On Thursday, December 11, 2025, the Three Rivers Business Alliance hosted its annual My Business My Pride Gala, a celebration of LGBTQ+ excellence in business, nonprofit leadership, and community advocacy. Held at the Sheraton Station Square, the gala brought together trailblazers from across Western Pennsylvania and beyond to recognize outstanding contributions to equity, inclusion, and innovation.
The event, hosted by Indi Skies, featured Brian Sims, nationally known LGBTQ+ advocate and former Pennsylvania State Representative, as a special guest. The gala’s honorees represented a broad spectrum of industries and identities, each demonstrating how leadership shaped by lived queer experiences can have a powerful impact on society.
Celebrating Technological Innovation and the Power of Community
Todd Feiler, co-founder and CEO of Ringlet, received the Technological Innovation Award for his work creating tech solutions that support caregivers and strengthen support networks. Feiler, who also co-founded the Pittsburgh chapter of Out in Tech, is recognized for using technology to bridge gaps in family caregiving while advocating for greater inclusion in the tech sector.
Elevating LGBTQ+ Voices in the Arts
Contemporary Craft was honored with the Excellence in Creative Arts Award for its longstanding commitment to showcasing artists working in fiber, metal, and wood with a focus on multicultural diversity. Under the leadership of Executive Director Rachel Saul Rearick, the organization has amplified LGBTQ+ voices through innovative exhibitions and programming, including affinity group support and community residencies.
Leading with Advocacy and Visibility
Ian Price, President of Steel City Stonewall Democrats, received the LGBTQ+ Community Champion Award for his decades of advocacy work. From organizing rallies to working within political and public health networks, Price has remained a constant voice for LGBTQ+ rights in both grassroots and policy spaces. He also contributes to community health and wellness as a volunteer and advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention.
Institutions Advancing Equity
The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh was awarded the Excellence in Leadership in DEI Award, highlighting its institutional commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. Through community feedback, targeted programming, and a public-facing IDEA framework, the library system has become a vital access point for individuals of all backgrounds and identities.
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Emerging and Expansive Leadership
Ron Debiec, a Complaint Investigator at Covestro, received the Emerging LGBTQ+ Leader Award for his leadership within the company’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group and his work facilitating inclusive programs for transitioning employees and Pride events.
The Gender Expansive Leadership Award was presented to Jule Arney, Director of Training & Research at the Hugh Lane Wellness Foundation. With over 20 years of service in LGBTQ+ health advocacy, Arney’s data-informed approach has helped advance equity in government agencies, schools, and nonprofits. Arney also serves on the City of Pittsburgh’s LGBTQIA+ Advisory Council and is recognized for building safe spaces and training programs across the region.
Honoring Long-Term Impact
Liz Mims received the 3RBA Chamber Member of the Year Award for her decade-long leadership with Dress for Success Pittsburgh and her work creating inclusive service models for women and non-binary people. Mims leads EmployHER Pittsburgh across three counties and is widely respected for her dedication to the mental health and career success of marginalized populations.
Kevin Walker, President and CEO of Duquesne Light Company, was named LGBTQ+ Leader of the Year. With more than 30 years in the energy sector, Walker is driving clean energy transition in the region. A West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran, Walker has also served in leadership at Southern California Edison and the American Electric Power Company.
Celebrating Business Leadership
The LGBTQ+ Small Business of the Year Award went to Dr. Karon Spriggs-Bethea, founder of Let’s Talk Solutions. A clinical social worker and professor, Spriggs-Bethea is committed to trauma-informed, affirming services for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities.
The LGBTQ+ Large Business of the Year Award was presented to Evo Eco, an environmental services company based in Youngstown, Ohio. Under the leadership of founder Andrew Grueber, Evo Eco has become a regional leader in stormwater and sewer management, with a mission rooted in environmental sustainability and workforce equity.
Melissa Crawford, founder of Devoted to You and Franklin on Penn, received the Enterprising Woman of the Year Award for redefining the wedding industry through modern, inclusive experiences. Known for her meticulous approach and bold aesthetic, Crawford continues to empower women-owned businesses through intentional event design.
Dylan Lew, CEO of Ecotone Renewables, was recognized with the Inspiration in the Workplace Award. A Carnegie Mellon graduate, Lew developed the ZEUS biodigester system, converting food waste into renewable energy and fertilizer. His work merges sustainability with environmental justice and LGBTQ+ empowerment.
Honoring Civic Vision
Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey received the Nicolette Rafalski Spirit of Pride Award for his leadership and advocacy for equitable housing, education, and infrastructure. As the city’s first Black mayor, Gainey has been a champion for inclusive policies that center historically marginalized communities.
Recognizing Allyship in Business
The LGBTQ+ Ally Business Award was given to Brand Strategies Group, a marketing agency founded by Erin Miller. BSG partners with nonprofits and advocacy organizations to deliver purpose-driven campaigns and communications strategies. Their pro bono and equity-centered initiatives have supported health, economic development, and queer advocacy across the region.