Felisa Rincón de Gautier Leadership Awards

The Felisa Rincón de Gautier Leadership Awards event was created in 2017 to honor Felisa Rincón de Gautier (1897 –1994) who was the first woman to be elected as the Mayor of a capital city in the Americas. A noted women’s rights activist and an active participant in the suffragist movement, she was mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico for 22 years (from 1946 to 1968). Through this award ceremony and the giving of these annual awards to prestigious leaders each year – it is PRAA’s goal to heighten and exemplify Ms. Rincon de Gautier’s impeccable service and commitment to her community, women, and her country. These awards aim to recognize individuals for their distinguished service and their contributions as role models and advocates who inspire others and the broader community.

The Felisa Rincón de Gautier Leadership Awards honor individuals whose leadership reflects civil courage, cultural pride, and community impact. Hosted by the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance, the awards celebrate leadership while directly investing in youth leadership and arts education programs that empower the next generation of cultural and civic leaders.

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