Washington, D.C., May 7, 2025 – The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) hosted its 21st Annual Gala and Leadership Awards: Illuminating Futures at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel. The event brought together prominent leaders from the public and private sectors, including Javier Cárdenas, President and CEO of Rhino Equipment.
Honoring Global and National Leaders
This year’s awards recognized individuals making a powerful impact in the Hispanic community:
Luis Abinader, President of the Dominican Republic, received the CHLI Founders International Leadership Award.
Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, was honored with the CHLI Lifetime Leadership Award.
U.S. Representatives Maria Elvira Salazar and Juan Vargas earned the CHLI Leadership in Public Service Award.
Keith Fernandez, former CHLI Alumni Association president, received the CHLI Ambassador Award.
Each award celebrated leadership, service, and dedication to Hispanic advancement in the U.S. and abroad.
Mission and Values
CHLI Chairwoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen emphasized the values of the organization—leadership, community, and diversity of thought. “We are proud to celebrate individuals who reflect these principles and work tirelessly for the Hispanic community,” she stated.
Strong Corporate Support
The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of major sponsors, including Comcast NBC Universal, Telemundo, Capital One, Altria Client Services, Amazon, American Airlines, Haleon, T-Mobile, and Wells Fargo.
