President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama topped the guest list at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute’s 34th Annual Awards Gala, which drew an array of the Washington elite, including House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, White House officials and members of Congress. Also among those in attendance was Hollywood, Health & Society Director Sandra de Castro Buffington, who shook the president’s hand.
Award winners included Grammy-winning singer Vikki Carr; astronaut José Hernández; U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis; and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar.
The event raises critical funds for the organization’s award-winning programs, and highlights the many contributions that Latinos make to the country.