Abrazo Boricua in New York

Abrazo Boricua in New York|Abrazo Boricua in New York|Abrazo Boricua in New York|Abrazo Boricua in New York
Photo by Miriam Quin|Photo by Miriam Quin|Photo by Miriam Quin|Photo by Miriam Quin

On Thursday, June 11, the Abrazo Boricua in New York was held at Maestro’s and featured mayors, dignitaries, and community leaders who traveled from Puerto Rico to join a crowd of more than 500 people. The event was coordinated by Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr., Assemblyman Marcos Crespo, Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda, and Assemblyman Michael Blake. This annual celebration which serves as a prelude to the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, recognizes the many contributions made by the Puerto Rican community in the development of New York City. This year’s edition was dedicated to Dr. Richardo Rossello, PhD in Biomedical Engineering; Jose Perez, Mastermind Ltd. chairman and chief executive officer; Dr. Rosa Gil, Comunilife, Inc. founder and president; and Maria Del Pilar Avila, New America Alliance, chief executive officer – four distinguished community members from New York and in Puerto Rico.

Maria Del Pilar Avila was presented a 2015 Merit Award during last Thursday’s event.
Photo by Miriam Quin

Dr. Rosa Gil’s contributions were recognized during Abrazo Boricua in New York.
Photo by Miriam Quin

Honoree Dr. Richardo Rossello stands with Nelly Gonzalez, Manhattan Community Board 4 assistant district manager.
Photo by Miriam Quin