39th Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Awards Gala
As Chair of the Ohio Commission on Hispanic/Latino Affairs (OCHLA), leadership shapes this annual celebration into a powerful platform that elevates statewide representation and honors meaningful public service. Overseeing the selection process and event organization ensures the Commission fulfills its vital responsibility to recognize transformative leaders. By guiding the vision for honoring recipients across the Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Award, the Military Service of Distinction Award, and the Nuestra Familia Award, the Chair champions the achievements of inspiring professionals, dedicated veterans, and non-Hispanic allies who foster thriving communities across Ohio. Beyond celebrating individual merit, the Chair’s stewardship leverages the ceremony to raise essential scholarship funds for Latino students, strengthening unity, empowering future generations, and reinforcing the Commission’s mission to advance the public good.
Each year, the Latino Affairs Commission honors exceptional individuals and organizations whose leadership and service strive to improve the lives of Ohio’s Latino community for the advancement of the public good.
The Distinguished Hispanic Ohioan Award celebrates individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional achievements in their professional or community endeavors and who serve as inspiring models across the state.
The Military Service of Distinction Award honors Latinos in uniform who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and continue to serve their communities with distinction.
The Nuestra Familia (Our Family) Award recognizes non-Hispanic individuals or organizations that work alongside the Latino community to help Ohio’s communities thrive.