2023 Honored Citizen: Hermann Colas, Jr.

Celebrating Hermann Colas, Jr.

Hermann Colas, Jr. is a proud Haitian, American, and Veteran who served during the Vietnam War, became a distinguished scholar, civic and business leader dedicating his life’s work to strengthening communities. Hermann’s story began in 1948 in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, where he learned how to lead as the eldest son of eight siblings. His love for his family and the family home inspired his career path and mission, eventually leading to the founding of Colas Construction (COLAS), a general contracting firm headquartered in Portland, now owned and operated by the second generation.

Following his six-year service in the U.S. Army, Hermann graduated from Portland State University with distinguished honors, and as a double major in computer science and mathematics. He served over 20 years as a business executive, leading teams at US WEST.

In 1997, Hermann pursued his longtime goal of starting a family business. He founded Colas Construction with a vision to address the underinvestment in housing for communities of color residing in North and Northeast Portland.

Today, his impact on countless families remains clear with an impressive portfolio of housing, tenant improvements, and renovations. COLAS is nationally and locally recognized for delivering excellence in construction for a diverse scope of housing, education, civic, and healthcare projects.

Please join us for a special gathering to celebrate Hermann Colas, Jr. and our 30th anniversary of Honored Citizen.

2023 Honored Citizen celebration

Sustaining Sponsorship by
Portland State University & the PSU Foundation
University of Oregon College of Design

Tuesday, October 10
5:30pm Reception  |  7pm Dinner
Oregon Convention Center
Oregon Ballroom

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