Leading Health Organizations Unite in Washington to Celebrate Health Leadership and Launch the National Hispanic Health Foundation Action Fund

WASHINGTON, Sept. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Hispanic Health Foundation (NHHF), National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF), Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), and National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) will come together on Wednesday, September 16, for the 2026 DC Leadership Reception.

The event, taking place from 6:00–9:00 p.m. at The University Club, 1135 16th Street NW, Washington, D.C., will celebrate healthcare leadership while investing in the next generation of health professionals. Leaders from government, healthcare, academia, philanthropy, and the private sector will gather to strengthen partnerships and advance solutions that improve health outcomes and expand access to quality care.

"On September 16, NHHF is proud to announce the NHHF Action Fund, a 501(c)(4), our lobbying arm, that will hold its first Capitol Hill Day to meet with Members of Congress and Senators on issues affecting Hispanic and underserved communities," said Dr. Elena Rios, Founder and President of the National Hispanic Health Foundation. "We are also proud to celebrate our 2026 Health Professional Student Scholarship recipients, Leadership Physician Fellows, and the presidents and leaders of the Hispanic Health Professionals Network."

NHHF will present Hispanic Health Leadership Awards to Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) with the Hispanic Health Leadership Award in recognition for her policies on lowering prescription drug costs, expanding rural and tribal healthcare access, protecting Medicare and seniors, and supporting mental health and maternal care; and to Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz, MD (CA-25) in recognition for his policies advancing healthcare access, strengthening the community health workforce and medical school training in underserved areas, and supporting greater participation in clinical research.

"My priorities have always been increasing access to quality care for the people who need it most. That means lowering costs, expanding coverage, and ensuring families are not forced to choose between a doctor's visit and paying their bills," said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz, MD. "This award belongs to the healthcare workers who fight for their communities every day. I'll keep showing up for them and working toward a future where quality care is a promise we keep to every family we serve."

"We are proud to announce the NHHF Action Fund at the reception, marking a significant step forward in advancing health advocacy and policy efforts to improve the health of Hispanic communities across the nation," said Andres Ramirez, President of the NHHF Action Fund.

Actor and comedian Gabe Pacheco will serve as the evening's master of ceremonies.

The 2026 DC Leadership Reception is made possible by the generous support of its sponsors and partners, whose commitment to health equity, healthcare leadership, and workforce development advances this important work.

We extend our sincere thanks to our Platinum, Gold, and Silver 2026 Leadership Reception sponsors for their generous support in making this event possible.

Platinum Sponsor
United Health Foundation

Gold Sponsor
Pfizer Inc.

Silver Sponsors
Centene Corporation
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
Johnson & Johnson

We also thank our media partners for helping amplify the event and its mission:
LATINO magazine, Latina Style magazine, El Tiempo Latino, and Latino Leaders magazine.

National Hispanic Health Foundation

The National Hispanic Health Foundation (NHHF) advances health equity by strengthening leadership, research, and education to support culturally responsive health professionals and improve care for Hispanic and underserved communities.  www.NHHFx.org

National Hispanic Health Foundation Action Fund.

The National Hispanic Health Foundation Action Fund is a strategic expansion of NHHF's mission focused on advancing federal and state policies that improve access to quality healthcare, address health disparities, and support a diverse healthcare workforce.

SOURCE National Hispanic Health Foundation