An engaged network of change‑makers
working to unite, educate, and empower our community
The chapter was established in 2017 following the 2016 formation of NPRA in Camden, NJ. NPRA-NY is a nonpartisan alliance of state-wide organizations, community leaders, and grassroots organizers working with city and state government to advance economic, educational, and healthcare equity for Puerto Rican communities across New York.
Robust tech training, financial planning, workforce development, and entrepreneurial and small business programs to build lasting economic power in our community.
Culturally relevant access to crucial and holistic healthcare, nutritional resources, and safe public spaces for exercise and play — because healthy communities are strong communities.
Stemming the tide of displacement and pursuing equitable and affordable housing that allows Puerto Ricans to stay and thrive in their communities across New York.
Building tomorrow's leaders and advocates through mentorship, opportunity, and community — from youth programs to civic education for all ages.
Desiree joined NPRA in 2018, serving as the Communications/PR Chair for the NY Chapter. She led communication efforts for campaigns including post-Maria aid efforts, national and local voter registration drives, and social media mobilization.
Professionally, Desiree has over 25 years of global brand management experience as a marketing and communication strategist helping brands, nonprofits, and cultural institutions connect with the Hispanic market.
Born in Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico and raised in the Bronx, Carmen has a rich history of public advocacy. Sparked by her father's activism as Mayor of Juana Díaz, she continued the fight against poverty and cultural preservation.
An artist and interior designer by trade, Ms. Cruz made history in 1986 by curating the first Latin artist exhibit at the Wooster Gallery in SoHo. In 2017, she founded the Silent Procession NYC4PR.
Eric embodies the organization's mission to unite, educate, and create solutions for the Puerto Rican people by leveraging his expertise in the field of law.
Mr. Díaz is a Founder and Managing Partner of LareDiaz, a minority-owned law firm focusing on commercial real estate. A graduate of NYU School of Law's Graduate Tax Program, he also serves as General Counsel for Taller Puertorriqueño.
Evelyn Alicea-Santiago currently serves as the first Puerto Rican and career educator elected to the White Plains City Common Council in November 2025.
Born in East Harlem, she founded The White Plains Puerto Rican Cultural Committee in 2020, inspiring city-wide participation through artistic expression, literature, dance, and an annual flag raising and street fair.
Teresa is the founding member and Chairwoman of Comité Noviembre, a non-profit celebrating 40 years commemorating Puerto Rican Heritage Month, providing annual scholarships and disaster relief.
She also heads TAS Communications, LLC, and previously served as Executive Director of the NYS Consumer Protection Board and Director of the Governor's Office of Hispanic Affairs. She serves on the boards of The Hostos Community College Foundation and the Hurricane Maria Memorial Commission.
Bio coming soon.
We're looking for a passionate communications professional to help share our story and amplify our community's voice.
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