Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring New Jersey’s Hispanic Trailblazers

National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, offers a vital moment to recognize the rich cultural legacies and achievements of Hispanic Americans. In New Jersey, a vibrant tapestry of educators, civic leaders, judges, and organizers has shaped our communities—and continues to inspire tomorrow’s changemakers.

Spotlight on Season 6 of ¿Qué Pasa NJ? with Carlos Medina on PBS

NJ PBS's ¿Qué Pasa NJ? with Carlos Medina, now in its sixth season, continues to elevate the stories of New Jersey’s Hispanic voices—bringing culture, entrepreneurship, and legacy into local living rooms. 

• Season 6 Episode 1 (aired March 8, 2025): Features Venezuelan chef Alejandro Ferrer of Cavany Foods, real estate entrepreneur and content creator Isamar Batista-Avery, and actor Berto Colón from Netflix's The Night Agent.

Leaders Making an Impact

• Dr. Gloria Bonilla-Santiago (Rutgers–Camden): A pioneering academic and advocate, she founded the LEAP Academy University Charter School in Camden—the first new school in three decades. Her innovative merit-based pay system for teachers has set a benchmark in educational reform.Wikipedia

• Maria Vizcarrondo-De Soto: Breaking glass ceilings, she became the first Latina President and CEO of the United Way of Essex and West Hudson—shaping social impact programming and youth leadership across the region.Wikipedia

• Judge Esther Salas: From Union City roots to the federal bench, she made history as the first Hispanic woman to serve as both a U.S. Magistrate Judge and District Judge for New Jersey. Her journey exemplifies resilience, service, and representation. Source:Wikipedia

Civic Visionaries & Oral Histories

New Jersey's Latino Heritage is rooted in legacy and lived experience. Projects like the New Jersey Latino History Project and the Latino Life Stories archive at the Newark Public Library preserve these narratives—from activists to educators to first-generation leaders—building a collective memory through oral history. Source: Rutgers Latino StudiesNewark Public Library

Policy & Civic Leadership

• Senator Teresa Ruiz of Newark has made history as the first Latina Majority Leader of the New Jersey Senate, marking a milestone in state government leadership. Source:Wikipedia

• Figures like Bob Menendez, Vincent Prieto, Wilda Diaz, and Luis Quintana have long shaped New Jersey's political landscape with vision and public service. Source:Observer

Community Champions

In Camden County, the Board of Commissioners recently honored 13 prominent Hispanic citizens for their community contributions—including Adelaida Colon, a regional public affairs leader, and Carmen G. Rodriguez, an influential educator and former county executive superintendent. Source:Camden County, NJ

New Jersey is home to a Latino population that represents over 21% of the state’s residents—about 2 million people, with 120,000 Hispanic-owned businesses and a 20% Hispanic workforce.Source: Wikipedia

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