July 24, 2025 – The National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) honored six journalists whose leadership, service, and storytelling have shaped Latino journalism during the Hall of Fame Gala at the 2025 NAHJ International Conference & Expo in Chicago.
“These awards are deeply personal,” said NAHJ President Dunia Elvir. “Each honoree has contributed to Latino journalism not just with their work, but with their integrity, mentorship, and commitment to lifting others. It’s a privilege to recognize people who have shaped our profession—and helped shape me.”
- Sid Garcia, veteran anchor at ABC7 Los Angeles, received the 2025 President’s Award for his decades of trusted reporting and his role as a trailblazer in broadcast journalism. Elvir spoke of seeing Garcia on television while still forming her own dreams in Los Angeles, saying his calm authority and professionalism showed her what was possible for Latino journalists.
- Vivian V. Panting, a steadfast leader behind the scenes of NAHJ for decades, was also honored with the 2025 President’s Award. Elvir credited Panting with helping build the foundation the organization stands on today, recognizing her dedication, institutional knowledge, and quiet strength that has lifted up generations of journalists.
- Marilyn Garateix, a veteran journalist and former NAHJ board member, received the 2025 ¡Dale! Award for her unwavering advocacy for fair and accurate representation of Latinos in the media. A Cuban American writer with more than three decades of experience at The Boston Globe, the Miami Herald, the Tampa Bay Times, and the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Garateix has long been a truth-teller who asks hard questions and pushes the profession toward higher standards. Within NAHJ, where she has served as vice president of print and on the scholarship committee, she doesn’t simply volunteer—she offers guidance, insight, and a powerful reminder that excellence demands both courage and care. Her relentless curiosity, integrity, and determination have kept the organization honest, lifted its work, and inspired others to lead with heart, purpose, and conviction.
- Ninette Sosa, longtime NAHJ leader and mentor, received the 2025 ¡Dale! Award for her tireless work strengthening the national convention and championing student journalists. Elvir praised Sosa’s generosity, service, and commitment to building space for others to lead.
- Julio Vaqueiro, anchor at Telemundo, was awarded the 2025 NAHJ Impact Award for journalism that deepens understanding of Latino communities and challenges harmful narratives. Elvir highlighted Vaqueiro’s ability to bring humanity to both the anchor desk and the field, with reporting that resonates across borders and generations.
- Tom Llamas, anchor at NBC News, received the 2025 Sí Se Puede Award, NAHJ’s highest individual honor. From his start in local news to becoming one of the most visible Latinos on national television, Llamas was recognized for his determination, leadership, and unwavering commitment to representing his community on the national stage.
The special awards were announced just before the 2025 NAHJ Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
About NAHJ
The National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) is the largest organization of Latino journalists in the United States, dedicated to the recognition and professional advancement of Hispanics in the news industry. Established in April 1984, NAHJ works to increase the number of Latinos in newsrooms and to promote fair, accurate, and inclusive coverage of Latino communities.
For more information, visit NAHJ.org or follow us on X @NAHJ.
Press contact: Andrew Sherry, press@nahj.org, (315)954-7571