A celebration of leadership, culture, and community impact hosted by the Mexican Cultural Center

Filadelfia, PA – On May 1, 2025, the Mexican Cultural Center (MCC) hosted the 3rd Annual Friends of Mexico Awards Luncheon at The Union League of Philadelphia, gathering leaders, cultural advocates, and supporters for a meaningful celebration of inclusion, service, and cross-cultural solidarity.

The event celebrated four remarkable honorees whose work embodies leadership, cultural engagement, and service to the community. Among them was Esperanza’s Founder and CEO, Rev. Luis Cortés, Jr., who received the Individual Impact Award in recognition of his lifelong commitment to empowering Latino communities. The Corporate Community Service Award was presented to The Campbell’s Company and accepted by Rebecca Gardy, Chief Investor Relations Officer, for the company’s dedication to corporate responsibility and community outreach. The Culture & Arts Access Award was given to the Delaware Art Museum, with Cultural Program Manager Iz Balleto accepting on behalf of the institution for its efforts to make the arts accessible to all. Finally, the Educational Pathways to Success Award was awarded to Villanova University, received by Eloise Berry, Assistant Vice President and Director of the Office of Belonging and Inclusion, for the university’s efforts to foster inclusive academic environments and expand educational opportunity.

Head Consul Carlos Obrador of the Mexican Consulate in Philadelphia presented the Individual Impact Award to Reverend Cortés, recognizing his decades of leadership in advancing opportunity and equity for Latino communities In his remarks, Reverend Cortés expressed deep gratitude to the Mexican Cultural Center, its Executive Director Yvette Compean, Director of Programs Virginia Rivera Hernández, Chairwoman Araceli Guenther, and all members of the MCC Board.

During his remarks, Rev. Cortés reflected on the historical ties between The Campbell’s Company and Philadelphia’s Latino communities, noting that the first two Spanish-speaking churches founded in the city—La Milagrosa Roman Catholic Church and Primera Iglesia Bautista—were established to serve the needs of The Campbell’s Company workers.

He also expressed his gratitude to Esperanza’s board members for their dedicated support, acknowledging those who were present at the event: Board Chair Rev. Bonnie Camarda, incoming Chair Martin Droz, and members Carolina DiGiorgio, Josué Figueroa, and William Smith.

Touching on themes of justice, democracy, and equity, Reverend Cortés delivered a message of hope, emphasizing that the future of the United States will be shaped by its diverse communities—Latinos, African Americans, and Asians. “We will lead this nation,” he affirmed, calling on those present to continue creating ripples of change that will strengthen the foundation of our future democracy.

This idea of the «ripple effect» was a unifying thread throughout the event. Rebecca Gardy reminded attendees that inclusion often begins not with grand gestures, but with small acts—a shared story, a smile, a culture celebrated. “These aren’t just community members,” she said. “They are community makers.”

Iz Balleto echoed that sentiment, stating, “Inclusion is not a checkbox, it’s a heartbeat.” The luncheon honored those who, through art, education, and advocacy, build bridges where others see barriers.

The MCC’s commitment to promoting Mexican heritage and fostering cross-cultural understanding was evident throughout the program. Founded in 1994, the Mexican Cultural Center serves as a vital connector for individuals, institutions, and communities interested in Mexican history, art, and commerce.

The luncheon was made possible with the support of sponsors and partners including Bimbo, Goya, The Campbell’s Company, Highmark, Asian Bank, Villanova University, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Solow, Hartnett and Galvan Immigration Law.

As the event concluded, attendees left inspired to continue turning ripples of transformation into powerful waves—impacting Philadelphia and communities beyond.