Guests dancing at the Azúcar Ball, a celebration of Dominican culture in New Orleans.
The New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation held its annual Azúcar Ball, themed ‘Quisqueya Noche de Encanto Tropical’, at the Hyatt Regency. The event showcased Dominican culture with food, music, and dancing, attracting a diverse crowd. Highlights included a culinary showcase, vibrant Latin performances, and the prestigious Gálvez Cup awarded to Sonia Pérez. Proceeds from the ball support scholarships for low-income Hispanic students, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to education and community support.
New Orleans witnessed a vibrant celebration of Dominican culture on November 23, as the New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation held its annual Azúcar Ball at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. The event, themed “Quisqueya Noche de Encanto Tropical,” attracted a diverse crowd eager to enjoy a night of food, music, and fundraising.
Presented by Pan-American Life Insurance Group, the evening kicked off with a patron party, sponsored by Chef Adolfo Garcia Jr., setting the stage for a festive night ahead. Guests were treated to a culinary showcase featuring renowned New Orleans restaurants such as Brasa Churrasqueria, Empanola, and Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco, ensuring that the event was not just a celebration of heritage but also a gastronomic delight.
Once the festivities shifted into full gear, attendees participated in what has been dubbed the “Best Dancing Party in New Orleans.” The celebration featured lively Latin music from various performers including AshèSon and Fermin Ceballos, along with DJ Felipe Estrada, providing an energetic atmosphere that encouraged guests to dance and immerse themselves in the rich cultural experience.
A special highlight of the night was the presentation of the Gálvez Cup, awarded to Sonia Pérez, a prominent advocate for the foundation and former president of AT&T Southeast States. The Gálvez Cup is the foundation’s highest honor, reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to its mission of supporting the Hispanic community.
Proceeds from the Azúcar Ball are allocated toward scholarships for low-income Hispanic high school and college-bound students, a cause that is central to the foundation’s mission. Since its inception in 1993, the New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation has awarded over 1,300 scholarships, making a meaningful impact in the lives of young individuals seeking higher education.
Event co-chairs Ashley Garcia and Dr. Nicole Caridad Ralston played key roles in organizing the successful event. Plans for the 2025 Azúcar Ball are already underway, with new co-chairs Isis Casanova, Rosa Rodriguez, and Ashley Morgan scheduled to lead the next event, which will take place on December 6, 2025.
The New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of Hispanic culture while providing educational support through its scholarship program. In addition to scholarship funding, the foundation actively supports local artistic and cultural activities that reflect the vibrancy of the Hispanic community.
Mrs. Sonia Pérez’s recognition for her work extends beyond the Azúcar Ball; she is also an independent board director for Hancock Whitney Corp. and serves as president of the University of Texas Foundation, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to fostering educational initiatives and leadership.
Leading the foundation are Ms. Heidi A. Kiesling as President and Mrs. Belinda Flores-Shinshillas as the Executive Director, both dedicated to advancing the foundation’s goals and ensuring the successful execution of events like the Azúcar Ball.
The Azúcar Ball not only stands as a celebration of culture but also as a critical support system for the aspirations of young Hispanic students in New Orleans, reinforcing the importance of education and cultural pride in the community.
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