Philadelphia shone with the colors, sounds, and pride of the Latino community during the Hispanic Heritage Month Gala. Organized by Hispanic Media, with Jefferson as the title sponsor, the evening has become one of the most emblematic events on the city’s cultural and community calendar.
From the red carpet—where guests were greeted with glamour and enthusiasm—to the carefully designed spaces at Live! Casino & Hotel, every corner offered a unique experience: elegant, warm, and welcoming. Music, gastronomy, and artistic expressions created a festive atmosphere blending pride in one’s roots with excitement for a future full of opportunity.
Leadership, Commitment, and Diversity
This year’s edition of the gala, with PECO as the presenting sponsor, brought together an outstanding group of honorees who represent the best of Hispanic leadership, commitment, and diversity. Each story—marked by perseverance and service—resonated deeply among those in attendance.
Jacqueline C. Romero, distinguished attorney and former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, was honored for her pioneering career in law and her defense of community representation.
VIEW PHOTO GALLERY OF THE HISPANIC GALA
Reverend Bonnie Camarda, leader of The Salvation Army, received recognition for her spiritual and social work.
Rómulo L. “Romy” Díaz, Jr., director of Turtle on Post LLC, for his influence in both the corporate and public sectors.
Varsovia Fernández, executive director of Pennsylvania CDFI Network, for her role in economic development and financial inclusion.
Antonio Valdés, CEO of the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center, for his dedication to transforming the lives of youth in vulnerable situations.
VIEW PHOTO GALLERY OF THE RED CARPET
Jannette Díaz, executive director of Congreso de Latinos Unidos, for her tireless advocacy for community well-being.
Edwin Desamour, executive director of The Lighthouse, for his leadership in youth empowerment in North Philadelphia.
The gala also honored JPMorgan Chase as Corporate of the Year, a distinction that highlights its commitment to inclusion, entrepreneurship, and economic development. With more than 225 years of history, the institution has shown that corporate leadership can go hand in hand with social impact. Jimmy Contreras, Vice President of U.S. Regional Communications at JPMorgan Chase, accepted the award on behalf of the company.
You can read: Hispanic Heritage Month Gala: The Latino Heart of the City of Philadelphia
The honorees also received proclamations presented by Philadelphia City Commissioner Omar Sabir.
The event was made possible thanks to the valuable support of Jefferson, the gala’s title sponsor. Tiffany Tavarez, Vice President of Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships at Jefferson’s Office of Community Impact & Belonging, reaffirmed the message of collaboration and progress that defines this celebration. Jefferson’s support reflects its ongoing commitment to equity, diversity, and the strengthening of local communities.
For its part, PECO, the gala’s presenting sponsor, reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability, inclusion, and community development. David Vahos, President and CEO of the organization, emphasized the importance of supporting events that promote unity and leadership—values that lie at the heart of this celebration.
The gala was hosted by three renowned figures who filled the stage with energy and charisma: Wendy Regalado, Dominican Emmy Award–winning actress; Vanessa Caracoza, Deputy Executive Director of the City Commissioners Office and President of ALPFA Philadelphia; and Martín Alfaro, special projects consultant and President of NAHJ Philadelphia.
Ricardo Hurtado, President and CEO of Hispanic Media, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the Latino community and celebrated individual accomplishments while strengthening a collective sense of pride and belonging.
A Night of Unity and Latino Pride
Among the distinguished guests were María González, President of HACE; Joanna Otero-Cruz, CEO and President of Women Against Abuse; Darío Bellot, Vice President of Finance at KenCrest; Jenny Rafeh, CEO of South Philly Home Care and Executive Multiservices; Cynthia Figueroa, President and CEO of JEVS Human Services; Bruce Datil, owner of Allstate Insurance Agency; Monica Parrilla, entrepreneur and community advocate; State Representative Danilo Burgos; and Carlos Giraldo, President of Giraldo Real Estate Group.
As the evening came to a close—filled with embraces, music, and renewed promises to continue working toward a more inclusive future—it was clear that the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Month Gala is more than a tradition: it is a powerful reminder of the strength of Latino unity, culture, and talent. It is a celebration that honors the past, ignites the present, and projects a hopeful future.
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