Our board of directors

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Jossué Torres serves as Vice President of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey, where he is dedicated to celebrating Puerto Rican heritage, preserving cultural traditions, and strengthening community unity. Through his leadership and commitment to community outreach, he supports initiatives that promote cultural pride, civic engagement, and positive opportunities for future generations.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Jamille Hernández is a distinguished real estate professional licensed as a Broker in New Jersey, Florida, and Puerto Rico, and as a Mortgage Loan Officer in New Jersey and Florida. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a minor in Human Resources Management from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, they began their career at Bank of America in Newark, NJ, and later served as Senior Collections Manager for a Fortune 500 Spanish company in San Juan, PR, where they established new collections departments for microfinance subsidiaries.

After relocating to New Jersey to pursue entrepreneurial ventures and focus on family, they engaged in small businesses and co-founded an investment property business. Their passion for real estate led them to work with prominent agencies before founding Realty Xpress Group in Belleville, NJ.

Specializing in residential, multi-family, rental, and commercial real estate, they draw upon extensive experience in banking, accounting, and sales. Actively involved in community service, they contribute to local non-profits and serve as Treasurer of the Puerto Rican Day Parade of Newark, NJ. Their professionalism and dedication to building relationships define their approach to real estate.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

José E. Velázquez Luyanda was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico but raised in Harlem (NYC) and moved to Newark, NJ in 1979. He is a lifelong activist for social justice in the United States and for Puerto Rican independence. A graduate of Columbia University, he taught American, African American, and Latin-American history at Central High School and University High Schools.  

He is a founder of the Thurgood Marshall Law Academy at University H.S.  A retired educator and curriculum writer from the Newark Public Schools, he was a presenter at the founding meeting of the Amistad Commission of NJ.  He has often lectured on Afro-Latino issues. 

His opposition to the Vietnam War in the early 1970's resulted in an important constitutional case in United States v José E.Velázquez (1974) in the federal courts concerning issues relating to double jeopardy.

He is a co-author of two seminal books on Puerto Rican radical history published by Temple University Press in 1998, and 2022.

Member and past chair of the Friends of the NJ Hispanic Research & Information Center at the Newark Public Library, he has been active with the Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. since 2007.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Antonia Lerdo serves as Vendor and Food Coordinator for Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey. She coordinates vendors and food participants, helping ensure that all arrangements are organized, welcoming, and aligned with the Parade’s standards. Through her dedication and attention to detail, Antonia plays an important role in creating a successful celebration of Puerto Rican culture, food, and community.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Madeline Rodriguez is a mortgage professional, community leader, pageant director, and former Miss Puerto Rico Queen of the State of New Jersey, crowned in 1994. With more than 25 years of experience in the mortgage industry and a degree in Business Administration. 

Madeline brings professionalism, leadership, and dedication to everything she does.

Madeline proudly serves as a Board Member of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. and Pageant Director of the Miss Puerto Rico New Jersey Statewide Pageant, where she mentors and empowers young girls and women while promoting Puerto Rican culture and heritage.

She is also an active member of El Comité Patriótico Puertorriqueño and is involved in VIP relations, community outreach, and the coordination of the Newark Latin Festival, helping bring community leaders, organizations, and residents together to celebrate Latino culture.

Madeline is passionate about family, community, leadership, cultural pride, and creating opportunities for future generations.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Yesenia López serves as a Board Member of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey. She is also Director of the NJ Hispanic Research & Information Center at The Newark Public Library. 

Yesenia is a dedicated community leader who generously volunteers her time, expertise, and strategic ideas to support the Parade’s mission. Her professionalism, responsibility, and commitment make her a valuable asset to the organization and the community she serves.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Marieangelic Martínez is a Newark-born and raised community leader and proud Puerto Rican mother whose history with the Puerto Rican Day Parade of New Jersey spans 27 years. With 16 years of experience serving North and Central New Jersey, her career includes community health, outreach, nonprofit program management, care management, and grant writing. She currently works in community health within a New Jersey healthcare system.

