Cristina Saralegui to receive the NHFA 2010 Raul Julia Award for Excellence.

The National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts (NHFA) has named Cristina Saralegui as the recipient of its 2010 Raul Julia Award for Excellence. The Raul Julia Award is presented annually to the person or persons who most advance the mission of NHFA. Previous awardees include: Film Director Robert Rodriguez; Creator/Producer Roberto Orci; Film Director Patricia Riggen; Film Director Gregory Nava; ABC News Anchor Elizabeth Vargas; and TV Executive Producer Sandra Bullock.

“NHFA is the leading organization opening doors for the next generation of Latinos entering the entertainment industry as series regulars, film leads, writers, directors and producers,” said Saralegui. “I am honored to be recognized by this illustrious award named after the late, great and world renowned actor Raul Julia. I salute NHFA and their leadership over these last 14 years.”

Cristina Saralegui has been a media leader who challenged convention and brought education on AIDS, pregnancy, relationships, child rearing, immunization and countless other important health issues. Cristina created programming on national policy, pop culture, as well as international conflicts.

“Cristina is the first lady of Spanish-language TV, she has brought knowledge, comfort, understanding, compassion and aspiration to millions of Latinos world-wide,” said Felix Sanchez, Chairman and Co-founder of the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts. “Cristina’s use of media has been revolutionary and it exemplifies NHFA’s mission to portray Latinos in a three-dimensional and contemporary manner.”

NHFA will hold its annual Noche de Gala on Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at the Renaissance Mayflower Hotel. The Gala will be hosted by Jimmy Smits, Esai Morales, Merel Julia and Felix Sanchez. Ford Motor Company is the Dinner Underwriter; The Nielsen Company is the Dinner Co-Underwriter.