FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PORTLAND, ORE. (April 26, 2012) – Gerry Frank Receives 2011 Port of Portland Compass Award

Gerry Frank

The Port of Portland today announced that Gerry Frank, former chief of staff to U.S. Sen. Mark O. Hatfield, has received the Port's 2011 Compass Award.

The award, presented at the Port's annual "Gateway to the Globe" meeting, recognizes the contributions of community individuals and entities that have demonstrated exceptional support for the Port of Portland. Compass Award recipients serve as civic and/or corporate role models through their outstanding contributions to the Port and the communities it serves. Recipients can be recognized for overall support of the Port's strategic mission or any of the Port's individual business functions including aviation, marine, environmental affairs, properties and business development. 

Frank served as chief of staff with Hatfield for 20 years and has often been referred to as Oregon's third Senator. Active in Oregon's civic and business community for more than six decades and a prolific writer and commentator, Frank was recognized as a true statesman, ambassador and thought leader who helped put Oregon on the map for business and travelers alike.

"Gerry has graciously given of his own personal time and energy to civic causes and has traveled overseas on behalf of the State of Oregon on trade missions and consular visits. In addition, he has helped the Port achieve its mission through his incredible business network and tireless commitment to Oregon's growth and prosperity. For this, we would like to honor him today," said Port Commission President Judi Johansen in presenting the award.

More than 450 business leaders, elected officials and community stakeholders attended this year's Gateway to the Globe event which provides annual updates on Port activities, challenges and opportunities. This year's keynote speaker was Gov. John Kitzhaber.