nancybaker2012Mrs. Baker retires after 26 years of extraordinary service to port industry and community

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Commissioner Nancy Baker presided over a packed house Dec. 22 for her final board meeting at the Port of Vancouver USA.

Commissioner Baker, who was elected in 2003 as the port’s first female commissioner, served the port for a total of 26 years – 14 years as an employee and 12 years as a commissioner. She will officially retire at the end of her term on Dec. 31, 2015.

Her long and dedicated service, studded with accomplishments, was lauded by leaders and community members who gathered Tuesday to thank Commissioner Baker and wish her well.

“You’re a role model for a lot of young women,” said Vancouver City Councilor Jack Burkman. “[They] look to you and say, wow, this is how you do it. This is how you create change in a really constructive way.”

Commissioner Baker received numerous awards during her tenure at the port, including the Southwest Washington Labor Roundtable Community Service Award, Washington Public Ports Association Outstanding Service to Industry Award and Pacific Northwest Waterways Distinguished Service Award. She was named one of Clark County’s Women of Achievement in 1996 by Clark College and the YWCA, and one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in Clark County in 2007 by The Columbian.

“The way that you’ve served – with integrity, passion and determination – has been a true testament to your service,” said Columbia River Economic Development Council President Mike Bomar. “I want to thank you for the thousands of hours you spent behind the scenes over the years and being a great leader.”

Commissioner Baker plans to enjoy more time with her family and remain active in the community by continuing to serve on non-profit boards.

The Port of Vancouver USA, its partners and its associates thank Commissioner Nancy Baker for her dedication, foresight and integrity as a leader of this port and our community.

– POV –

The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.