CEIC HONORS VISIONARY LEADERS IN THE CENTRAL EASTSIDE WITH 2025 COMMUNITY CATALYST AWARDS
Central Eastside Industrial Council (CEIC) is pleased to announce the recipients of our third annual Community Catalyst Award, which recognizes individuals whose leadership strengthens the fabric of the Central Eastside and brings people together in ways that create lasting, positive change. This year, the committee selected two honorees whose contributions represent the full range of community leadership, from highly visible public activation to steady, behind-the-scenes problem solving.
Established in 2023, the Community Catalyst Award is presented each year at the Annual District Celebration. Nominations come through a public process and are reviewed by a volunteer committee of at large members and the previous year’s recipient. The 2024 honoree was Chelsea Rooklyn, Brand and Impact Manager at Killian Pacific.
“The CEIC is honored to celebrate Alex and Brooke—two dynamic leaders who have made a meaningful impact, in very different ways, for the betterment of the Central Eastside business community,” said Carolyne Holcomb, CEIC Executive Director. “They both show that real change happens one block at a time, often starting with a single idea that grows into something much bigger. The Central Eastside’s future is promising because of leaders like them who continue to invest their time and talents into making this a better place to work and visit.”
MEET THE 2025 AWARD RECIPIENTS
Alex Murrell, Executive Director, Dream Big City
2025 Co Recipient, Community Catalyst Award
Alex Murrell was recognized for his visible, community-centered leadership that has changed how young people, families, and longtime Central Eastsiders use and experience public space. Alex’s impact is rooted in his work with Dream Big City, where he connects youth, elders, and underserved communities through mentorship, recreation, art, outreach, and steady relationship building.
His transformation of Dream Big Plaza at SE 9th and Taylor is a defining example of his work. It features a record setting skateboard mural and Fam Jam, a weekly summer through fall gathering that blends skating, basketball, art, and community. Alex has contributed to public spaces near the Burnside Skatepark and throughout Portland for decades. He is well known for his authenticity, humility, and long commitment to the communities he serves.
A video highlighting Alex’s work and impact, featured at the Annual District Celebration, is available to watch here.
Brooke Cabatic, Property Manager, SPP Properties
2025 Co Recipient, Community Catalyst Award
Brooke Cabatic was recognized for her steady and effective behind-the-scenes leadership throughout some of the most challenging years the district has faced. Brooke has managed the historic Logus Building for more than 15 years. During the early months of the pandemic, as businesses faced higher crime, safety concerns, operational strain, and rapid change, she created Block Talk, an informal monthly meeting for neighboring businesses. What began as a small support group grew into a trusted forum where business owners could compare experiences, coordinate solutions, and speak directly with representatives from the City, County, State, and Police. Over time, Block Talk expanded beyond the immediate block and has become a space for conversation about issues affecting the wider District.
Her leadership is driven by the belief that bringing people together is the first step in solving complex problems. Brooke’s consistency, optimism, and community mindset have made her a grounding force for the district during a time of significant change.
A video highlighting Brooke’s work and impact, featured at the Annual District Celebration, is available to watch here.
LOOKING AHEAD
Public nominations for the 2026 Community Catalyst Award will open in Fall 2026. CEIC looks forward to celebrating another outstanding leader at next year’s Annual Member Celebration.