Washington, D.C., Aug. 28, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) is proud to announce Mark Madrid, CEO of the Latino Business Action Network (LBAN), as this year’s recipient of the LGBT Advocate of the Year award. Mark Madrid will be presented with this prestigious award at the USHCC’s National Convention in Dallas, Texas, on October 1st.

Every year, the USHCC presents this award to an individual that has been a strong advocate for the LGBT community, demonstrating that inclusiveness and acceptance are cornerstones of a strong company and a united community.

“We are honored to present this award to Mark at our National Convention this year. The USHCC recognizes the importance of diversity in our community, both in the boardroom and in our society. Diversity has less to do with one’s gender, sexual orientation, identity or skin color, and everything to do with openness of the heart and mind,” said Javier Palomarez, USHCC President & CEO. “Mark embodies this belief as seen in his work as an LGBT advocate throughout the Hispanic community. He is a tireless advocate for preparing the next generation of Hispanic business leaders for our ever changing economy. By tearing down the obstacles to success he has opened up tremendous opportunities to our young entrepreneurs. The Hispanic community is a more united, inclusive community because of people like Mark.”

“I am humbled and honored to receive this award from the USHCC. The chamber and the Latino Business Action Network share the same goal of advancing the Hispanic community for generations to come.” said Mark Madrid. “Always, entrepreneurs should be respected based on their merit, integrity and quality of their work, not by their gender or sexual orientation. I am proud to play a role in obliterating barriers that previously excluded some of our best and brightest. It is my obligation and duty of a lifetime to uphold this mission and to encourage all Americans to value diversity as our greatest asset.”

The Latino Business Action Network is committed to making America stronger through LBAN funded Latino research and education impact programs at Stanford University. Through LBAN’s work, Hispanic-owned businesses are creating jobs, benefiting the economy, and improving the lives of all Americans.

Identified as one of the most important Hispanic leaders in the areas of finance and nonprofits, Mark Madrid has put his passion to work in education as well. He serves on the board of the McCoy College of Business Administration at Texas State University and was recognized by both his alma maters, the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Notre Dame. He has also created a flourishing scholarship program for young Hispanic students at the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Notre Dame and Texas State University.

To learn more about the USHCC National Convention, visit ushcc.com/convention.

About the USHCC

The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth, development and interests of more than 4.2 million Hispanic-owned businesses, that combined, contribute over $668 billion to the American economy every year. It also advocates on behalf of 260 major American corporations and serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local chambers and business associations nationwide. For more information, visit ushcc.com. Follow us on Twitter @USHCC.