtaining financing, obtaining public approvals, creating project schedules, assembling and managing project teams, and managing all aspects of the design and construction process.
Francesca has served on an array of local Boards and is currently a Volunteer with the Bridger School and the co-founder of Scrubby Notebooks. She holds a Masters of City Planning, U.C. Berkeley, 1998 and a B.A. from Yale University, 1994. She was appointed to the Prosper Portland Board of Commissioners on August 9, 2017. - Francis ThurmanBudget AnalystFrancis ThurmanBudget Analyst
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am a Budget Analyst in the Financial Planning department. In my role at Prosper Portland, I help ensure that spending in the agency is in accordance with Oregon Budget law.
What do you like most about your job?
I like to promote fiscal responsibility, and operational efficiency through budgets which apply realistic, and achievable objectives.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity to me means equality of opportunity for all people, and that each individual should be judged, first and foremost, according to his/her own merits. - Frederick Davis-BrownLegal AssistantFrederick Davis-BrownLegal Assistant
- Gina BixbyAccountantGina BixbyAccountant
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Finance and Business Operations Department, in the Loan/Grants area performing analyses, reconciliations and financial reports.
What do you like most about your job?
Finance is like a continually fluctuating puzzle and it’s gratifying when you get all the pieces pulled together; I enjoy those challenges paired with the routines and financial cycles.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity is more than just a lack of barriers to equal treatment under the law. It’s a philosophy that embraces, celebrates and sees the value in all forms of diversity. Equity is the catalytic wave created by society to foster the highest potential of each individual. - Gustavo J. Cruz Jr.Commission ChairGustavo J. Cruz Jr.Commission Chair
Cruz is of counsel at the law firm Farleigh Wada Witt with a practice in commercial finance, corporate finance and general business matters. His background includes service as a commercial lender and credit approval officer at a financial institution, and as in-house counsel with U.S. Bank in the Special Assets Group. He was born in Portland and has been active on several nonprofit boards, including the Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, where he currently serves as board chair, and the Northwest District Association. Cruz played rugby in college and for a men’s club team and enjoys reunions with his rugby friends. He also enjoys spending time with his son, volunteering in his community, reading, and University of Oregon football. He is a graduate of the University of Oregon and Lewis and Clark Law School.
Cruz was appointed to the Prosper Portland Board of Commissioners on July 1, 2015. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I’m in the Economic Development department working with companies in the software industry to advance workplace inclusion and workforce diversity in order to grow the industry while broadening prosperity.
What do you like most about your job?
I love making a difference in the city by having a direct impact on businesses and people.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity is about creating an economy, community and city where everyone feels they belong. A better sense of belonging leads to more engaged citizens, better workplace experiences and economic success, and a more prosperous community.- Joana FilgueirasProject Manager IJoana FilgueirasProject Manager I
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
Project management for the industrial areas.
What do you like most about your job?
The possibilities of making a difference in the community.
What does equity mean to you?
Giving people the opportunities and tools necessary for them to be their best selves.
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in public relations, community outreach and engagement.
What do you like most about your job?
I love telling stories about our partners’ businesses, organizations, and communities.
What does equity mean to you?
I think equity is when ALL members of a community have constant access to the decision-making process and are able to prosper from the outcomes.
“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community… Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own.” ― César E. ChávezWhat do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am an attorney providing a variety of legal services in support of Prosper Portland's programs and policies. My areas of focus include real estate development, finance (such as grants and secured lending), and general business law.
What do you like most about your job?
It's great to work in a place with committed, creative people dedicated to a common goal of improving Portland's economic and social fabric.
What does equity mean to you?
The recognition that all people have inherent dignity and worth.
- Justin DouglasManager, Governance, Learning & OutcomesJustin DouglasManager, Governance, Learning & Outcomes
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
My work focuses on delivering on Prosper Portland’s 2015-2020 Strategic Plan, through coordinating the flow of information to the Board of Commissioners, facilitating Leadership Team alignment, delivering on the Long Term Business Plan, and ensuring that we consistently report on the outcomes of our work.
What do you like most about your job?
