From Inspiration to Exhibition: Celebrating 250 Years of Latino Impact on American History

Two years ago, the work of the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Latino and its mission to ensure that Latino history is recognized as an essential part of the American story was introduced to The Joseph A Unanue Latino Institute through a new relationship with trustee of the Museum, Dr. J. Mario Molina. Later that year, Seton Hall University alumnus, Omar Vargas, vice president and head of Global Public Policy at GM, and Estuardo Rodriguez, president and chief executive officer of Friend of the National Museum of the American Latino, treated 50 Seton Hall students to a VIP experience of the Museum.

"The National Museum of the American Latino has done extraordinary work elevating Hispanic and Latino histories, and we were inspired by them," said Executive Director, Lori Tarke. "We wanted to create something that communities across the country could easily access and use to celebrate our shared history"

The result is Celebrating 250 Years of Latino Impact on American History, a thirty panel roaming exhibit launching on July 4, 2026. Developed by the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute, the exhibit honors the individuals whose leadership, innovation, courage and perseverance have shaped the United States from the Revolutionary War through today. Available both as professionally designed 2 by 3 foot foam board panels and as free downloadable digital files, the exhibit was intentionally created to travel beyond Seton Hall University. Schools, libraries, corporations and community organizations nationwide will be able to download and display the exhibit as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration.

Each panel explores the featured individual's background, career, and lasting impact on American history. Beginning with Spanish allies of the American Revolution, including Diego de Gardoqui and Bernardo de Gálvez, the exhibit moves chronologically through every era of American history, highlighting trailblazers in science, medicine, military service, literature, journalism, business, entertainment, sports and public service. Several contemporary honorees also share meaningful connections to the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute, underscoring its mission of celebrating Latino excellence while inspiring future generations. The exhibit itself will also evolve, adding additional figures over time.

Beginning July 4, the collection will begin its formal debut and will be available through the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute's website for free download . Foam boards and easels can be borrowed by contacting the Latino Institute. In addition, the full exhibit will also be displayed at the Institute's 2026 Generaciones Gala at Cipriani Wall Street on October 16, where hundreds of leaders from business, education, philanthropy and government will gather to celebrate Latino achievement and support student success.

Tickets for the gala are available for purchase here.

“Our hope is that every person who sees this exhibit realizes that they, too, have the power to shape America's next 250 years," Tarke stated. "It’s an invitation as much as it is a celebration. These are the shoulders we stand on and we hope that one day, you will stand beside them."

Support for this exhibition was provided by DailyPay and Sharp Electronics USA.

Categories: Arts and Culture