‘Una Noche En Blanco’ To Celebrates Hispanic Excellence in Atlantic County on July 17
Image courtesy of Hispanic Association of Atlantic County
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Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, Local Labor Leader Maria Lugo Among Honorees
AC JosepH Media
ATLANTIC CITY — The Hispanic Association of Atlantic County will honor more than a dozen community leaders, businesses and organizations at its 2026 Nuestro Pueblo Awards on Friday, July 17.
The awards, one of HAAC’s signature events, is taking place as an elegant ‘Una Noche En Blanco’ all-white attire celebration from 6-10 p.m. at Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City.
‘The Nuestro Pueblo Awards represent the heart and soul of our community. Una Noche En Blanco is more than a celebration—it is a tribute to the resilience, achievements, and cultural pride of our Latino community,” said Adalberto “Bert” Lopez, president of the Hispanic Association of Atlantic County.
“We invite everyone to join us in honoring these extraordinary individuals while investing in the future of our youth,”
This year’s Nuestro Pueblo Awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations
whose dedication, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on the community:
Arts & Entertainment Icon – Yelixza Figueroa: A self-taught muralist and artist whose work inspires creativity, cultural pride, and community connection through public art and inclusive events.
Emerging Impact – Alexander Mendoza (El Pueblo Unido): A passionate advocate for civic engagement and social justice who empowers Latino families and students through education and organizing.
Community Spirit – Carmen Torres (Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City): A leader with over two decades of service dedicated to uplifting youth and strengthening families through advocacy and mentorship.
Education Excellence – Zoaennette Molina (Atlantic City Board of Education): A bilingual instructional leader committed to advancing equity, innovation, and academic success for diverse learners.
Entrepreneurship Visionary – Rafael Maldonado (City Wide Towing): A respected business owner whose entrepreneurial success is matched by deep community involvement and generosity.
HAAC Distinguished Service – Ivenny Lopez (AtlantiCare) and Lynette Morales (Unite Here Health): Two dedicated leaders whose behind-the-scenes commitment and hands-on service have been instrumental to HAAC’s growth and success.
Healthcare Leader – Javier Guzman (AtlantiCare): A champion for culturally responsive mental health services, improving access and trust within the Latino community.
Innovation Pioneer – Emilio Melendez (Atlantic City Electric): A STEM leader advancing infrastructure innovation while mentoring and inspiring future Hispanic professionals.
Labor Impact – Maria Lugo (UNITE HERE Local 54): A lifelong advocate for workers’ rights whose secades of service have strengthened protections and opportunities for working families.
Nuestro Amigo/a – Christina Reynolds (AtlantiCare) and Greg Freelon (Coastal Cousins Heritage Gardens): Community allies committed to service.
Nuestro Amigo Organizational – Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA):
Recognized for organizational efforts supporting community growth and opportunity.
Public Service Impact – Det. Estefania Giraldo (Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office) and Battalion Chief Abel Figueroa Jr. (Atlantic City Fire Department): Distinguished public
servants dedicated to safety, advocacy, and community protection.
This event honors Latino achievement while celebrating the richness of Hispanic cultural heritage throughout Atlantic County. Guests will enjoy an evening of cocktail hour, live music, an inspiring awards ceremony, dinner, and dancing, all in support of the HAAC Scholarship Fund and youth programming.
Tickets are available for $80, and attendees are encouraged to wear all-white attire as part of the ‘Noche En Blanco’ theme. To purchase tickets, visit www.haacnj.org/nuestropueblo.
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