The evening of October 17th, the Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council (NWMMSDC) brought together partners, business leaders, and community members for an unforgettable evening of celebration at the 2025 Leadership and Advocacy Awards. The event honored those who exemplify leadership, equity, and commitment to strengthening supplier development across the region in the past year (2024).
This year’s ceremony took place at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), a stunning and vibrant backdrop that reflected the Council’s spirit of creativity and connection. The venue came alive with color, laughter, and energy as guests gathered to celebrate a year of progress and partnership.
The ceremony featured a stirring keynote address by Nathalie Molina Niño, Co-Founder & President at Known, Author of Leapfrog whose words reminded everyone of the power of resilience, equity, and leadership in action. She spoke about using influence with intention and creating opportunity for others, themes that deeply resonated with the audience.
Guiding the evening was the ever-charismatic Ricardo Ibarra, President and Creative Director at Trio Group, who brought humor, heart, and professionalism as emcee. His warmth set the tone for a night filled with connection and celebration.
Throughout the night, the Council recognized extraordinary individuals and organizations who continue to push boundaries, build bridges, and create lasting impact in supplier development.
What the Awards Embody
The Leadership and Advocacy Awards embody the NWMMSDC’s mission to recognize those advancing equity, opportunity, and inclusive economic growth. Each award highlights the leadership, advocacy, and partnership that strengthen suppliers across the region.
The Robert L. Ryan Award honors corporate member employees whose dedication and leadership have advanced minority business success. The John A. Gilmore Award celebrates certified MBEs who demonstrate entrepreneurship, advocacy, and community impact. The Phyllis Gutierrez Kenney Award recognizes public agency leaders who create meaningful opportunities for diverse businesses to thrive.
In addition to these legacy awards, the Council also honors the Suppliers of the Year (Classes I–IV), celebrating outstanding certified MBEs of all sizes who exemplify innovation, growth, and partnership. The Public Agency of the Year and Regional Corporation of the Year awards recognize organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to supplier development and inclusive economic development.
Together, these honors reflect the collective effort to build a more connected, equitable, and prosperous business community across the Northwest Mountain region.
2024 Award Recipients
Robert L. Ryan Award – Lesley Zavar, Director, Global Responsible Sourcing & Supply Chain Traceability, Starbucks Coffee Company
John A. Gilmore Award – Ricardo Ibarra, President & Creative Director, Trio Group
Phyllis Gutierrez Kenney Award – Kim Sauer, Business Diversity Program Manager, Washington State Department of Enterprise Services
Supplier of the Year, Class I – Lanier’s Fine Candies
Supplier of the Year, Class II – Red Door Collaborative LLC
Supplier of the Year, Class III – Inabia Solutions & Consulting
Supplier of the Year, Class IV – World Wide Technology
Public Agency of the Year – King County
Regional Corporation of the Year – M.A. Mortenson Company
The evening also included a heartfelt tribute to Phyllis Gutierrez Kenney, by Fernando Martinez, former CEO of the NWMMSDC and founder of Sante Fe Street Consulting, whose lifelong dedication to public service and advocacy has left an enduring mark on the community.
The NWMMSDC extends its deepest gratitude to all who attended and supported the 2025 Leadership and Advocacy Awards. The evening stood as a testament to what’s possible when businesses, corporations, and communities come together to champion inclusion and opportunity.
The full photo gallery from the evening, captured by Mike Nakamura Photography, is now available here: View the 2025 Leadership and Advocacy Awards Gallery
About the Northwest Mountain MSDC
The Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council helps grow the economy by connecting minority-owned businesses with corporate and public agency partners. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, the Council works to create opportunities, support local communities, and build a stronger, more inclusive Northwest Mountain region.