A Proud Moment for Puerto Rico: Three Leaders Recognized in the U.S. Congress
On September 29, 2026, the Friends of Puerto Rico Capitol Hill Summit brought Puerto Rican leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and community partners together in Washington, D.C., for a day centered on Policy, Partnership & Opportunity.
Among the day’s meaningful moments was the recognition of three distinguished Puerto Rican leaders whose work reflects the talent, innovation, and commitment driving progress across the Island: Alberto Cordero, Robert Salcedo, and Dr. Carmen Berríos.
During the Summit, each honoree received a Congressional Record recognition submitted by U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres of New York’s 15th Congressional District, acknowledging their contributions and leadership.
Recognizing Puerto Rican Leadership
The Congressional Record is the official record of the proceedings and debates of the United States Congress. Having a leader’s accomplishments formally recognized in the Congressional Record places their work within a national platform and creates a lasting record of their contributions.
The recognitions celebrated:
Alberto Cordero, entrepreneur and founder of Ethree Solutions, for his leadership and contributions to Puerto Rico’s entrepreneurial and business community.
Robert Salcedo, of Ocyn Bio, for his work and commitment to innovation and biotechnology.
Dr. Carmen Berríos, of the University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla, for her contributions to education, leadership, and the development of Puerto Rico’s next generation.
The recognitions were presented at the U.S. Congress by Víctor Martínez, representing Congressman Ritchie Torres’ office, and Bianca Galarza, Board Member of Friends of Puerto Rico.
A Recognition Beyond the Moment
For Friends of Puerto Rico, celebrating these leaders was about more than an award. It was an opportunity to bring visibility to the people whose work is shaping Puerto Rico’s future.
Their paths represent different areas of impact—from entrepreneurship and biotechnology to education—but together, they reflect a shared commitment to creating opportunities, advancing innovation, and strengthening Puerto Rico.
That spirit is at the heart of the Capitol Hill Summit, which brings Puerto Rican voices and national partners together to build connections, elevate ideas, and create pathways for meaningful progress.
Recognizing Puerto Rican leadership on Capitol Hill also reinforces an important message: Puerto Rico’s talent, ideas, and contributions belong in national conversations.
Celebrating Those Moving Puerto Rico Forward
Friends of Puerto Rico is proud to honor leaders who demonstrate what is possible when talent, vision, and commitment come together.
We extend our deepest congratulations to Alberto Cordero, Robert Salcedo, and Dr. Carmen Berríos and thank them for the work they continue to do in their respective fields.
We also extend our appreciation to Congressman Ritchie Torres and his office for helping bring these recognitions to Capitol Hill and for creating a lasting record of the contributions of Puerto Rican leaders.
The Summit may have brought the Puerto Rican community together in Washington for one day, but the conversations, connections, and recognition of Puerto Rican leadership continue beyond the Hill.
Puerto Rico has the talent. Puerto Rico has the ideas. And Puerto Rico has leaders building what comes next.