It is an honor and a privilege to be able to say that I work on behalf of the good citizens of Portland.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity is my commitment to ensuring that all Portlanders have access and opportunities to a prosperous, happy, fulfilling life. - Karen HarrisReal Estate & Lending Closer / ParalegalKaren HarrisReal Estate & Lending Closer / Paralegal
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am a paralegal in the legal department. Along with supporting our General and Assistant Counsels, I work closely with multiple departments, facilitating the closing of real estate and financial transactions.
What do you like most about your job?
It is a pleasure working with so many talented individuals all focused on one goal…making Portland a healthy, thriving and diverse city where all residents are treated equally and encouraged to fully realize their aspirations.
What does equity mean to you?
I believe every member of humanity has a contribution to make to the community. No one should be judged or disadvantaged by their race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, national origin, veteran status, social economic class or religion. Working together, we can foster collaborative partnerships, engage cultural differences, promote dialogue and provide community spaces, making Portland a better city for present and future generations. - Karl DinkelspielDevelopment ManagerKarl DinkelspielDevelopment Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I manage a portfolio of programs that support underrepresented founders of tech and consumer product companies. I co-manage the Small Business Technical Assistance Partnership (SBTAP), an inclusive learning community of organizations dedicated to delivering on inclusive outcomes for supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses, particularly people of color, women and other underrepresented minorities.
What do you like most about your job?
I am very fortunate to get to work with talented and brilliant founders overcoming significant obstacles to build amazing companies. I am humbled and inspired by those founders every day. I am also very thankful for the dedicated colleagues I get to work within and external to Prosper Portland. I feel like we are building a new kind of future for Portland together and it is incredibly meaningful work.
What does equity mean to you?
Whether we like it or not, we have all been patterned in this society with notions of privilege and oppression based on race, ethnicity, gender or ability. To me, equity means repatterning ourselves to recognize & change those patterns so that we can see beyond the veil of the harmful patterns we’ve been taught and recognize the value and importance of every human being.What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in Prosper Portland’s loan department and I’m responsible for underwriting loan requests and working with borrowers in need of business or commercial real estate financing.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy learning about my clients’ businesses and working with them to secure financing that will meet their needs, whether those funds come from Prosper Portland or another lender.
What does equity mean to you?
Sadly, many people face systemic obstacles that hinder them from enjoying the full spectrum of basic human rights. Any discrimination against people, whether due to race, gender, sexual orientation or other reasons, is simply wrong. To me, equity is the recognition of these systemic obstacles, followed by their removal, so all people can reach their full potential.- Kevin HoppesIT Analyst IVKevin HoppesIT Analyst IV
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I’m the IT system administrator for the agency’s ERP and ECM software systems.
What do you like most about your job?
I get the opportunity to learn new things about information technology every day, although I’m also forgetting 5 other things…all in all, it’s still interesting. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As the Metals and Machinery cluster liaison, my primary responsibilities involve helping manufacturers with workforce development; identifying resources for R&D/innovation; implementing lean/efficiency improvement; increasing sales; supporting makers and manufacturing startups; and identifying issues impacting manufacturers and engaging agencies and policymakers to find solutions.
What do you like most about your job?
I find working on solutions surrounding urban industrial conflicts with internal and external partners to be very gratifying. We have an abundance of homegrown talent existing in Portland, but we are also experiencing a large influx of new talent coming to our city not only in pursuit of employment opportunities, but also to participate in our innovation economy as entrepreneurs and makers. Let’s work together to take full advantage of this opportunity.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity to me means not only hiring, promoting and supporting individuals and businesses based on their individual merits and capabilities, but also nurturing those that have been historically disadvantaged so that they can reach new heights.Ms. Kimberly Branam, Executive Director for Prosper Portland, is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the city’s economic development and urban renewal agency.
In her previous position as Deputy Director, Ms. Branam oversaw the delivery of programs and initiatives within the Central City, Neighborhood and Business & Industry Divisions to further the agency’s strategic objectives. Ms. Branam came to Prosper Portland after spending four years leading Mayor Sam Adams’ economic development agenda, first as then-Commissioner Adams’ Senior Policy Director for Economic Development & Workforce Development and then as Director of Economic Development in the Mayor’s Office. In this latter role, Ms. Branam oversaw the development, adoption and implementation of the City’s first economic development strategy in 15 years on the Mayor’s behalf.
