The Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute Annual Gala

Esperanza Award
The Celia Cruz Foundation | Celia Cruz

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  The Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute at Seton Hall University is honored to announce the Celia Cruz Foundation as the recipient of the 2026 Esperanza Award. Led by Grammy and Latin Grammy winner, Omer Pardillo Cid, Celia Cruz’s longtime manager, the foundation preserves Celia’s extraordinary legacy by supporting scholarships, investing in students and emerging artists, championing children’s causes, and strengthening communities through education, healthcare, business, and opportunity. The Esperanza Award recognizes individuals and organizations that embody hope, resilience, and service to others, and the Celia Cruz Foundation exemplifies those values through its lasting impact.

Magno Award
Ivan Tornos Chairman
President and CEO of Zimmer Biomet

Viva Award
Goya Foods, Inc.

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  The Viva Award celebrates philanthropy in action, recognizing organizations whose generosity creates lasting change and whose commitment to serving others inspires future generations. Few organizations embody that spirit more fully than Goya Foods.

  For decades, Goya has demonstrated that success is measured not only by business achievement but also by community impact. Through initiatives such as Goya Gives, the company has provided millions of pounds of food to families in need, delivered disaster relief during times of crisis, supported scholarships and educational opportunities, partnered with nonprofit organizations, championed veterans and first responders, promoted health and wellness initiatives, and invested in programs that celebrate and preserve Hispanic culture.

  The Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute is especially proud to recognize Goya because its legacy reflects the enduring values of Joseph and Carmen Ana Unanue: faith, family, hard work, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Those same principles remain at the heart of the Institute’s mission as it prepares the next generation of Latino leaders to serve their communities and create meaningful change. The 2026 Viva Award honors not only Goya’s extraordinary record of corporate philanthropy but also its lasting example of how purpose-driven leadership can transform lives and strengthen communities for generations to come.

Alumni Impact Award
Gregory "Goyo" Schipilliti, Cid International Director and Emerging Partnerships

Gema Shipilliti, Customer Vice President The Campbell's Company

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  We are proud to honor two extraordinary alumni and leaders, Gema Schipilliti, MBA (Class of 2013), and Gregory “Goyo” Schipilliti Cid (Class of 2019), whose unwavering commitment to the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute has transformed the lives of countless students.

  As Customer Vice President at The Campbell’s Company, Gema has distinguished herself as an innovative business leader while remaining deeply invested in mentoring and empowering the next generation. Goyo, International Director of Emerging Partnerships at DailyPay, has become a driving force for opportunity, using his platform and influence to connect students with resources, networks, and inspiration that extend far beyond the classroom.

  Together, they have gone above and beyond in service to the Institute’s mission. Whether championing fundraising initiatives, mentoring scholars, sharing their expertise with the broader Seton Hall community, or quietly ensuring that students and families experience the joy and warmth of the holiday season, their generosity reflects a profound belief in lifting others as they climb.

  Their leadership exemplifies the values of service, community, and excellence that define the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute. By investing their time, talent, and hearts into our students, Gema and Goyo have helped create opportunities that will resonate for generations.

  It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we celebrate their remarkable contributions at the 2026 Generaciones Gala at Cipriani Wall Street on October 16, 2026.