CHLI News

The Evening of Gratitude was a success! Thank you for your support of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) programs.

CHLI Founder & Chairman, The Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart started the program by thanking everyone for the support this year. In light of the pandemic, we recognized not only our honorees but also those who are bravely serving our country to keep us healthy and safe. The evening was dedicated to the doctors, nurses, first responders, farmworkers, mental health specialists, and teachers working on the front lines. We are grateful to you and your families.

The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) prepares, connects and honors leaders for their service. The global pandemic has altered the way we communicate, do business and celebrate. However, it is encouraging to see communities across our nation, and even around the world, coming together to support one another during this unprecedented global health crisis.

This year is CHLI’s 16th anniversary and in lieu of our traditional awards gala, we will come together to celebrate a virtual Evening of Gratitude on Wednesday, September 30th from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm Eastern. As with our traditional Gala, we will engage with Members of Congress, elected and appointed officials, civic, international and diplomatic leaders as well as Fortune 500 executives.

Recent news of COVID-19 has impacted us all in many ways, both large and small. Our hearts are with those who are struggling during this difficult time. We cannot express enough gratitude for all essential workers on the front lines of this pandemic who are working to keep our communities healthy, clean, and fed. We hope that you and your loved ones find yourselves safe.

Washington, D.C – The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) held its 15th Annual Gala & Leadership Awards on Wednesday, May 15, 2019, in Washington, DC. CHLI honored the Secretary-General of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, Congresswomen Nita Lowey and Kay Granger (Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee), and celebrated the life and legacy of CHLI Alumna Wendy Martinez.

As we wrap up Hispanic Heritage Month, we extend a heart filled thank you to one of CHLI’s key founders, Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.  Ileana Ros-Lehtinen was the first Hispanic woman ever elected to Congress. Having been born in Havana, Cuba, Ileana fled the oppressive Castro regime at the age of eight, with her family.