Debbie Simmons Community Service Award

This award was established by the MBA Board of Directors in honor of its founding president, Debbie Simmons.  2007 saw the retirement of longtime MBA Orlando President Debbie Simmons. Debbie Simmons was President of MBA Orlando for 16 years and Come Out With Pride Senior Executive Producer from 2005 through 2007. While working determinedly to create protections for all citizens in Orlando and Orange County, she was also the Co-Owner of Shelbie Press, a successful printing shop. From marches on Washington to the gathering of local support for the City of Orlando's Human Rights Ordinance, Debbie worked relentlessly for the LGBT community and its businesses.

In 2008, MBA Orlando President Dr. David Baker-Hargrove and the board of directors decided to create an annual community service award recognizing the hard work our business leaders put into our community.

Each year this award is presented to a distinguished member working within the LGBT community who embodies the spirit of giving, dedication, and exemplary community service. Each recipient must demonstrate integrity, leadership, high moral character and success in their business endeavors. But, they are also an individual who has taken their time and energy to support, promote and fight for equality. Someone whose extra efforts in fighting for human rights for all citizens has stood out as an example to us all for what can be done to advance the causes of the LGBT Community.

Pride in Business Awards Gala

In 2012, the Debbie Simmons Community Service Award celebration will be a part of our inaugural Pride in Business Awards Gala that will recognize our community leaders, small businesses and corporate allies who demonstrate the same Pride in their business and community as Debbie Simmons and our other past recipients.

Click here for more information about our 2012 Pride in Business Awards Gala.

2011 - Jennifer Foster

2010- Michael Slaymaker

2009 - Pat Padilla

2008 - Debbie Simmons