Steven Garibell, a New Jersey native who has more than 20 years of experience fostering economic empowerment for diverse communities, was named president of the New Jersey Pride Chamber of Commerce, effective immediately, its board announced Thursday.
Garibell, who leads the community and LGBTQ+ business development efforts for TD Bank with responsibilities to educate diverse-owned enterprises, is known for having built relationships with the business communities in New Jersey and New York.
Garibell also has a strong relationship with the chamber, having served on NJPCC’s board of directors from 2019-21, and most recently as chairman of the NJPCC’s advisory board.
“I’m excited to help provide further guidance, resources and economic insight that our community of business owners needs to get them to succeed and build their dreams,” he said.
NJPCC Executive Director Gus Penaranda welcomed Garibell to the role.
“Steven will add a different level of experience to the role of board president, and his network in the corporate community will enhance the Pride Chamber’s network,” he said.
Garibell is well-known within the community as a bridge builder, connecting customers, colleagues and community partners to help bring opportunities to all. As part of his community outreach, he helps administer financial empowerment seminars and has served as a past board member for the Montclair YMCA and Hudson County Community College Foundation, as well as the Pride Chamber.
He is a strong supporter of Diverse Business Certifications and currently sits on the Certification Committee for the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce.
At TD, he has served in leadership roles in retail and commercial banking, served as the lead for the Metro N.Y. Diversity Council and is a member of the LGBTQ2+ Diversity Leadership team. He works toward fostering a more inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ professionals within the financial industry, helping to ensure that TD remains a top employer.
In 2018, Garibell decided to embark on his entrepreneurial journey with a longtime friend, Anthony, opening Hounds Town Bergen, a franchise of Hounds Town USA and the network’s first location outside of Long Island.
Due to the immense success of his first business, he and his business partner opened a second location, Hounds Town Fairfield, in August 2021. Garibell frequently gives back to the community by helping to support local animal shelters and rescues.
In addition to Garibell and Penaranda, the NJPCC board includes Jacob Meola, Stephanie Lokker, Victor Peter Rodriguez and John Traier.