Prior to working for Mayor Adams, Ms. Branam earned a Master’s in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School. While at Harvard, she consulted to the US Treasury on the strengthening of targeted public/private partnerships and spent time working in Congressman Earl Blumenauer’s office. Before attending Harvard, Ms. Branam worked for the Peace Corps in Burkina Faso, West Africa. Her work focused on education and community development in a rural village. After the Peace Corps, Ms. Branam remained in West Africa to serve as a community development project manager for Catholic Relief Services. Ms. Branam is a third generation Portlander, and a graduate of Grant High School and Colby College in Maine.
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I’m responsible for leading our agency and ensuring we achieve our mission of creating economic growth and opportunity in Portland.
What do you like most about your job?
I love that the work we do supports businesses to create new opportunities, empowers people to change their lives, and helps communities to realize their aspirations across the city I grew up in and love.
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity means many things. From a leadership perspective, it means helping transform Prosper Portland into an anti-racist organization. It means wrestling daily with the relative ease of being a white woman guiding our work, and the discomfort of being a leader without many of the equity-focused answers. It means listening, reading, reflecting and having unusually honest conversations. And, in the most personal way, it means beginning to see our city and nation through the eyes of my brown skin children. It’s complicated and it’s essential.- Laura AlsenasSenior Business Finance OfficerLaura AlsenasSenior Business Finance Officer
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I make loans to businesses and real estate development projects that align with Prosper Portland’s economic development strategies.
What do you like most about your job?
I like working with entrepreneurs and helping them realize their business goals or development projects through the funding Prosper Portland can provide.
What does equity mean to you?
I believe social equity means more than just equal access to opportunities and resources; it’s more about a society that has equal outcomes in terms of health, wealth, education, attainment and happiness for all races, genders, sexual orientations, abilities or any other innate attributes. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Equity, Governance and Communications department where I’m responsible for all the administrative duties for the department.
What do you like most about your job?
I love being able to look around the city at the projects we’ve done and know we had something to do with making the city a little better.
What does equity mean to you?
“The true measure of our success will be the number of people touched and transformed by our success.” ― Angela Ahrendts- Lisa AbuafDirector of Development & InvestmentLisa AbuafDirector of Development & Investment
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Development & Investment Department, where I’m responsible for managing a team of staff that delivers on the priorities of our communities and partners through neighborhood based development and financial investments.
What do you like most about your job?
I like working with Portland’s residents and businesses to help realize public investments that support their goals for the future of our city.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity means being intentional about how our projects, programs, and investments have a positive social impact within the communities that they are made and providing those communities with fair access to engagement and opportunities for growth. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Communications & Involvement department, where I’m responsible for the design of our publications, development of our website, and communications through our social media channels.
What do you like most about your job?
I like using technology to engage with the public about our projects and programs that make our city a better place to live.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means that everyone in our community has equal opportunities, resources, access and rights, and that all of our voices are heard.- Mark PadgettIT Analyst IIIMark PadgettIT Analyst III
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in IT on the helpdesk.
What do you like most about your job?
We are a small shop so I have many hats I wear to help keep the lights on.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means all receive a fair shake when it comes to access to resources and treatment under the law. Mayra Arreola leads the development, communication, oversight, analysis, reporting and refinements of cross-functional strategies, policies and initiatives to foster shared prosperity and social equity. She manages a team of senior managers, professional staff and consultants to execute a comprehensive communication approach, ensure transparent and inclusive community engagement practices, develop and guide strategic plans, and manage the Prosper Portland Board process. Previous to her role at Prosper Portland, Mayra worked at United Way of the Columbia-Willamette (UWCW) as Director of Community Collaborations and Investment. While at UWCW, she focused on making community impact a reality by managing investments, building critical relationships, understanding community needs and opportunities, fostering collaborations across sectors and giving United Way a visible presence across the four-county region.
Mayra also worked in rural communities across the state of Oregon with Rural Development Initiatives (RDI), where she focused on community building through leadership and small business development. Prior to her work at RDI, Mayra worked at the Oregon Association of Minority Entrepreneurs (OAME) as Director of Programs and Marketing.
