Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month September 15 to October 15

Andrea Baird

9/19/20253 min read

Honoring National Hispanic Heritage Month: A Celebration of Impact, Culture, and Progress

Every year, from September 15 to October 15, the United States observes National Hispanic Heritage Month. This is a time to recognize the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose roots trace to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

This month isn’t just about reflection. It’s about recognizing how the Hispanic community is actively shaping the future of our country, especially in business, innovation, civic leadership, and economic growth.

🔹 Driving the U.S. Economy Forward

Hispanic Americans are one of the most economically active and entrepreneurial demographics in the U.S. today:

62.5 million Latinos live in the U.S.—nearly 19% of the total population.
In 2021, the U.S. Latino GDP hit $2.8 trillion—making it the fifth-largest economy in the world if it stood alone.
Hispanic-owned businesses grew by 34% from 2007 to 2019, outpacing all other demographic groups.
The median age of U.S. Hispanics (29.5) is similar to that of Mexicans (27.9) and lower than that of the U.S. population (37.8).

The Latino community isn’t just participating in the economy-they’re helping lead it.

🔹 Leadership in Business and Nonprofit Impact

From Fortune 500 boardrooms to grassroots organizations, Hispanic leaders are driving real change. Here are some standout figures:

Corporate & Entrepreneurial Leadership

Roberto Goizueta – Former CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, who grew its value from $4 billion to $145 billion.
Linda Alvarado – President of Alvarado Construction and co-owner of the Colorado Rockies—is a trailblazer in sports and business.
Sol Trujillo – First U.S.-born Latino to serve as CEO of a Fortune 200 company, leading global telecom firms like US West and Telstra.
Nina Vaca – CEO of Pinnacle Group, a billion-dollar IT staffing firm and one of the fastest-growing woman-owned businesses in the country.
Carlos Rodriguez – Former CEO and current Executive Chair of ADP, leading HR tech transformation across global markets.
Gisel Ruiz – Former COO of Sam’s Club, known for her impact on retail operations and her focus on diversity-driven leadership.

Nonprofit & Social Impact Leaders

Dolores Huerta – Civil rights icon and founder of the Dolores Huerta Foundation, organizing rural communities for justice and equity.
Antonio Tijerino – CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, empowering Latino youth in education and tech.
Maria Teresa Kumar – CEO of Voto Latino, leading one of the most effective civic engagement nonprofits in the U.S.
Janet Murguía – CEO of UnidosUS, advocating nationally for Latino civil rights, education access, and economic mobility.
Luis Miranda Jr. – Board Chair of the Latino Victory Fund, supporting leadership development and advocacy.
Rosario Dawson – Actor and activist, co-founder of Voto Latino, and a visible advocate for voting rights, climate, and immigration reform.

These individuals are not only creating jobs and influencing policy—they’re redefining what leadership looks like in America.

🔹Hispanic Excellence in Education, Arts, and Sports (1994–2025)

Education

Dr. Ellen Ochoa – First Latina astronaut and former Director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Dr. Julio Frenk – Global health leader and President of the University of Miami.

Arts

Lin-Manuel Miranda – Creator of Hamilton, Pulitzer winner, and advocate for Puerto Rican recovery and Latino representation.
America Ferrera – Emmy-winning actress and activist, recently acclaimed for her role in Barbie (2023).

Sports

Lionel Messi – Joined Inter Miami CF in 2023, elevating the profile of U.S. soccer.
Monica Puig – First Puerto Rican to win Olympic gold (Tennis, 2016).
Anthony Rendon – Key player in the Washington Nationals’ 2019 World Series win.

🔹 Learn More and Celebrate

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a moment to celebrate heritage—but also to recognize the active role Hispanic Americans play in our economy, culture, and society.

Explore more:

Pew Research: Key Facts About U.S. Latinos
Pew Research: Facts on Latinos in the U.S.
Official Site: hispanicheritagemonth.gov

Let’s celebrate, uplift, and support this growing force—not just this month, but all year long.