By Aaron Boot-Haury –
This year’s Annual Membership Meeting at The Producer’s Loft Studio was a powerful reminder of why the Golden Gate Business Association (GGBA) exists—and why our work matters now more than ever. As President & CEO, I had the privilege of welcoming members, friends, and partners to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and to share where we’re headed as the nation’s first LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce.
Honoring Our Leaders
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was honoring Nancy Geenen with the 2025 Board Service Award. Nancy has given so much to this chamber, including her (unexpected) time as President during a difficult period, and it was an honor to recognize her impact in front of our community. We also officially confirmed our 2025–2026 Board of Directors, a group of committed leaders from across industries who will help guide GGBA into the future.
2025–2026 GGBA Board of Directors
Joy Baucom – Diligence Security Group
Aaron Boot-Haury – PNC Bank
Tali Bray – Dewpoint Consulting Group
Imani Brown – ALSAC/St. Jude’s
Gina Grahame – Authentacious Leadership
Stella Lim – AM Diversity Ventures
Josh Nair – Genentech
Tanya Saracino – Execution Over Theory
Joe Solis – Northwestern Mutual
Peggy Sue – Culture Impact Consulting
Juan Torres – Copain Wines
Scott Wilson – Wells Fargo Bank
James Young – Tangible
I am grateful for this outstanding group of leaders, each of whom brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to strengthening our community.
Behind the Scenes Work That Matters
Much of our progress this past year has taken place behind the scenes. We paid off all outstanding obligations from our 50th Anniversary Gala, reconciled and audited our financials, and restructured our files and systems to create a stronger foundation for growth. We relaunched our Make Contact networking events, oriented new board members, and held a full-day strategic planning retreat to set clear goals for our committees. We also reconnected with fellow chambers through the NGLCC (National LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce), sharing best practices and learning how to better serve our members. A huge thank you to the Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA), which has donated the time of their paid staff to help our volunteer committee chairs get their footing.
Programs and Events That Connect Us
Our programs are only as strong as the members who show up for them. Over the past year, we’ve seen consistent engagement at Make Contact events hosted by partners like Wells Fargo, Northwestern Mutual, and St. Jude, along with educational programs and community celebrations like our Holiday Party co-hosted with the San Francisco Bay Times. These gatherings are more than events—they are places where LGBTQ+ and allied businesses connect, learn, and grow together.
Looking ahead, we’re preparing to take our programming to the next level. Expect more opportunities for education, more targeted networking, and larger signature events, including a Pride Month Business Expo in June 2026 and a Power Connect summit later that fall.
Our Priorities Moving Forward
At the meeting, I outlined four key priorities that will guide our work:
1. Membership – Reaching out to lapsed members, updating our Ambassador Program, and gathering meaningful feedback through surveys.
2. Partnerships – Refreshing our sponsorship model and reconnecting with past and potential partners.
3. Communications – Rebranding with a new website, mission, and newsletter while amplifying our members’ businesses.
4. Events – Elevating Make Contact, expanding our educational offerings, and deepening our regional reach.
Upcoming Opportunities to Connect
I invite you to join us for some exciting upcoming events: fall educational webinars sponsored by PG&E, Make Contact Oakland on October 16 presented by Barbary Insurance, and our annual Holiday Party on December 12 co-hosted with the San Francisco Bay Times and the SF LGBT Center.
How You Can Help Shape Our Future
GGBA is only as strong as the members and partners who fuel it. As we look to the year ahead, I invite you to:
• Share your feedback with us.
• Reconsider rejoining if your membership has lapsed.
• Connect us to new ideas, programs, and partnerships.
• Do business with fellow members.
• Show up—your presence makes a difference.
Together, we will continue to grow this chamber, create economic opportunity, and strengthen the LGBTQ+ and allied business community across the Bay Area.
For more information, visit our website (https://www.ggba.com/) or reach me directly (President@ggba.com).
Aaron Boot-Haury is the President & CEO of the Golden Gate Business Association.
GGBA Message from Leadership
Published on September 25, 2025
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