The Catholic Foundation of Central Florida proudly sponsored the Don Quijote Awards, December 9th at Epcot. These awards recognize successful businesses and individuals who have demonstrated qualities exemplified by literary character. Don Quijote: was a visionary and courageous dreamers who have taken risks to achieve their goals and improve Central Florida. The Don Quijote Awards are also the premier business and professional recognition for the Hispanic business community in Central Florida. Congratulations to all the award winners and honorees!
Finalists and honorees for the 2023 Don Quijote Awards (in alphabetical order per category):
HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR, FIVE YEARS OR LESS: • BOLD Hispanic Marketing Agency, represented by its owner, Ana Carolina Salazar • Hispanic Insurance Specialists, LLC, represented by its owner Luis Vargas • Wintermere Pointe Animal Hospital, represented by its owner Dr. Pedro Santiago
HISPANIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR, MORE THAN FIVE YEARS: • CG Dentist Orlando, represented by its owners Dr. Carlos Gurreonero and Dr. Susan Cruzalegui • Competitive Edge Partners & Consulting, represented by its owner Debbie Rodriguez • Mecatos Bakery and Café, represented by its owner Edwin Lurduy
PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR: • Dr. Cyndia Muñiz, Senior Director of Hispanic Serving Institution Initiatives and Partnerships at the University of Central Florida • Diahann Smith, Director of Marketing and Business Development Communications at Florida Dairy Farmers • Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, Executive Director at Hope CommUnity Center
EXCELLENCE AWARD: • Dr. Isis Artze-Vega, College Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs at Valencia College • Melissa Marantes, Executive Director, and co-founder of Orlando Center for Justice • Dr. Maria Vázquez, Orange County Public Schools Superintendent