A graduate of Seton Hall University and The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Marieangelic is also a business owner and entrepreneur. She serves as Treasurer of the New Jersey Community Health Worker Association and a board member of the Puerto Rican Day Parade of New Jersey, where she previously served as Executive Assistant and Research Specialist. She is also a Family Consultant with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families’ Office of Family Voice. Her community service includes work with the Juvenile Justice Commission.

Through her professional and personal work, she remains dedicated to youth development, strengthening families, elevating community voices, and celebrating Puerto Rican culture.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Aurea Cartagena-Pierre is a dedicated Board Member of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey, and a professional real estate agent serving communities throughout New Jersey. Known for her professionalism, confidence, and outspoken leadership, Aurea brings a strong voice and positive energy to the organization.

Aurea generously volunteers her time and talents wherever they are needed, supporting the Board and helping ensure the success of the Parade and its community initiatives. Her flexibility, dedication, and commitment to service make her a valuable member of the Puerto Rican Day Parade team.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Verónica Cáez is a dedicated entrepreneur, community advocate, faith-driven leader, and owner of All Graphic Designs, LLC. Originally from Carolina, Puerto Rico, she built her career through determination, creativity, and a strong commitment to serving others. Her passion for graphic design has allowed her to support businesses, organizations, and community initiatives throughout New Jersey.

As a Board Member of the Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, Veronica generously volunteers her time, talent, and expertise. She works closely with Griselle Ponce, Jossué Torres, and José Velázquez in the Graphic Design Department, helping create flyers, website materials, banners, t-shirts, advertisements, and the official Parade Ad Journal. Her creativity and dedication help promote 

Puerto Rican culture and contribute to the continued success of the Parade.

Veronica is also actively involved in church leadership and ministry, dedicating her time and talents to encouraging others in their faith and helping guide individuals toward a stronger relationship with God. She serves as President of ConnectingSouls, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about Jesus Christ and helping people discover a faith-centered path toward God. Through her faith, leadership, professional skills, and community service, Veronica continues to inspire others and make a positive difference in the community.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Eusebia Tejada is a dedicated Board Member of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey. She is committed to supporting the Parade’s mission of celebrating Puerto Rican culture, heritage, and community.

Eusebia generously volunteers her time and assists with Parade activities and events whenever needed. Her willingness to help, dependable spirit, and commitment to the community make her a valued member of the Puerto Rican Day Parade team.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Pedro Rivera is a dedicated Board Member of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey (2024-present), serving in Community Engagement. He is a respected and responsible leader who brings a strong sense of duty, guidance, and commitment to the organization and the community it serves.

Pedro is a valuable asset to the Puerto Rican Day Parade, generously giving his time, knowledge, and experience to support its programs, activities, and community initiatives. His leadership and willingness to assist wherever needed reflect his deep commitment to serving others and strengthening the Puerto Rican community.

With his strong sense of responsibility, professionalism, and dedication to community service, Pedro continues to play an important role in helping the Puerto Rican Day Parade fulfill its mission of celebrating Puerto Rican heritage, culture, and community pride.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Jesus “Chucho” Vargas is a dedicated entrepreneur, business owner, and longtime member of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey. As the owner of Omar’s Cafe on Mt. Prospect Avenue, Chucho has built a strong connection with the local community through his business, generosity, and willingness to support community events.

Chucho is a faithful supporter of the Puerto Rican Day Parade, generously donating his time, preparing food and snacks, and assisting with Parade activities whenever needed. His willingness to give back and contribute his talents reflects his deep commitment to Puerto Rican culture and the Newark community.

Through his entrepreneurship, generosity, and continued service to the Parade, Chucho Vargas remains a valued member and a great asset to Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc.

Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. | Newark, New Jersey

Sgt. John Cosme is a respected Newark Police Officer and a dedicated Board Member of Puerto Rican Day Parade, Inc. in Newark, New Jersey. Known for his generosity, respect, and commitment to helping others, Sgt. Cosme brings professionalism, sound judgment, and a calm presence to everything he does.

Sgt. Cosme is always willing to assist others and help maintain order with patience and understanding. His leadership, character, and dedication to serving the community make him a great asset to the Puerto Rican Day Parade and a valued member of its Board of Directors.