The sold-out South Florida luncheon honored 13 distinguished women and recognized Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosanna “Rosie” Cordero-Stutz as the 2026 Latina Pioneer of the Year
Hispanic Women of Distinction marked its 25th anniversary on Friday, August 21, with a sold-out celebration at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. The milestone Charity Awards Luncheon and Business Expo brought together nearly 1,000 guests to recognize the leadership, perseverance and community contributions of Latina women throughout South Florida.
The 2026 program honored 13 women selected from more than 60 nominations submitted across Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Their accomplishments span medicine, business, public service, nonprofit leadership and community advocacy, illustrating the expanding role Latina leaders continue to play in shaping the region.
Elected officials, diplomatic and consular representatives, business executives, community leaders and past honorees joined the celebration. The sold-out gathering reflected both the strength of the program and the growing importance of ensuring that Latina achievements are recognized publicly.
The event also served as a reminder that representation matters. When young women see leaders who share their language, cultural heritage and lived experiences, professional ambitions can feel more attainable.
A 25-Year Mission That Became a Movement
Hispanic Women of Distinction was founded in 2001 by the late Dr. Erwin M. Vasquez, a Venezuelan cardiologist, philanthropist and publisher of El Heraldo de Broward, a pioneering Spanish-language newspaper.
His vision was to establish a platform that would recognize the influence and accomplishments of Latina women while helping create opportunities for future generations. Twenty-five years later, that mission has grown into one of South Florida’s most established celebrations of Hispanic women’s leadership.
“We have built much more than an awards program; we have created a movement,” said Elaine Miceli Vasquez, co-founder and producer of the event. “The next generation is watching us. Today, young girls can see themselves reflected in women who speak their language, honor their culture and show them that no dream is beyond their reach.”
The celebration began with a reception featuring music by Mariachi Voces de America. Guests also explored the business expo, participated in raffles and supported a silent auction before entering the ballroom for the awards luncheon.
The program incorporated South Florida’s cultural traditions through music, dance and the annual procession of women honored by Hispanic Women of Distinction since 2001. Performers from Carnaval de Barranquilla Miami led the procession, bringing color, energy and cultural pride to the milestone celebration.
The emphasis on visibility echoed other regional efforts to recognize women’s contributions. Calle Ocho News recently highlighted eight women helping shape Miami’s future and previously covered a South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce luncheon honoring remarkable women.
Celebrating 13 Honorees and a Historic Latina Pioneer
The 2026 Hispanic Women of Distinction were Jacqueline Ceballos, Maria Jose Haimovitch, Michelle Harper, Alex Llerena, Martha Guerra-Kattou, Janet Lorenzo-Garcia, Griselle Marino, Dr. h.c., Cristina Martinez-Gonzalez, Maria C. Mejia, M.D., Maria Alejandra Membreno, Michelle “Mish” Pelaez, Nercy Barroso Radcliffe and Soraya Rivera-Moya.
Although each honoree followed a different path, they share a commitment to professional excellence, service and improving the lives of others. Collectively, their stories demonstrate how Latina leadership is influencing nearly every sector of South Florida.
One of the luncheon’s defining moments was the recognition of Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosanna “Rosie” Cordero-Stutz as the 2026 Latina Pioneer of the Year. With more than 30 years of law-enforcement experience, Cordero-Stutz is the first Hispanic woman to serve as sheriff in Florida history.
Her recognition carried broader significance for women pursuing leadership roles in law enforcement and public service. It also underscored the importance of acknowledging pioneers who create opportunities for those who follow.
The American Lung Association was selected as the event’s 2026 nonprofit beneficiary. Funds generated through the silent auction, raffles, sponsorships and advertising will support efforts to improve lung health, prevent respiratory disease and promote cleaner air.
The anniversary celebration was presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. Latina Style Magazine, Nicklaus Children’s Health System, Latin Business Today and more than 40 corporate and media sponsors also supported the event.
After 25 years, Hispanic Women of Distinction represents more than an annual luncheon. It has become a multigenerational platform for preserving women’s stories, celebrating Hispanic identity and showing future leaders what is possible.
Readers can explore more stories about the people influencing the region through Calle Ocho News’ People of Miami coverage. For information about the awards program, visit Hispanic Women of Distinction.
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