United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Rosa Navejar, President of The Rios Group, Robert Martinez, Founder and CEO of the Braven Agency, and Silvestre “Sil” Gonzales, Co-Owner of Gresham Ford, have been appointed to the USHCC National Board of Directors, the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) is pleased to announce. These three exceptional business people have a wealth of experience working with the Hispanic community and aim to increase their support for Latino-owned companies in America.

USHCC Welcomes Top Latino Small Business Owners

Rosa, Robert, and Sil are now part of the USHCC’s growing national presence and influence, and the USHCC Board of Directors is incredibly happy to welcome them. To better serve America’s rising economic future, which is driven by small company owners, we are enhancing our experience and industry diversity through these three business leaders, said Alice Rodriguez, USHCC Chairwoman of the Board of Directors. “These three outstanding businesspeople bring with them a vibrant entrepreneurial attitude and distinctive experience gained through years of financial success, supporting their local communities and creating jobs. They will meet the demands of the 5 million Hispanic-owned companies in our country.

Over 40 Years of Experience

Gresham Ford of Gresham, Oregon, was aquired by Sil Gonzales, who also serves as its principal. With more than 40 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, Sil is regarded as an inventive pioneer and a steadfast supporter of the Hispanic population in the automobile industry. Hispanic views have always been heard at the decision-making table as a result of his service on the boards of directors for the Ford Minority Dealers Association and the Daimler Chrysler Minority Association.

Leaders from USHCC Chambers of Commerce, Hispanic Business Enterprises (HBEs), and Corporate Partner Members make up the USHCC Board of Directors. Each of Navejar, Martinez, and Gonzales will have a three-year tenure with the option of an extension.

“The USHCC Board of Directors is pleased to welcome three more outstanding leaders. They are the perfect partners to make sure that Hispanic perspectives are heard throughout America’s broad business community because of their dedication to improving the Hispanic business community,” according to Ramiro A. Cavazos, USHCC President & CEO.

Previously Awarded Sam Walton Business Leader Award

Silvestre “Sil” has more than 40 years of management expertise in the public and private sectors, including managing corporations, banks, and development firms. He was able to build a number of prosperous private equity franchises in the automotive industry thanks to his extensive expertise and experience. His peers have recognized him; he was named a “Sam Walton Business Leader” and nominated for Time Quality Dealer of the Year in 2002. He has lobbied on behalf of that cause and has always been a champion for diversity in the automotive industry. As a prominent member of the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD), he has served on the boards of the DaimlerChrysler Minority Association and the Ford Minority Association. He has held positions on numerous Dealer Ad Councils for both domestic and foreign vehicles. He currently holds the positions of President of Gresham Automotive Group, Inc. DBA Gresham Ford in Gresham, Oregon, as well as Ford of Ventura in Ventura, California. He has also received recognition as a member of Ford Motor Company’s exclusive group of President’s Award Winning Dealerships (2009, 2011, and 2012). He belongs to Rotary International and has received the Rotarian of the Year award from his club. Sil has four kids from a previous marriage.

Sil Gonzales Welcomes New Role

He transferred his vast knowledge and experience to the operation of Auto Dealerships in Southern California and Oregon. His extensive experience in managing businesses, banks, and development companies for both the public and private sectors will surely benefit the Chamber.  Sil Gonzales received his Bachelor’s degree in Finance from California State University in Los Angles in 1965.  He then continued to USC and UCLA Graduate Schools of Business from 1965 to 1967.  He rounded out his formal education at Southwestern University School of Law from 1967 to 1969. 

Professional Affiliations and Recognition for Sil Gonzales

• National Automobile Dealers Associationlinkedin
• NAMAD – National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers 2015 Distinguished Service Award
• OADA – Oregon Auto Dealers Association
• 2002 – Time Quality Dealer of the Year
• Sam Walton Business Leader Award
• Past Board Member of Daimler Chrysler Minority Association
• Past Board Member of Ford Minority Dealers Association

He has assisted in their mission to grow diversity and inclusion among the next generation, as well as serving to promote ethnic minority interests on Capitol Hill before Federal and State legislatures. Service on a variety of Dealer Ad Councils with diversity as a focal point has shifted the voice of both domestic and imported brands. 

Small Businesses Drive America

Small businesses have a significant impact on the economy and communities. In the United States, small businesses make up nearly 99% of all businesses and employ almost 50% of the private-sector workforce, according to the Small Business Administration. Small businesses are not only job creators but also contribute to the economy by bringing vitality to local communities.

Small businesses play a vital role in promoting diversity, economic growth, and social well-being. However, achieving these objectives requires the inclusion of all members of the community, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. Inclusion in the small business community requires creating a welcoming environment that celebrates differences and promotes equality.

One of the significant factors contributing to the success of small businesses is the ability to build meaningful relationships with customers. To connect with diverse communities, small businesses must adopt an inclusive approach that acknowledges and respects different perspectives. For example, some small businesses thrive by using local ingredients and providing culturally-specific cuisines, giving customers a sense of community and belonging.

Additionally, promoting diversity in the workplace helps small businesses address the various challenges they face. Diverse teams bring new ideas, perspectives, and experiences, which can lead to innovation, creativity, and problem-solving in ways that homogeneous teams may not achieve.

Furthermore, an inclusive small business community can contribute to economic growth by creating opportunities for entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to establish thriving businesses. This can lead to services and products that cater to the unique needs of specific communities, strengthening local economies.

Promoting inclusion in the small business community is crucial for diversity, economic growth, and social well-being. Small businesses must create a culture of inclusivity by respecting and celebrating differences, embracing diversity in the workplace, and focusing on building meaningful relationships with customers. Small businesses that achieve these objectives not only contribute to the success of their own companies but also strengthen their communities, promoting a more prosperous future for everyone.  Gresham Ford is proud to serve the Greater Gresham Area and humbled to be your Oregon Ford Dealer of choice.