The Black Business Association of Oregon Hires its First Communications Director

Portland, Ore.: The Black Business Association of Oregon (BBAO) has hired Sommer Martin as its first communications director. She brings to the BBAO extensive knowledge of non-profit, transportation, economic development, strategic communication and video production.

Previously, Martin was director of downtown marketing for the Portland Business Alliance, where she developed and managed seasonal marketing campaigns designed to promote downtown attractions, businesses, amenities, events and experiences within the city of Portland's designated market area. Martin has a BS in mass communications from Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee, and an MS in Multimedia Journalism from the University of Oregon.

"This is such an exciting time to be a Black business owner in Oregon," says Martin.

"I have a purpose here, and I will use my experience and the backing of the BBAO executive director, board members, partners and investors to create a solid communications plan connecting critical business information to Black-owned businesses in every corner of the state."

"We are fortunate to have Sommer as a part of the BBAO team," says Lance Randall, executive director of the BBAO. "Her educational background, communications experience, knowledge of strategic planning, and deep roots in the region make her the ideal person to head our communications division."

The Black Business Association of Oregon is an economic development organization striving to achieve economic equity that is sustainable and lasting for Black-owned businesses in Oregon. To learn more about the Black Business Association of Oregon, go to https://bbaoregon.org/.