The 2026 Sophia Awards for Excellence

An award recognizing those who build appreciation for Spain and the Spanish-speaking world through wisdom and humanitarianism

Honoring 

Jorge M. and Darlene Pérez

Frank and Haydée Rainieri

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Since its establishment in 1954, the QSSI has carried its mission forward by sharing the contributions of the Spanish-speakers to the history and culture of the United States and by showcasing the excellence of the Spanish-speaking world in numerous fields so that lasting ties of friendship may be formed. 

The QSSI achieves this vision through cultural and educational activities, including lectures, symposia and book presentations addressing relevant topics in public affairs, business, science, and the arts, all pertaining to the U.S. and Spain’s rich shared history. The QSSI also has a long history of recognizing the excellence of the Spanish-speaking world through its Gold Medal and Sophia Award for Excellence, which have been bestowed upon distinguished leaders in many different fields. 

To commemorate Spanish contributions to the American Revolution, the QSSI launched the America&Spain250 initiative celebrating 250 years of shared history, friendship, and collaboration between the U.S., Spain, and the Spanish-speaking world. The QSSI aims to facilitate the recognition of Spain in the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the United States (1776 – 2026) through a series of programs and activities: a nationwide grassroots outreach project to strengthen knowledge of this shared history, the creation of educational materials, and signature events like the Sophia Awards for Excellence.

The QSSI has sponsored lectures, exhibitions, prizes, and concerts; held receptions to bring together distinguished members of the Hispanic and U.S. intellectual world; and promoted the exchange of students, scholars, artists and musicians between Spanish-speaking countries and the U.S. Today, the QSSI is a leading platform connecting Spanish and American cultural institutions through a myriad of impactful programs.

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Queen Sofía Spanish Institute Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax exempt, charitable organization. 

Contributions from dinner tickets are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. The non-deductible portion for each table is $1,500.00. The non-deductible portion for each ticket is $150.00. TAX ID: 13-2548780

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FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: queensofiaspanishinstitute.org/sophiaawardforexcellence2026

Or email us with any questions: info@queensofiasi.org