Cielo Gala of Latino Commission on Aids is this June 6th, 2025 at Cipriani in Manhattan.
The Latino Commission on AIDS is proud to announce that Francisco Ruiz, DrPH, former White House Director of the Office of National HIV/AIDS Policy, will be honored with the prestigious Dennis de León Voz de Compromiso Award at the organization’s annual Cielo Gala, to be held on June 6, 2025, at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.
The Dennis de León Voz de Compromiso (Voice of Commitment) Award is presented annually to an individual living with HIV who has demonstrated unwavering dedication to improving the health and well-being of Latino communities, especially in the fight against HIV and AIDS. The award is named in memory of the late Dennis de León, former president of the Latino Commission on AIDS and a tireless advocate for social justice and health equity.
Francisco Ruiz, DrPH is a nationally recognized leader in public health and HIV/AIDS policy, known for his passionate advocacy and impactful work on behalf of marginalized communities. During his tenure at the White House, Ruiz played a critical role in updating and implementing the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, with a focus on reducing disparities and advancing health equity for Latino, LGBTQ+, and other underserved populations.
“Francisco Ruiz embodies the spirit and legacy of Dennis de León,” said Guillermo Chacón, President of the Latino Commission on AIDS. “Through his leadership, vision, and commitment, he has helped shape policies that are not only inclusive but grounded in justice and compassion. We are honored to recognize his contributions to our communities at this year’s Cielo Gala.”
Ruiz’s career spans over two decades of service in public health at the local, state, and federal levels. His work has centered on advancing HIV prevention, care, and treatment, and addressing the broader social determinants that fuel health inequities. In his role as one of the highest-ranking Latino officials in the nation’s HIV policy apparatus, Ruiz consistently amplified the voices of those most impacted by the epidemic.
The 2025 Cielo Gala will celebrate the Latino Commission on AIDS’ 35th anniversary of dedicated service in the fight against HIV and AIDS under the signature theme of Designing a World Without AIDS. The landmark event will raise vital funds to support ongoing groundbreaking community mobilization efforts, which were at the heart of its founding and are needed now more than ever. The Gala will feature an evening of cocktails, dinner, entertainment by the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, and a fashion presentation, as well as a silent auction to benefit the Latino Commission on AIDS’ programs and services.
Sponsorships and tickets for the 30th Annual Cielo Gala are still available. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, ticket purchases, or to learn about the Cielo Awards, please visit www.cielolatino.org.
Michael Dowling, CEO of Northwell Health, at Annual Cielo Gala
The Latino Commission on AIDS is also proud to announce that Michael Dowling, President and CEO of Northwell Health, will be honored with the prestigious Business Leadership Award at its Annual Cielo Gala, to be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.
The Cielo Gala, which brings together leaders in health, business, media, philanthropy and entertainment, will celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Commission this year and the ongoing commitment of individuals and organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to the health and well-being of diverse communities. As the premier event in responding to the impact of HIV and AIDS in the Latino community, the Gala will spotlight Dowling’s exceptional leadership, both within the healthcare industry and in his support of underserved communities.
About the Latino Commission on AIDS
Founded in 1990, the Latino Commission on AIDS is one of the leading national organizations addressing the needs of Hispanic/Latino communities affected by HIV, AIDS and other health challenges. The Commission works to improve the quality of life for Latino individuals living with HIV, promote community participatory research, reduce the stigma surrounding the disease, and advocate for health policies that support equitable healthcare access for all. Through its programs and outreach efforts, the Latino Commission on AIDS has been instrumental in promoting health education, providing prevention services, and advocating for systemic changes to improve health outcomes for the Hispanic/Latino population.
