Thirteen women from across South Florida were honored for their contributions to medicine, business, public service, nonprofit leadership and community advocacy during the 25th Hispanic Women of Distinction celebration.
The sold-out luncheon was held Aug. 21 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. The honorees were selected from more than 60 nominations submitted across Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.
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. Vasquez envisioned a program that would recognize the accomplishments and influence of Latina women while creating opportunities for future generations.
“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 2026 Hispanic Women of Distinction were Jacqueline Ceballos, Maria Jose Haimovitch, Michelle Harper, Alex Llerena, Martha Guerra-Kattou, Janet Lorenzo-Garcia, Griselle Marino, Cristina Martinez-Gonzalez, Maria C. Mejia, Maria Alejandra Membreno, Michelle “Mish” Pelaez, Nercy Barroso Radcliffe and Soraya Rivera-Moya.
Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosanna “Rosie” Cordero-Stutz was recognized as the 2026 Latina Pioneer of the Year.
Cordero-Stutz has more than 30 years of law-enforcement experience and is the first Hispanic woman to serve as a sheriff in Florida history.
The luncheon began with a reception featuring music by Mariachi Voces de America. Guests also attended a business expo and participated in raffles and a silent auction.
The American Lung Association was selected as the event’s 2026 nonprofit beneficiary. Money generated through the silent auction, raffles, sponsorships and advertising will support programs focused on lung health, respiratory-disease prevention and cleaner air.
The program also celebrated South Florida’s cultural traditions through music, dance and the annual parade of former honorees. Performers from Carnaval de Barranquilla Miami led the procession of past Hispanic Women of Distinction honorees.
Myriam Masihy of NBC 6 and Telemundo 51 served as mistress of ceremonies for the 18th year.
Elected officials, diplomatic and consular representatives, business executives, community leaders and former honorees attended the milestone celebration.
Photo caption: The 2026 Hispanic Women of Distinction
Photo credit: Downtown Photo
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