Noche de Gala 2026
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2026 Gala Award Recipients
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Nelly LorenzoFrancis Cardinal George Honoree
Assistant Dean, School of Parish Leadership,
Nelly Lorenzo was born in Aguada, Puerto Rico, into a family of seven children. She completed her education on the island, studying Accounting and Philosophy, before moving to the United States for a missionary experience in South Bend, Indiana.
UNIVERSITY OF SAINT MARY OF THE LAKE
She has held several leadership roles within the Archdiocese of Chicago, including Coordinator of Vicariate II in the Office of Hispanic Ministry. She earned a Master of Divinity from Loyola University and completed academic requirements for a Doctorate in Ministry.
Lorenzo has served as a Pastoral Associate at St. Mark Parish and later directed the Hispanic Institute at Loyola University Chicago. She currently works as Assistant to the Dean at the School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization.
Her experience also includes directing the Pastoral Leadership Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake, overseeing Spanish-language ministry programs, and working for six years in catechist certification.
Key milestones in her life include her missionary work, leadership in pastoral organizations, and speaking at national and local levels, all reflecting her deep commitment to faith, education, and community service.
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Jose y Guadalupe JimenezStar of guadalupe Honorees
Founders & Owners of Carnicerias Jimenez
Jose and Guadalupe Jimenez are Mexican-American entrepreneurs whose lives exemplify faith, family, perseverance, and service. Jose, born in 1952, developed a strong work ethic early while supporting his family in Mexico before immigrating to Chicago in the early 1970s. In 1973, he met Guadalupe, who was born in 1957 in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. They married in 1975 and, that same year, launched their first business, Fruteria Jimenez, soon expanding into Carnicerias Jimenez.
From humble beginnings, they grew their business into a respected grocery chain serving Chicago and surrounding suburbs, becoming trusted providers of fresh, authentic, and affordable products in Latin communities. As leaders, they built not just a business but a community cornerstone.
Deeply committed to giving back, Jose and Lupe supported local organizations and helped families in need, often quietly and without recognition. They raised three children—Luz Maribel, Jose, and Guadalupe—instilling values of integrity, resilience, and service.
Guadalupe Jimenez passed away in 2022, remembered for her generosity and strength. Jose continues their shared legacy of community, compassion, and dedication.
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GALA 2026 SPonsors
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Mother OF HOPE LEVEL Sponsors
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Morning Star Level Sponsors
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ROSE OF HOPE level sponsors
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Lawrence Kearns
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For More information, Please Contact us!
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Cristina Serranocserranosolg.orgDirector of Development
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