Noche de Campeones Gala 2026 – Institute of Hispanic Culture of Houston

Noche de Campeones Gala

May 1, 2026 | Thompson Houston | 6:30 PM

Join us for the Noche de Campeones Gala, an evening honoring the champions of our community—the leaders who strengthen Houston and the supporters whose generosity makes scholarships possible for Hispanic students.

This year’s gala honors Claudia Contreras and Roberto Contreras, and Isabel Lombana and Ignacio “Nacho” Torras—two couples whose leadership and shared commitment have made a meaningful impact on our community.

The evening brings together civic and business leaders, cultural advocates, and partners who share a belief in the power of education to expand opportunity. Guests will enjoy an elegant dinner, a silent and live auction, and live music by Grupo Kache.

For more than 60 years, donor-supported, merit-based scholarships have expanded access to higher education for Hispanic students while honoring culture, identity, and community. Your support helps ensure this legacy of opportunity continues for future scholars.

Gala Co-Chairs

Paloma Paramo

Board Member

Karely Peralta-Rioufol

Board Member

We’ll proudly recognize three leaders whose commitment to education and culture is opening doors for Hispanic students:

Corporate Impact Award – Hess Corporation
Honoring a corporate partner whose investment in education is fueling student success and scholarship access.
Community Leadership Award – Jose Adan & Virgie Treviño
Celebrating community leaders whose generosity and advocacy are creating lasting opportunities for future generations.
Individual Legacy Award – Jim Soto
Recognizing a lifetime of mentorship and service that continues to shape the future of Hispanic students through education.

Gala Host Committee

Maria Alejandra Azar
Board Member

Ismael Berumen
Board Member

Veronica Foley
Board President

Jacqueline Gerber
Board Member

Louis Holzer
Board Member

Yaneth Ibarra
Board Member

Paloma Paramo
Board Member

Jhakees Napolitano
Board Member

Harold Olaya
Board Member

Karely Peralta-Rioufol
Board Member

Andrew Slentz
Board Member

Peter Staartjes
Board Member

Lina Vargas
Board Secretary

DONATE TO THE AUCTION

We are collecting unique items, experiences, and packages for our ¡Viva la Gala! Silent and Live Auction.

Proceeds support IHCH’s mission to preserve and promote Hispanic heritage through scholarships, cultural programs, and educational initiatives. All donations are tax-deductible and donors will be recognized at the Gala and in the printed program.

To contribute:

Download the form and return it by email (instructions included), or
Submit your item online using the form below.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Support the Noche de Campeones Gala as a sponsor and play a direct role in sustaining IHCH’s scholarship program. Your sponsorship recognizes the leaders and supporters who strengthen our community while helping ensure educational opportunity remains accessible for Hispanic students across Houston.

Presenting Sponsor - $50,000

Two VIP reserved tables for 20 guests
One-night stay at the Thompson Hotel on the night of the event
Dedicated cocktail and wine service throughout dinner and program
Name recognition during the Gala welcome remarks, with the option to address attendees
Opportunity for a sponsor spotlight or interview highlighting your support of IHCH and Noche de Campeones
Featured recognition in the event program, on the IHCH website, and social media platforms

Platinum Sponsor - $25,000

One VIP reserved table for 10 guests
Name recognition during the Gala welcome remarks
Featured recognition in the event program, on the IHCH website, and social media platforms

Gold Sponsor - $15,000

One VIP reserved table for 10 guests
Name recognition during the Gala welcome remarks
Featured recognition in the event program, on the IHCH website, and social media platforms

Silver Sponsor - $10,000

One reserved table for 10 guests
Recognition in the event program, on the IHCH website, and social media platforms

Bronze Sponsor - $5,000

One table for 10 guests
Recognition in the event program, on the IHCH website, and across social media platform

Individual Ticket - $500

One individual ticket.

ALL SPONSOR LEVELS

Includes the following which will include level of sponsorship:
• Name recognition in event program • Name recognition in sponsorship highlight reel • Name recognition on IHCH website