Florida State University’s Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication Hosts Fundraising Dinner Celebrating 100 Years of Celia Cruz.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication at Florida State University hosted its annual fundraising dinner in collaboration with the Celia Cruz Foundation and FSU’s Department of Student Engagement. The event brought together students, faculty, alumni, and industry professionals for an evening of connection, culture, and celebration.
Guests enjoyed great food, live music from FSU College of Music students and an exciting silent auction featuring local art, sports memorabilia and exclusive experiences donated by community supporters. The night not only served as a fundraising opportunity but also strengthened the bonds within the Center’s vibrant community.
A highlight of the evening was the Mentorship Induction Ceremony, in which mentors honored their mentees with a gold graduation stool before the audience. Arminda Figueroa, the outgoing Chair of the Center’s Advisory Board, shared heartfelt remarks as she passed the torch to Erika Gianni, the new Chair of the CHMC Advisory Board. Their words reflected the Center’s mission to empower the next generation of marketers through leadership and guidance.
The dinner also featured special guest Rosa Marquetti. She is the official biographer of Celia Cruz and representative of the Celia Cruz Foundation. Visiting from Madrid, Spain, Marquetti delivered an inspiring speech celebrating Cruz’s enduring legacy and impact on Latin music and culture.
“Author Rosa Marquetti is such an inspiring woman, I feel so lucky to have met her,” said Andrea Sacasa, an undergraduate advertising student in the FSU School of Communication. “The dinner could not have gone better.”
All funds raised during the event will directly support student scholarships, research, and professional development opportunities within the Center. These contributions ensure that students continue to benefit from meaningful mentorship, hands-on experiences, and resources to thrive in the growing field of Hispanic marketing communication.
“This event reminds us that the Center is more than just an academic program, es familia,” said Dr. Sindy Chapa, Director of the Center. “The generosity and passion of our sponsors and community continue to inspire our students and drive our mission forward.”
About the Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication:
Founded in 2004 by Dr. Felipe Korzenny, the CHMC is the first program in the United States dedicated to teaching students about research within the Hispanic market. Over the last 20 years, the CHMC has grown into a nationally recognized program that remains devoted to acknowledging the influence and importance of U.S. Hispanic marketing and advertising.
Written by : Melany Sarcevic