Mayra holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Portland State University. She is Vice President of the Women’s Foundation of Oregon Board of Directors and an Advisory Board Member with OAME.
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I lead the Equity, Governance and Communications Department and work with an amazing group of people. Primarily, we develop equitable strategies that increase our internal and external capacity to better serve and support underserved communities. Also, my department focuses on designing policies and procedures that support our social equity goals, while monitoring and tracking our progress. Last but not least, we also get to tell our story, showcase the agency’s economic impact and ensure authentic community engagement.
What do you like most about your job?
I love the opportunity to showcase the human side of the agency, what we are all about, our values and beliefs and to always put social equity at the front and center of all of our efforts.
What does equity mean to you?
For me equity is when your history, your culture and life experiences are seen as an asset and your voice is acknowledged and valued. It means that systems are designed so everyone is able to access opportunities and resources. It means being able to bring your full self anywhere you go.- Melanie RundSenior Administrative CoordinatorMelanie RundSenior Administrative Coordinator
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I provide administrative support to the Business & Industry Team within the Economic Development Department of the agency.
What do you like most about your job?
The people! The passion and support of everyone in this agency is amazing. Staff here are truly invested in making Portland a great city with equal opportunities for all – a place where we all want to live and thrive. I’ve met some of my best friends at this agency.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity means that gender, age, sexual orientation, origin, class, income or property, language, religion, convictions, opinions, health or disability do not result in unequal treatment under the law and will not reduce opportunities based on any of those criteria. - Melissa CordialHuman ResourcesMelissa CordialHuman Resources
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the accounting department where my responsibilities include financial reporting and account reconciliations.
What do you like most about your job?
I love working with people to help them understand the financial dynamics of what is going on with projects, programs, and for the agency as a whole.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity to me means fairness. The recognition that all people have the inherent dignity of being human. True equity has the potential benefit of peace, freedom and justice for all.- Michelle PlambeckProject Manager, Policy & Government AffairsMichelle PlambeckProject Manager, Policy & Government Affairs
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work on the Governance, Learning & Outcomes team where I help coordinate information to the Board of Commissioners, the Budget Advisory Committee, City Council, and the Office of Government Relations.
What do you like most about your job?
I like effectively communicating to increase public accessibility to information and to inform decision-making.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means we acknowledge and inclusively value our histories, experiences, and cultures, and that everyone should have access to systems and opportunities to prosper and thrive.
- MinNefer "Mjayi" MernahkemProject Manager IMinNefer "Mjayi" MernahkemProject Manager I
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Development & Investment department, where I am responsible for managing redevelopment projects throughout the great city of Portland.What do you like most about your job?
I like being a part of a place that allows me to help create and bring projects to life that benefit Portland’s people & communities.What does equity mean to you?
It means that all people – no matter the color of their skin, age, income level or ability – have access to programs, services, facilities, places and spaces that make their lives and communities better and greater. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As a member of the Entrepreneurship and Community Economic Development Team, I help small businesses thrive.
What do you like most about your job?
I like being a connector and learning about new resources I can share with my community of entrepreneurs and business advisors.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means that resources are accessible to everyone, and funders are dedicated to ensuring that everyone is aware of these opportunities, especially those who are underserved.What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I provide support to the Inclusive Business Resource Network, measuring outcomes for entrepreneurs and telling our story through the numbers.
What do you like most about your job?
I like that I’m able to use data to facilitate change and help improve programming, which ultimately benefits entrepreneurs.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity to me means making services and opportunities not only available but accessible, so that all individuals are able to access the support they need to thrive.
- Nixie StarkSr. Project/ Program SpecialistNixie StarkSr. Project/ Program Specialist
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I’m on the Community Economic Development team and my job is to help businesses get what they need to be more successful, and to help administer the Prosperity Investment Program (PIP) grant.
What do you like most about your job?
I like working with small businesses to connect them to the resources they need – either here at Prosper Portland, or through our partners – in order to be more successful. I also love distributing grant money to businesses to improve their properties!
What does equity mean to you?
Social equality is essential to the wellness and prosperity of every human being, for no one can truly prosper on the backs of others. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said “If one is oppressed, all are oppressed.” What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I support the Executive Director of Prosper Portland and the agency’s Commissioners. I also maintain relationships with internal and external contacts and support the Prosper Portland Board of Commissioner Meetings.
