NASA Astronaut Dr. Jose M. Hernandez to Headline 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Banquet in Support of West Texas’ First Hispanic Heritage Museum
San Angelo, TX – This Hispanic Heritage Month, join us for an evening of inspiration and celebration at the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Banquet, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Jose M. Hernandez, a former NASA astronaut whose journey from the fields of California to the stars embodies the spirit of perseverance and dedication. This pivotal event not only highlights the significant contributions of the Hispanic community but also supports the establishment of the first Hispanic Heritage Museum in West Texas. Tickets/Tables will go on sale to the public on June 6, 2024.
Event Details:
- Date: September 16, 2024
- Location: San Angelo, Texas
- Venue: McNease Convention Center
As a city that thrives on cultural diversity, San Angelo recognizes the invaluable contributions of its Hispanic community. The banquet is a key initiative in our efforts to foster an inclusive environment that celebrates and honors this rich heritage. Following the success of last year’s event, this year’s banquet aims to be even more captivating, with Dr. Jose M. Hernandez’s keynote speech as the highlight.
Dr. Hernandez's remarkable narrative, from working in the agricultural fields to exploring the vastness of space, resonates with the ethos of ambition and resilience. His story, vividly captured in the biographical drama “A million miles away” by Amazon Prime, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, illustrating the boundless possibilities that arise from hard work and determination.
The evening will also celebrate local heroes through the presentation of prestigious awards and showcase vibrant cultural entertainment. In addition to celebrating Hispanic heritage, the event is a crucial step towards the realization of the Hispanic Heritage Museum in West Texas, an institution that will educate, inspire, and celebrate the achievements of Hispanic Americans for future generations.
Award Nominations and Partnership Opportunities:
In addition to celebrating Hispanic heritage, we are now accepting nominations for our distinguished awards through July 31, 2024, via our website. These awards recognize individuals in our community who have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and commitment.
We are also actively seeking partnerships and sponsors for this year's banquet and the development of the Hispanic Heritage Museum. This presents a unique opportunity for sponsors to demonstrate their support for cultural preservation and education, with various levels of engagement and visibility available.
Join us in making the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Banquet a landmark event in the journey toward establishing the Hispanic Heritage Museum in West Texas. Your support, attendance, and contributions are essential in bringing our shared vision to fruition, celebrating the culture, traditions, and achievements that form the fabric of our diverse community.
About Dr. Jose M. Hernandez:
Dr. Jose M. Hernandez's contributions extend beyond his NASA career. While at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, he worked on advanced imaging technologies, including developing the first full-field digital mammography imaging system, significantly advancing early breast cancer detection. His work earned him recognition awards and demonstrated the impact of applying space-age technology to medical advancements. Hernandez also engaged in international diplomacy, representing Lawrence Livermore and the U.S. Department of Energy on Russian nuclear non-proliferation efforts. His diverse achievements, from space exploration to healthcare innovation and international collaboration, underscore his multifaceted contribution to science and society.
For more information on the banquet, partnership opportunities, and how to become a sponsor, please visit sanangelohispanicheritage.org
Contact:
Del Velasquez, President 325-277-1474; Suzanna Valenzuela, Vice-President 325-340-3363; Monica Ramos, Treasurer 325-656-3911
hispanicheritage.sa@gmail.com
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