Uses compassion and innovative leadership to help others.

I am of Mexican-American descent and raised by my mother who had a sixth-grade education. Despite my humble beginnings I continued with my education and received a master’s degree from Portland State University. My primary focus has been working with others to impact positive change and inspiration.

I am President and Co-Owner of Canopy, one of the largest privately held companies that provides a variety of mental health and well-being services globally. The company has been recognized by the Portland Business Journal as the number one small business “Healthiest Employers” and one of the top innovative companies in Oregon.

Perhaps I am most proud, however, of being one of the founders of the Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber in 1994 and serving as its President/Executive Director for over 20 years. I continue to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors. The Hispanic Chamber has assisted thousands of Latinos and others to start and/or grow their business; has awarded over $3 million in scholarships to Latino students throughout Oregon and SW Washington and has conducted Latino Leadership training program for over 350 Latino individuals.

At the center of my life is family. I am married and have three sons.

Gale has been recognized over the years for her community service, some of her more recent awards include:

• Ohtli Award – the highest honor bestowed by the Government of Mexico to individuals who have worked to “open the path” for new Mexican Americans and Hispanic generations.

• “Oregon’s History Makers” by the Oregon Historical Society.

• Women of Influence, Joan Austin Award – Oregon Business Journal.