As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) is set to convene lawmakers, diplomats, and business leaders for its 22nd Annual Gala and Leadership Awards on May 13 at the Waldorf Astoria.
Held under the theme “Mosaic of Voices, Celebrating 250 Years of Vision, Culture, and Contributions,” the event will spotlight the role Hispanics have played in shaping the country’s history while emphasizing the importance of leadership development and civic participation moving forward.
The annual gala serves as a gathering point for leaders across sectors and political perspectives, reflecting CHLI’s focus on bipartisan engagement and dialogue. The organization - founded in 2003 by the late Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart and now Chaired by former congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen - has worked to connect emerging Hispanic leaders with opportunities in public service, business, and policy.
Among those being honored is Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa Azin, who will receive the Founders International Leadership Award for his efforts to advance democratic governance and economic opportunity in the region.
On the domestic front, U.S. Representatives Gil Cisneros (D-CA.) and Monica De La Cruz (R-TX) will receive the Leadership in Public Service Award, highlighting the organization’s bipartisan approach at a time when cross-party collaboration remains a focus in Washington.
The gala will also recognize Sara Garcia, a 2018 CHLI alumna who now works at the U.S. Department of the Interior, with the Ambassador Award, reflecting the organization’s emphasis on developing the next generation of leaders in public service.
Last year, CHLI honored Secretary of State Marco Rubio (the first Hispanic US Secretary of State) the President of the Dominican Republic, and U.S. Representatives María Elvira Salazar and Juan Vargas.
Over the past two decades, CHLI has supported more than 300 alumni who have gone on to careers in government, the private sector, and nonprofit organizations. Its programs emphasize not only professional growth, but also the ability to engage with diverse perspectives and navigate complex policy environments.
The theme “Mosaic of Voices” reflects that approach, highlighting how different experiences and viewpoints contribute to a broader national narrative throughout the past 250 years. The organization places particular emphasis on diversity of thought, encouraging dialogue across differences as a way to strengthen leadership and civic institutions.
As the country prepares to mark 250 years since its founding, the event offers an opportunity to reflect on past contributions while focusing on the leaders shaping its future.
The GALA counts on sponsors like The Coca-Cola Company, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Comcast among others.
