About Hispanic Women of Distinction
Hispanic Women of Distinction (HWOD) was founded in 2001 by Elaine Miceli-Vasquez and her late husband, Erwin M. Vasquez, M.D., to honor the achievements and contributions of South Florida’s Latina leaders.
Presented by Latina Style Magazine, the nation’s premier publication for Hispanic women in business, in partnership with Nicklaus Children’s Health System—the region’s only specialty-licensed healthcare network exclusively dedicated to children—and media partner Latin Business Today, this inspiring event celebrates leadership, philanthropy, and cultural pride.
Each year, the Hispanic Women of Distinction charity luncheon recognizes outstanding Latina professionals, community leaders, and entrepreneurs who make a lasting difference in their fields and beyond. What began as a small local gathering of 200 guests has evolved into one of the nation’s largest and most anticipated celebrations of Latinas, selling out annually and attracting hundreds of attendees who come together to uplift, connect, and celebrate excellence within the Hispanic community.
Elaine Miceli-Vasquez – Co-Founder and Visionary
In addition to her work with HWOD, Elaine Miceli-Vasquez is a trailblazer in South Florida media and communications. She is the owner and publisher of El Heraldo de Broward, the county’s first bilingual newspaper, established in 1974. Under her direction, the publication has grown into a respected voice for the Hispanic community and expanded into event production.
Elaine’s career spans more than five decades of groundbreaking achievements. From 1970 to 1985, she co-owned and helped pioneer Broward County’s cable television industry. In 1992, she founded Latin Power, Inc., one of the first multicultural communications agencies in the region, and later launched We Do Events, a full-service event production company. Collectively, her ventures have produced more than 50 major events, including the Hispanic Women of Distinction Charity Luncheon, which continues to inspire and empower new generations of Latina leaders.
Elaine’s visionary leadership and deep commitment to her community have shaped her remarkable career and continue to influence the business and philanthropic landscape of South Florida today.
❤️ Remembering Our Founder – Dr. Erwin M. Vasquez
Dr. Erwin M. Vasquez was a Venezuelan-born cardiologist, philanthropist, and community leader whose legacy continues to shine through the organizations he founded and the lives he touched. A proud advocate for Hispanic heritage, Dr. Vasquez was also the publisher of El Heraldo de Broward and the founder of the Light of the World Clinic, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free healthcare to underserved families in Broward County.
Together, Dr. Vasquez and Elaine shared a vision of empowering Latinas and recognizing their growing influence across South Florida. Inspired by his passion for culture and service, the couple created the Hispanic Women of Distinction event as part of Hispanic Heritage Month, alongside the popular ¡Viva Broward! Festival, to honor the accomplishments and contributions of Hispanic-American women in the community.
From its humble beginnings to its now sold-out celebrations, the Hispanic Women of Distinction remains a living tribute to Dr. Vasquez’s legacy — a celebration of culture, compassion, and community.