What do you like most about your job?
I like connecting with internal staff and external stakeholders to help facilitate the outcomes they are seeking.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means recognizing that we are all living, breathing, flesh, bones, soul and spirit. We are no different from one another despite our outward appearance, a different belief system or any other item that may be different from “you.”- Pam JohnsonProject CoordinatorPam JohnsonProject Coordinator
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Community Economic Development department, where I manage projects for Prosperity Investment Program (PIP) and Community Livability grants recipients.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy collaborating with community members, contractors, architects, engineers, and Bureau of Development Services staff to manage successful projects for grant recipients and develop relationships to problem-solve and find solutions. I’m proud to be a part of our community economic development team, providing vital services to the city of Portland.
What does equity mean to you?
To me it means a commitment to diversity, which honors a mix of voices that leads to better discussions, decisions, and outcomes for everyone. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Economic Development department and serve as the clean technology cluster liaison to support business development activities.
What do you like most about your job?
I like supporting our businesses who are creating employment opportunities for our residents and who are creating and deploying clean technologies that protect our environment.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity is the path to innovation and shared prosperity. Our job is to increase economic opportunities for low-income populations and people of color.What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I’m the data guy for our financial applications. It’s my job to manage that data and make sure it’s available at all times and kept safe and secure. And whenever someone needs an adhoc query or report on that data, I’m one of the go-to people to make it happen.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy developing technical solutions to provide employees with information to help facilitate better decision making.
What does equity mean to you?
As Portland continues to grow at an exponential rate it’s important to foster social equity so that all our citizenry has the opportunity to participate and benefit from a prosperous Portland.What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am part of the Information Technology (IT) Team, where my responsibilities include the translation of business and operational requirements into designs and specifications for workable IT solutions that will help meet our agency’s business goals.
What do you like most about your job?
What I love about this job is knowing that my work contributes to making our city a great place to live and work.
What does equity mean to you?
Creating conditions and providing resources that give everyone the opportunity to participate and work at fulfilling their aspirations for a better life.- Peter PlattCommissionerPeter PlattCommissioner
Peter Platt is the founder and owner of Andina Restaurant, an award-winning, fine-dining restaurant introducing Peruvian cuisine to the Northwest. Since its opening in 2003, Andina has been consistently recognized as one of the busiest and best restaurants in Portland and the region, with a portion of revenues dedicated to supporting international development work in Peru.
Before opening Andina, Peter worked on new project development in Peru for Mercy Corps. Platt is a board member of the Oregon Food Bank and Hacienda CDC. He holds an MBA from Yale School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from Harvard University. He currently serves as the President of La Costa Verde, LLC – the holding company for Andina. He was appointed to the Prosper Portland Board of Commissioners on August 9, 2017. - Robert SmithProject Manager, GIS & OutcomesRobert SmithProject Manager, GIS & Outcomes
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work on the Governance, Learning and Outcomes team where I maintain our geographic information system, perform mapping and other place-based research, and assist in the development and tracking of performance measures for the agency.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy getting to work with such a talented and motivated group of people who are all committed to having a positive impact on our local economy, neighborhoods, and the communities that we serve.
What does equity mean to you?
The undoing of years of institutional influence that has resulted in a social construct which inhibits certain groups of people from accessing, participating in, and benefitting from opportunities that should - Roger GonzalezProject Manager, Policy & Government AffairsRoger GonzalezProject Manager, Policy & Government Affairs
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Governance, Learning and Outcomes team where I am responsible for facilitating the community benefits agreement associated with the Broadway Corridor project. This project will inform agency-wide delivery of public benefits.
What do you like most about your job?
I like to help ensure that our investments and development in the city create access to opportunities for all of our residents. I work alongside dedicated public servants who work hard to create a more equitable community.
What does equity mean to you?
Creating opportunities and access for communities who have been locked out through institutional, systemic, and societal marginalization and oppression by disrupting and dismantling those processes.
