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The Alegría Ball is the chamber’s signature fundraising event benefiting various core chamber programs that provide critical support to emerging Latino business owners in the region.

​The Alegría Ball features the annual Excelencia Hispanic ​Business Awards celebrating the growth and success of Latino-owned businesses and Latino​ professionals in the region by identifying those which have set themselves apart through their outstanding achievements and contributions. 
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​IMAGES FROM
​2019 ALEGRÍA BALL
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2019 Award Honorees 
Excelencia Hispanic Business Awards
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Keystone Award
​The Honorable Judge Nelson Díaz 
A Latino of many firsts, Judge Díaz became the first Latino to be admitted to the PA Bar Association and, later, the first Latino judge in the Commonwealth. He was the first non-white General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Judge Díaz has been a leading figure in the establishment of the White House’s Latino Office, the founding of the National Puerto Rican Coalition and various local organizations. He was also chair of the DNC Hispanic Caucus.

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Hispanic Business of the Year
Marquis & Co 
This year’s awardee is the parent company of a restaurant group that includes the rapidly expanding, fast-casual chain, Hip City Veg; the popular Bar Bombón; and Charlie Was a Sinner. Nicole Marquis, the founder, has a vision of improving the perception of vegan food by showing people how hearty it can be. The motto, “Eat well. Feel Good” embraces healthy bodies, a healthy planet, and compassion for all living things. ​

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Hispanic Professional of the Year
Dr. Damián Fernández, Chancellor of Penn State, Abington 
Dr. Fernández is among the four percent of Latinos who lead colleges and universities across the country, overseeing 4,000 students at Penn State, Abington. He holds a Ph.D. in International Relations from the University of Miami, a Master of Arts in Latin American Studies from the University of Florida, and a Bachelor of Arts from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University. ​

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GPHCC thanks the following sponsors for their generous support!

Official Media Partners of Alegría Ball

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MORE ABOUT ALEGRIA BALL & THE EXCELENCIA AWARDS
​The Alegría Ball brings together people of varied ethnic, professional, business and geographical backgrounds to achieve a common goal -- support of local Hispanic business development and educational programs provided by the GPHCC. ​The proceeds give much valued assistance to the Small Business Development and Education Program at  GPHCC offering workshops, seminars, minority business services, technical assistance and business development opportunities for Latino businesses and entrepreneurs across the region. 
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​EVENT & PRESS LEAD CONTACT
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​Javier Suarez
VP, Strategic Partnerships
jsuarez@philahispanicchamber.org 
​W: 215-845-5452 | C: 267-979-3297

DOWNLOAD OFFICIAL 2019 PRESS RELEASE

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