07/31/2026
Latinas Unidas proudly congratulates Nydia Padilla Rodriguez on this well-deserved recognition honoring 45 years of leadership, cultural preservation, youth development, and service to our Rochester community through Borinquen Dance Theatre. ¡Felicidades, Nydia, and thank you for your extraordinary legacy! 🇵🇷❤️
Big surprise at the Puerto Rican Festival of Rochester, Inc. last night!
We were completely surprised when a joint proclamation was presented recognizing my wife, Nydia Padilla Rodriguez, for her 45 years of leadership through Borinquen Dance Theatre and her contributions to our community.
The proclamation was presented by Monroe County Legislature President Yversha Román, joined by members of the County Legislature, and Rochester City Council President Miguel Meléndez, along with members of City Council. It was a beautiful and humbling moment.
Many people may not know that for most of its 45-year history, Borinquen Dance Theatre has been much more than a dance company. For approximately 35 of those years, it has served as a youth development program through the performing Arts, helping young people build confidence, discipline, character, cultural pride, and the capacity to succeed as adults.
Nydia and I have had the privilege of witnessing that transformation firsthand. Watching generations of young people grow into strong adults has been one of the greatest joys of this work.
Thank you to the Monroe County Legislature, the Rochester City Council, and the Puerto Rican Festival of Rochester for recognizing Nydia's lifetime of service. It was a deeply meaningful moment—one we will never forget.
Congratulations, Nydia. I couldn't be more proud of you.
To everyone attending the festival, enjoy the celebration! There are still two more days of culture, music, food, and community ahead. ¡Que siga el fiesta! 🇵🇷❤️