Dr. Jennifer Camota Luebke, president and CEO of Relay Resources, the Pacific Northwest nonprofit advancing disability inclusion in the workplace, has been named a 2026 Executive of the Year by the Portland Business Journal.
Dr. Camota Luebke, who joined Relay in July 2023, is the first woman of color and first disabled person to lead the organization in its 74-year history. Her leadership focuses on creating workplaces and communities where all disabled people belong, advancing inclusion through strategic growth, innovative programs, and high-impact partnerships.
“I’m honored to receive this award celebrating Relay Resources’ work promoting disability inclusion,” said Dr. Camota Luebke. “This mission is deeply personal to me as a parent of a son with an intellectual disability and someone recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. I’m devoted to carrying the Relay founders’ legacy forward while transforming workplaces for the future.”
Impact and Achievements
Since joining Relay, Dr. Camota Luebke has:
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Expanded the workforce by 20%, from 750 to 900 employees, creating over 100 jobs for disabled and neurodivergent people.
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Increased annual revenue by 30% to $71 million.
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Built a diverse executive leadership team and board, enhancing strategic guidance.
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Launched strategic partnerships, including the abilIT technology and cybersecurity program with Melwood and the Department of Education.
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Led Competitive Integrated Employment programs, helping disabled employees access equitable jobs with advancement opportunities.
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Founded the DisabilityNext™ Summit, bringing 300 business leaders together in its first year to discuss inclusion.
Experts and colleagues highlight her unique ability to blend strategy with empathy. “Dr. Jennifer drives measurable results while creating spaces of belonging, dignity, and empowerment,” said Orlando Williams, CEO of Motus Recruiting.
Career Background and Recognition
Before Relay, Dr. Camota Luebke served as SVP and Chief Workforce Inclusion Officer at PRIDE Industries and co-founded Ability Revolution Inc., advocating for disability inclusion through media and education initiatives. Her work has earned global and local recognition, including:
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Jefferson Award for Public Service (2018)
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Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World, Innovator & Thought Leader (2022)
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Sacramento Bee’s Top 25 AAPI Change Makers (2022)
Portland Business Journal Executive of the Year awards recognize leaders who demonstrate strategic vision, operational excellence, and transformative impact across nonprofit and for-profit sectors. A celebratory luncheon will be held on January 28, 2026, at The Sentinel in Portland.
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