- Sarah HarpoleProject ManagerSarah HarpoleProject Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Development and Investment department, where I coordinate the community engagement and planning activities for the Broadway Corridor, including the U.S. Post Office parcel and Portland’s Union Station. I also partner with the Old Town/Chinatown community to implement the Old Town/Chinatown Five-Year Action Plan, which was endorsed by City Council in August 2014.
What do you like most about your job?
Collaborating with community members and other partners to envision and implement projects that have a long term impact on the vibrancy and health of our city.
What does equity mean to you?
“Genuine equality means not treating everyone the same, but attending equally to everyone’s different needs.” ― Terry Eagleton - Sean MurrayDirector of Human ResourcesSean MurrayDirector of Human Resources
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Human Resources department where we’re responsible for supporting the HR needs (i.e., recruiting, class/comp, performance management, training and labor relations) for the agency.
What do you like most about your job?
What I like most about my job is working with staff to support the mission of the agency. It’s a fun and healthy work environment!
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity means differentiating resources in hopes of getting equitable outcomes. “If first you don’t succeed, try, try, again. - Selena Colson CarrollHR ConsultantSelena Colson CarrollHR Consultant
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As the HR Consultant for Prosper Portland, I provide a wide variety of human resources services across the agency. If you have questions regarding recruitments, job classifications, employee development, etc., I am always available.
What do you like most about your job?
I love and truly care about people. Therefore, being able to help both internal and external clients is a pleasure rather than a job.
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity is key to succeed not only professionally, but also personally. Everyone should always be treated equally as we all deserve a chance! - Sharon SmithSenior Administrative CoordinatorSharon SmithSenior Administrative Coordinator
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I support the Development team administratively.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means being aware that everyone matters and all people deserve equal and fair footing in everything. It means being proactive. It means thinking outside the box. It means standing up for others. It means taking risks.
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I lead the Communications & Involvement department at Prosper Portland. We manage all internal and external communications on behalf of the agency. That include news releases, the website, social media, video production, and print materials.
What do you like most about your job?
I truly appreciate the opportunity to work with a dynamic group of very smart people – all of whom are committed to doing what they can on behalf of Portlanders to make this city a better place. I especially enjoy working with the Public Affairs team members who inspire, teach and tolerate me each day.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity is an essential principle that, to me, means all individuals are treated with respect and dignity regardless of color, race, religion, age, sexual orientation, physical ability, or income level. It means access to opportunities that will enable people to flourish, to feel safe and empowered to provide their own unique contributions to their families and communities. Focusing on equity allows us to learn about others, but more importantly, in enables us to learn about ourselves and to realize how powerful we actually are when it comes to making a positive difference.- Shea Flaherty BetinEconomic Development ManagerShea Flaherty BetinEconomic Development Manager
- Shelly HaackProject ManagerShelly HaackProject Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I’m a Business Opportunity Officer and responsible for the creation of new financing programs for Prosper Portland. Most recently I developed PropertyFit, a Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE) financing program operating in Multnomah County.
What do you like most about your job?
The opportunity to use my skills and experience to create new financing tools to impact complex community needs.
What does equity mean to you?
Equal access to opportunity, resources and political systems to grow individual and community capacity regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, religious affiliation or sexual orientation. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work to develop and manage programs, events, and projects related to the Athletic and Outdoor (A&O) industry. Our goal is to help companies create more good paying jobs and increase access to these jobs for Portlanders of all backgrounds. The industry includes apparel, footwear, bike, gear, accessories, and fashion companies of all sizes.
What do you like most about your job?
I like being able to help people connect. There are so many resources available to entrepreneurs and talent in this city, but a lot of times people don’t know where to look for help. I like being able to foster those connections and help people realize how supportive of a community we have in Portland and in the A&O industry.
What does equity mean to you?
Social equity means that society agrees to work together to help all its members have access to the resources they need to achieve their greatest potential no matter what their background.- Sue LewisProject CoordinatorSue LewisProject Coordinator
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
My primary function is to manage our Prosperity Investment Program providing grant funds for building improvements to help clients grow their businesses.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy being a part of helping small business owners transform their building and space to better serve their clients.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity is recognizing some people have more than others and providing services that bring up those who have less. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I support the Lending Team as we invest in businesses in our local community.
What do you like most about your job?
I like partnering with fabulous people to make a difference in our city.
What does equity mean to you?
