10/12/2026
It's was an honor to be a part of this event recognizing Latino leaders in northwest Louisiana!
LATINO LEADERSHIP AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS 2026
An Evening of Recognition, Education, and Hispanic Pride
Since 2007, the Hispanic Heritage Association of LA (HHA) has proudly hosted this event to recognize Hispanic individuals who are making a lasting impact in our community. In 2021, we introduced our scholarship program, through which we have awarded more than $70,000 to students of Hispanic heritage.
This event is made possible through the dedication of our Board of Directors, committee chairs, members, and volunteers, who generously contribute their time, talent, and efforts to celebrate Hispanic achievements, strengthen our community, and continue moving the Hispanic community forward.
On Saturday, October 10, 2026, more than 320 guests joined us at Bally’s Shreveport to celebrate 17 scholarship recipients and 10 outstanding Latino leaders.
MASTERS OF CEREMONIES: Fernanda Hernández (KTAL) and Juan “Meño” Yáñez (El Show del Meño), who did an outstanding job hosting this special evening.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: Under the leadership of Lorelí López and her committee, $21,500 in scholarships were awarded to 17 students this year.
2026 Scholarship Recipients: Samantha Arellano Gutiérrez ($2,500), Mercedes Sáenz Martínez ($2,000), Xavier Orellana ($2,000), Elisa Ceballos ($1,500), Madeleine Mejía ($1,500), Ivonne Campos ($1,000), Emilio Orellana ($1,000), Beatriz Hernández ($1,000), Leslie Ovalle ($1,000), Alessandra Coneo ($1,000), Izabella Moreno ($1,000), Luis Núñez González ($1,000), Fernando Longoria ($1,000), Felizia Moreno ($1,000), Jocelyne Sands ($1,000), Ethan Sands ($1,000), and Francisco Moreno ($1,000).
GUEST SPEAKERS: José Sánchez of José Sánchez Law Firm delivered an insightful message highlighting the contributions and lasting impact of Latinos in our society. Mario Chávez of MersaTech shared a heartfelt message with the students, emphasizing the importance of family, values, cultural roots, and the many opportunities Northwest Louisiana offers for everyone to grow, succeed, and build a brighter future.
2026 LATINO LEADERSHIP AWARD HONOREES: Alethia Smith, Edgar Cano, Carlos Gutiérrez, Jay Sifuentes, Julián Balvin, Lina Pérez, Mario Chávez, Raúl Esquivel, René Islas, and Rodrigo Salazar.
The awards were proudly presented by Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry L. Whitehorn, Sr.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR MEDIA PARTNERS: 318 Latino and KTAL for their outstanding support, dedication, and commitment to highlighting Hispanic achievements and sharing our community’s stories.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: The Varela Brothers provided live music during the gala, followed by Frequenzia Band, who brought energy and excitement to the official after-party.
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Our sincere appreciation goes to Bally’s Shreveport Casino & Hotel for their exceptional partnership and support before, during, and after the event.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, scholarship donors, table and ticket purchasers, volunteers, and everyone whose generosity and commitment helped make this celebration possible.
We were also honored by the presence of State Senator Sam L. Jenkins, Jr., Mayor Tom Arceneaux, Sheriff Henry L. Whitehorn, Sr., and other distinguished public officials and community leaders.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the talent, educational achievements, and leadership of our Hispanic community!
Together, we continue to celebrate our heritage, create opportunities, and build a stronger future for generations to come.
Hispanic Heritage Association of LA (HHA)
