Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves recognized at the Champion of Freedom Dinner
Costa Rica’s President Rodrigo Chaves received the Champion of Freedom award last Friday during a ceremony held in Miami, hosted by the Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom at Florida International University (FIU). The recognition was part of the second edition of the Champion of Freedom Dinner & Celebration, an event aimed at honoring individuals who have shown a consistent commitment to economic liberty, human rights, and democratic values.
Awardees from the business, political, and social sectors
In addition to President Chaves, other honorees included Fred Voccola, co-founder of the tech company Kaseya; Luis Amodio, CEO of construction firm OHLA; Marián de la Fuente, journalist and media executive; and Nadia Ferreira, international model and philanthropist.
A special tribute was also held in memory of former U.S. Congressman Lincoln Díaz-Balart, recognized posthumously for his efforts in promoting democracy across Latin America.
Global business and academic leaders in attendance
President Chaves was joined on stage by U.S. Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart, FIU officials such as university president Jeanette Núñez, and various representatives from academic and private sectors across the Americas. Notably, Javier Cárdenas Moreno, President and CEO of Rhino Equipment, attended the event as a special guest, representing the industrial sector.
The evening concluded with acknowledgments to sponsors and attendees, along with an announcement of a larger edition planned for 2026, aimed at further promoting democratic and economic values across the region.
