WASHINGTON, D.C.  - The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) celebrates 30 years of serving Latino youth with its 30th Annual Gala on Wednesday, October 3, 2007. This year’s theme is Hispanic America: A Legacy of Honor and commemorates the vast contributions Latinos have made and continue to make in building this country.

With 40 Members of Congress in attendance, an unprecedented number, Latino leaders unite to honor Hispanic veterans. This year’s Chairman’s Award, selected by CHCI Chairman, Hon. Joe Baca (CA-43), will honor all Hispanic veterans who have served our country and pay tribute to three of five living Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients who will be present.

Congressman Luís Gutierrez and Monica Lozano will be presented with the Medallion of Excellence for Leadership and Community Service Awards. Gutierrez is an eight-term Member of Congress from Illinois and a tireless leader championing the causes of the Latino and immigrant communities across the nation. Lozano is a powerhouse in the media industry, leading the most widely read Spanish language newspaper in the United States, La Opinión, and using her influence to inform millions of Latinos about critical issues such as immigration, health care and education.

The event will be emceed by Ali Landry, an actress and Miss USA 1996, with entertainment provided by legendary salsero Willie Colón, who celebrates his 40th year in the music business. Gala Host Astrazeneca joins in supporting CHCI’s leadership development programs for Hispanic youth, along with Premiere Sponsors Bank of America and Comcast Corporation.

For press credentials, please contact: Scott Gunderson Rosa at 202-340-7073 or via email at sgunderson_rosa@chci.org.

About Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), a nonprofit and nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization, provides leadership development programs and educational services to students and young emerging leaders. The CHCI Board of Directors is comprised of Hispanic Members of Congress, nonprofit leaders and corporate executives. For more information call CHCI at (202) 543-1771 or visit www.chci.org.