Florida State University’s Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication Honors Celia
Cruz’s Centennial with Rosa Marquetti’s Book Presentation
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — On October 16th, the Florida State University community gathered at
the student union to celebrate a truly unforgettable afternoon – the 100th birthday of the legendary
“Queen of salsa,” Celia Cruz. The event, hosted by the Center for Hispanic Marketing
Communication in honor of Hispanic and Latin American Heritage month, featured Cuban scholar,
music historian, and author Rosa Marquetti, who presented the second edition of her acclaimed
book Celia en Cuba.
The presentation aimed to highlight Rosa Marquetti’s remarkable work while honoring Celia
Cruz’s Legacy, her strength, and the rhythm that continues to inspire generations. The event was
a perfect reflection of FSU’s multicultural spirit, allowing students, faculty, and staff to explore
the vibrant connection between music, culture, and identity.
During the event, Rosa transported the audience back to the 20th century in Cuba, a world where
Afro-Cuban artists face censorship, racial barriers, and the struggle for creative freedom. She
explained how political, economic, and social tensions silenced many artists, especially women
and Black Afro-descendant musicians. Through her research and storytelling, she revealed how
Celia Cruz courageously defied these limits to rise as one of the most iconic voices in music
history.
Sofia Otto, a graduate student in Media and Communication Studies and the event host, described
the moment perfectly:
“Rosa’s words were magical,” Sofia shared. “She knows so much about Celia Cruz [such
as] the love, the music, and the culture they share. Listening to Rosa speak felt like reliving
every scene of Celia’s life. I could feel Celia glowing behind her, as if she were still there
with us.”
The presentation was moderated by Flor del Cielo, an expert in music therapy from Puerto Rico,
who has a deep connection to Latin music and culture; she beautifully complemented Rosa’s message. Together, they created an afternoon filled with passion, rhythm, and the warmth of shared
heritage.
About Rosa Marquetti
An incredible Cuban woman with a deep love for music and history, Rosa has dedicated her life
to uncovering the stories behind the melodies. A graduate in philosophy from the University of
Havana, she has spent decades researching Afro-Cuban music, the hidden struggles of artists, and
the cultural power of sound. Her passion lives through her books and also through her blog
Desmemorizados, where she continues to document the forgotten histories of Cuban music and the
challenges of artists silenced by censorship.
About the book – Celia en Cuba:
In Celia en Cuba, Rosa Marquetti brings readers into the heart of Celia Cruz’s early years in Cuba.
This was a time when the music industry was dominated by men and shadowed by discrimination.
Through meticulous research and heartfelt writing, she portrays how Celia found her voice, defined
expectations, and conquered the impossible.
Rosa shared one of her most powerful reflections during the event:
“I believe hard work is what takes you to your goals. That’s how Celia did it, and that’s
how I am doing it. Always try new things; never fear learning more because that’s how we
grow. It may be laborious, but if that’s what it takes to reach your dream, do it for yourself
and for your culture. Always embrace who you are because that’s where you belong.”
This magical afternoon, FSU celebrated a centennial milestone and the spirit of two extraordinary
women, Celia Cruz and Rosa Marquetti, both driven by rhythm, culture, and an undying passion
for their roots.
Written by: Jenny Cen