This event is sold out with the exception of awardees, sponsors and their guests.
A very special black-tie optional event honoring and lifting those LGBTQ+ business owners, individuals and allied businesses who have played a critical role in achieving our mission to support the LGBTQ+ entrepreneur and advance diversity, equity and inclusion. This upscale event will include a plated dinner and awards ceremony along with some special guests and entertainment.
Every award the chamber gives will highlight the significant investment and innovation of our friends and neighbors working to support an inclusive economy. Awardees will have made significant and demonstrated advances in strengthening and supporting our LGBTQ+ community and making our region a great place to work and live.
Deadline for Tickets November 23
Nearly 50 nominations were received and voted on by the 3RBA board and sponsors. The following are award recipients:
A. Nicolette Rafalski Spirit of Pride Award Cynthia Oliver, Executive Director 3RBA
Recognizes a family member, colleague, parent, or other individual who has provided unwavering support, encouragement and assistance to an LGBTQ+ entrepreneur or aspiring business owner. This individual is compassionate, caring and uncompromising in their support of the LGBTQ+ community.
B. PNC Bank Small Business of the Year Awards (Up to 10 employees) Sanctuary Pittsburgh, Lawrenceville
C. PNC Bank LGBTQ+ Large Business of the Year Award (over 10 employees) Dr. Stacey Lane, Central Outreach
These awards recognize LGBTQ+ owned businesses or individual business owners who demonstrate high commitment in the face of obstacles, have an entrepreneurial spirit, have achieved success and is a leader in their business.
D. UPMC LGBTQ+ Leader of the Year Award Kathleen Schneider, Schneider Law Firm
This award recognizes an LGBTQ+ owned business, LGBTQ+ business owner, organization or other individual who themselves are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and has achieved professional or community success and provided leadership in and to the LGBTQ+ community. This individual protects and empowers other LGBTQ+ individuals to achieve their dreams.
E. Essential Utilities Excellence in the Arts Award Joseph Hall, Executive Director Kelly Strayhorn Theatre
This award recognizes an LGBTQ+ or allied business, business owner, organization or individual who themselves are a creator or supports or employs LGBTQ+ artists and creatives. This candidate puts color inside our world.
F. Pittsburgh Penguin Foundation Inspiration Award Pittsburgh Council Person Erika Strassburger
This award is for any LGBTQ+ or allied individual, business or organization who is a role model and inspires others through their dedication, time and resources to overcome obstacles, and celebrates and advances the LGBTQ+ community throughout the region. This candidate works towards the greater collective and helps to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
G. 3RBA Chamber Member of the Year Award Freddie Bainbridge, Bainbridge Art.
An individual or business who is a member of 3RBA, demonstrates the values of 3RBA and makes significant contributions to chamber leadership, and success. This candidate exemplifies the mission of 3RBA.
H. Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney Excellence in Diversity Award Columbus Brooks, Human Resource Director, URA
This award is for any allied or LGBTQ+ business, corporation or organization who actively and innovatively demonstrates excellence in modeling, promoting and practicing DEI efforts, promotes inclusivity and diversity in their work policies and practices, supports MBE procurement, and takes action to hire or support LGBTQ+ and other marginalized employees.
I. URA Workforce Development Award Porter Wright Law LGBTQ+ Work Practice Group
This award is for any business, government body, or organization that actively develops, contributes and promotes economic development, job creation, stability and success for LGBTQ+ people and other marginalized people.
J. Highmark Health Ally Business Award Necromancer Brewery Pittsburgh
This award recognizes an Ally business or corporation that is not LGBTQ+ owned or managed and has actively, uniquely or innovatively demonstrated their commitment to diversity and inclusion in their workplace. This candidate has led in the DEI field and has a track record of supporting LGBTQ+ individuals to succeed.
K. Oliver Real Estate Outstanding Volunteer Award Ray Sidney-Smith, Owner w3 consulting
This award recognizes any individual, business or group who provides outstanding, above and beyond volunteer support to help 3RBA and/or other LGBTQ+ organizations.
L. Porter Wright Law Firm Emerging Young LGBTQ+ Leader Award Adrian Fierro, Branch Manager Key Bank
This award recognizes any LGBTQ+ professional 35 or younger who has achieved success in his/her/they/them profession, demonstrates and leads in the workplace or community to advance and support LGBTQ+ equity and inclusion
M. Kathleen Schneider Law Enterprising Woman Of the Year Kristy Trautmann, Executive Director FISA Foundation
Recognizes an LGBTQ+ individual person who identifies as female and distinguishes themself in the chamber, their business, or profession to advance marginalized women entrepreneurs, community members or employees.
L. EnterChange Group Gender Expansive Leadership Award Jules MaKenzie Hughes, Certified Family Recovery Specialist Central Outreach Owner, Metamorphasis LTD.
This award recognizes a Transgender or Gender Expansive business owner or local leader (inclusive of individuals who identify as transgender, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and/or gender expansive) who has distinguished themselves in the chamber, their business, community, or profession and has demonstrated leadership in practice and/or advocacy for gender and LGBTQ+ equity.
Menu
- Roasted Garlic Bisque with Pesto Crouton and Tomato Concasse
- Artisan Greens with Fresh Apples and Walnuts with a Cranberry Walnut Dressing, Raisin Walnut Crouton
- Petite Filet and Wild Mushroom Risotto Stuffed Chicken Breast Roasted Shallot Demi-Glace OR
- Crab crusted Tilapia. A Mild, White Fish, Topped with a Maryland Style Crab Stuffing, served with Whole Grain Mustard Beurre Blanc OR
- Grilled Marinated Portobello Mushroom Cannellini Bean Pate, Couscous, Grilled Vegetables and Red Bell Pepper Coulis
- Garlic & Herb Red Skin Mashed Potatoes
- Broccoli Crown with Lemon and Brown Butter
- Baked Chocolate Mousse with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Shavings
