The Port of Seattle’s Office of Social Responsibility was created to establish a more meaningful and accountable link to the community—one that would help assure that all Port business is conducted fairly, inclusively, openly, and with the region’s economic development in mind. In January 2008, the Port welcomed Elaine Ko as the first Director of Social Responsibility.

Elaine served for several years as executive director of Interim Community Development Association, which facilitates community development in Seattle’s International District. She’s also had extensive experience as a small business owner and an advocate for women and minorities. In her new role for the Port, she is leading the focus on facilitating opportunities for small and disadvantaged businesses through the Small Business Program, developing the Veterans Fellowship Program to help military personnel make the transition to civilian employment, and partnering with companies like Holland America and Northwest Harvest to contribute to local charities through the Ship to Shelter program.

“Elaine is the right person to help the Port engage all the ethnic groups and community organizations that work with Port of Seattle. She and her team are reaching out effectively to groups we have not previously been able to touch,” says Port CEO Tay Yoshitani.