Honorees of the The Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication Gala

The Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication (CHMC) announces that Tito Puente Jr. will be awarded the Tlamatini Award, Carlos Carrasco will be awarded the Circle of Excellence Award in Acting, Enrique Bermúdez will be awarded the Circle of Excellence Award in Communication and Cuevas-Diaz will be awarded the Circle of Excellence Award in Advocacy at their 20th Anniversary Gala.

Presented annually by the CHMC, the Tlamatini Award is a prestigious award given to outstanding contributors in the Hispanic community. The term “Tlamatini,” derived from the ancestral Náhuatl language, translates to “Wise Man.” In Latin America, it was used to identify the ‘master’ who created, interpreted knowledge, and guided every individual in their community to discover their life’s purpose. The Tlamatini Award was established at Florida State University in 2013 by a group of Hispanic academics to honor the lifetime accomplishments of remarkable Hispanics.

Tito Puente Jr.’s selection for the Tlamatini Award is a testament to his significant musical contributions as a Latin percussionist, songwriter, and producer. Carrying forward the legacy of his father, Tito Puente, also known as “El Rey del Timbal,” Tito Puente Jr. has introduced salsa and Latin jazz to new audiences, preserving the cultural heritage of his Puerto Rican roots through his music. This year, he is commemorating 20 years of transferring his father’s legacy to the next generations.

“Tito Puente Jr. honors the rich tradition of Latin music in everything he does, representing the best of our Hispanic community,” said Dr. Sindy Chapa, Director of the Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication. “This award truly shows the positive impact he has made on our Latin music scene.”

The Circle of Excellence Award in Acting is a distinguished award given to outstanding performers in the film industry. Carrasco’s tenure as a Broadway actor and appearances in major blockbuster films such as “Speed,” “Blood In Blood Out,” and “Parker” were critical factors in his selection. Carrasco, originally from Panama City, Panama, is also an award-winning director and producer.

“Carlos Carrasco has set the standard for success in performance and serves as an exemplary member of our society,” said Dr. Sindy Chapa, Director of the Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication. “This award is a testament to his unparalleled expertise and his positive impact on the Hispanic community.”

“Not only am I honored by this recognition, but I’m particularly moved that it comes from the Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication,” said Carrasco. “As someone who has also been a Latino market voiceover and on-camera actor, I know that the work being done at FSU is critical to preparing a new generation of professional change agents who care deeply about Latino representation.”

The Circle of Excellence Award in Communication is a prestigious recognition given to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding work in the field of communication. This award honors individuals, teams, and organizations that demonstrate excellence in communication practices. This year, the CHMC proudly acknowledges the exceptional career of Enrique Bermúdez de la Serna, affectionately known as “El Perro” Bermúdez.

Bermúdez is a legendary figure in Latin sports commentary who has captivated audiences with his dynamic and passionate broadcasting style. He is an iconic sports commentator and narrator in sports media, particularly in soccer (fútbol). With a career spanning several decades, his distinctive voice and enthusiastic commentary have brought sporting events to life, such as the Mexican League, the World Cup, and the Copa América, making them more engaging and accessible to fans worldwide.

“Enrique Bermúdez’s ability to connect with an audience and convey the excitement of a game doesn’t go unnoticed,” said Dr. Sindy Chapa, Director of the CHMC. “His contributions to sports communication have set high standards in the industry and exemplify the values we celebrate with the Circle of Excellence Award in Communication.”

The Circle of Excellence Award in Advocacy is a prestigious recognition given to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements and leadership in advocacy. This award acknowledges those who have made significant contributions to advancing causes, raising awareness, and implementing effective advocacy strategies. Vivian de las Cuevas-Diaz, an FSU alumna, is the first Latina to be appointed to the Florida State University Board of Trustees. As an accomplished attorney and partner in the Miami office of Holland & Knight, Ms. de las Cuevas-Diaz brings a wealth of real estate expertise. Her exceptional work dedicated to public services and community advocacy exemplifies the values recognized by the Circle of Excellence Award in Advocacy.

“Vivian de las Cuevas-Diaz embodies the qualities of leadership, dedication, and excellence within the community and beyond her involvements within society,” said Dr. Sindy Chapa, Director of the CHMC. “We are honored to recognize her positive contributions, influence, and impact on the Hispanic community.”

At Holland & Knight, Ms. de las Cuevas-Diaz serves as the deputy section leader of Holland & Knight’s Real Estate Section, which is one of the largest real estate departments of any law firm in the United States. She is also a past president of the Cuban American Bar Association and a member of the Florida Federal Judicial Nominating Commission for the Southern District.

They will be honored at the 20th Anniversary Gala on October 11, 2024. The event will be held at Florida State University’s Alumni Center at 6:00 PM EST. The upcoming event is a special occasion celebrating the CHMC’s 20 years of service and achievements since its inception. It also honors the best talent of the Hispanic community and provides the foundation for future generations of Hispanic marketing and communication professionals.

Tickets for the 20th Anniversary Gala can be purchased at https://one.fsu.edu/foundation/event-registration/2024/hispanic-marketing-20th-year-anniversary-gala.