Univision's Community Empowerment Director honored with Fiestas Patrias Award

HOUSTON -- Congratulations to our friend, Univision Houston's Director of Community Empowerment, Grace Olivares. She is the 2016 recipient of The Fiestas Patrias Distinguished Hispanic Award.

While she was unable to attend the event, Fiestas Patrias founder Judge Armando Rodriguez, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, State Senator Sylvia Garcia and GI Forum's Johnny Mata accepted on her behalf.

In 1969, The Fiestas Patrias Distinguished Hispanic Award was established to honor individuals who have made substantial contributions for the progress of the Hispanic community. The award is also seen as a means to instill community pride and highlight recipients as role models for our youth.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett and HLS&R Chairman of the Board Jack Lyons were among the speakers. Past recipients include ABC13's Vice President of Community Affairs Cynthia Cisneros.

We congratulate Grace Olivares on her award.

Please watch our livestream of the 48th annual Fiestas Patrias parade Saturday, September 17th on ABC13.com