Demonstrating respect for each person by providing equal access to opportunity.- Thalia MartinezCommunity Engagement Program ManagerThalia MartinezCommunity Engagement Program Manager
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As part of the Equity, Governance and Communications Department, my position supports the agency's community engagement efforts on projects and programs and advances initiatives for more inclusive engagement with Portlanders.
What do you like most about your job?
As part of the Communications & Involvement Team, I have the opportunity to engage with invested communities to help shape the growth of our city!
What does equity mean to you?
Equity is about acknowledging that life experiences are dynamic and varied. It is about adapting future forward approaches where our populations are better served through inclusive policies that deeply consider inequities and make bold corrections to ensure valuable resources are allocated accordingly.
- Thea MunchelProject Manager IThea MunchelProject Manager I
- Tony BarnesBudget OfficerTony BarnesBudget Officer
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I manage PDC’s financial planning activities which include budget development, budget and revenue management, and long-term financial planning.
What do you like most about your job?
I like helping to create the financial framework and tools used to implement projects and programs that are building a more equitable economy in Portland.
What does equity mean to you?
To me, equity begins with identifying and recognizing historical and ongoing inequities in our society and economy. I think it’s critical that we are focused on addressing and removing inequities by ensuring that all people, especially those who have been historically underserved, have access to tools, resources and opportunities necessary to prosper. What do you do at Prosper Portland?
As director I work with a committed team to develop and implement strategies towards achieving both growth and equitable economic outcomes that create access to livable wage jobs and small business vitality.
What do you like most about your job?
Broadening the narrative of “successful small businesses” to include resilient entrepreneurs of color in the city.
What does equity mean to you?
Do whatever is necessary for however long it takes to bring parity and health to all small businesses owners who call Portland home and fuel our economy.
“Go out on a limb, that is where the fruit is at” – AnonymousWhat do you do at Prosper Portland?
I work in the Economic Development department, where I’m responsible for managing the team that supports our four key traded sector clusters, international trade, the Enterprise Zone program, and the Portland Film Office.
What do you like most about your job?
My team members are some of the best people in the business, and it is a privilege to have the opportunity to work with them on reinventing our field to take a more equitable direction.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity means that each person realizes their innate potential and is provided the tools they need to overcome the barriers society inevitably puts up, particularly for individuals from marginalized communities. Importantly, equity doesn’t just rely on purity of intent – it needs to live in our heads as well through developing systems and mechanisms that drive equitable outcomes.- Viyada RuscignoAccounting TechnicianViyada RuscignoAccounting Technician
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I am currently working on reconciliations, vendor set-ups, facilitating payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.
What do you like most about your job?
I like the customer service dynamic of payroll. I also love what Prosper Portland represents and I am grateful to be a part of it all.
What does equity mean to you?
Equity is giving opportunity to those who normally wouldn't have the opportunity. Allowing all walks of life to be treated equally as human beings and not treated based on physical characteristics or features.
- Wendy WilcoxConstruction Services SpecialistWendy WilcoxConstruction Services Specialist
What do you do at Prosper Portland?
I coordinate small to mid size construction projects mostly on properties we own. I also serve as the Green Building Policy Compliance Coordinator.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy working on projects on a team where I know that our outcomes will provide healthy green buildings and will be purposely directed to provide equitable access to jobs, housing and small business opportinuties.
What does equity mean to you?
Equal access for all, everyone is welcomed, supported and valued at the proverbial table regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, class, age, religion, origin etc. - William MyersCommissionerWilliam MyersCommissionerMyers is executive secretary of the Columbia Pacific Building and Construction Trades Council, an umbrella organization of 25 unions that represent some 20,000 construction workers employed by more than 2,000 signatory contractors in Multnomah, Clackamas, Washington, and Columbia counties. He formerly worked for the Sheet Metal Workers Local 16. Among his community activities, he sits on the state’s Prevailing Wage Advisory Committee and the Metropolitan Alliance for Workforce Equity. Myers married the love of his life, Elizabeth Mazzara Myers, in September 2015.
Myers was appointed to the Prosper Portland Board of Commissioners on July 1, 2015. - Yvonne SmokerProject CoordinatorYvonne SmokerProject Coordinator