Latina Center MARIA:

Honoring Inspirational Women

Juanita Campos Rivera, CSJA, accepting her award for Inspirational Woman of 2026 at the gala.

Latina Center MARIA, established by Magalie Torres-Rowe, CSJA, celebrated its 10th anniversary at their annual gala on May 8th, honoring Marilyn McGoldrick, CSJ with the Distinguished Leadership Award for her unwavering commitment to raising awareness about human trafficking. Sister Marilyn noted, “The Latina Center stands as a living testament to what happens when women are seen, heard, and empowered. For ten years, this community has lifted up mothers, so often the unseen heroines among us, women whose gifts can be overlooked when language and culture become barriers.”

The Latina Center reflects the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph, which emerged in 1650 France and was nurtured for centuries, into the present day.

Some of our associates were celebrated as well: Juanita Campos Rivera, CSJA, was honored as an Inspirational Woman of 2026 and Kathy Tighe, CSJA, was honored as a Community Champion with ten years of support for the Latina Center.