ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News is honored to close out National Hispanic Heritage Month by showcasing the achievements and contributions of The Honorable Daisy Morales, former Florida State Representative. Her impact in state lawmaking, conservation, advocacy, and bipartisanship continues today through her nonprofit work—ensuring her legacy of service to Floridians and Puerto Rican communities endures for generations to come.

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The Honorable Daisy Morales: A Legacy of Service, Leadership & Impact

The Honorable Daisy Morales is more than a former Florida State Representative — she is a bold and principled public servant whose distinguished career spans federal, local, and state roles, always rooted in her Puerto Rican heritage and unwavering commitment to bipartisanship.

Born in The Bronx, New York, Morales earned an Associate’s Degree in criminology and administration and has devoted over 30 years to public service — including 24 years in U.S. federal government roles with the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State.

Today, she continues her mission as Founder and President of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving and advancing Puerto Rican culture, education, and empowerment throughout Florida.

Bipartisan Leadership and Getting Things Done

Throughout her career, Morales has earned a reputation as a soft-spoken yet determined leader who works across party lines to deliver real results for her constituents. In the Florida House, she was known not just as a Democrat, but as a pragmatic problem-solver willing to collaborate to get meaningful legislation passed.

Her legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring over 100 bipartisan bills that became law. One of her signature legislative successes, CS/HB 45 – Educational Opportunities for Disabled Veterans, was introduced with Rep. Christopher Benjamin. The law provides tuition and fee waivers for disabled veterans attending Florida’s state universities, career centers, and colleges—closing the gap left by the federal GI Bill.

Morales’ bipartisan approach exemplified her belief that effective leadership means putting people before politics.

Trailblazer in Hispanic and Minority Representation

During her tenure, Morales made history multiple times. She became the first Hispanic state lawmaker to join Black colleagues in a sit-in protest on the Florida House floor, taking a powerful stand against the Governor’s congressional redistricting map that threatened to weaken minority representation. Holding a sign that read, “Legislators serve the people. Not your party,” Morales stood in solidarity with lawmakers defending Black and Hispanic congressional districts across Florida.

State Rep. Daisy Morales talks with Florida Division of Emergency Management staff at an event in January 2021. Photo: Florida Representative Daisy Morales (Facebook).

Leadership in Crisis Response

Florida State Representative Daisy Morales distinguished herself as a proven leader during some of Florida’s most challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple hurricane emergencies. Her hands-on approach and decisive actions demonstrated her deep commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Floridians.

During the height of the COVID-19 crisis, Rep. Morales was the first state lawmaker to call on Governor Ron DeSantis to establish a 24-hour mass vaccination site—a proactive measure aimed at expanding vaccine access, especially in underserved communities within her district. Her leadership helped accelerate local vaccination efforts and ensured that critical resources reached residents most in need.

Morales also played a visible and responsive role during hurricane emergencies, coordinating with state and local officials to deliver aid, share vital information, and connect affected families with recovery resources. Her consistent engagement in times of crisis reflected her commitment to effective governance, rapid response, and community resilience at the state level.

She was also the first elected official in Orange County to be sworn in by Mayor Jerry Demings, the county’s first African American mayor, during her re-election as District 2 Supervisor for the Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District in 2018. In 2014, she made history again as the first Orange County official sworn in by a member of Congress, U.S. Congressman Alan Grayson.

Thanks to the leadership of Orange County Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor Daisy Morales, drivers entering Orange County from Osceola County now know they’re crossing into a designated Soil & Water Conservation District—this time in District 4.

Supervisor Daisy Morales and Orange County Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero joined forces to install two new conservation awareness signs in Commissioner Cordero’s district. The new signs are located on Narcoossee Road near Boggy Creek Road and South Orange Avenue near Mary Louis Lane, each positioned at the Osceola County line. The signs inform motorists that they are entering both Orange County and a Soil & Water Conservation District, highlighting the county’s ongoing commitment to natural resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

This initiative builds on Supervisor Morales’s earlier success in promoting conservation awareness. In 2018, Morales made history by partnering with District 5 Commissioner Emily Bonilla to erect the first two Soil & Water Conservation District signs in Orange County. Those signs were installed along the Orange–Seminole County line, one on Chuluota Road and another on Dean Road, marking the start of a broader countywide effort to educate the public about conservation district boundaries and their role in protecting natural resources.

These signs serve as more than simple markers—they are visual reminders of the importance of conserving soil and water resources and of the role local government plays in promoting sustainability. By raising public awareness through visible, everyday engagement, Morales continues to advance her mission of community education and environmental protection across Central Florida.

Her leadership and representation have served as an inspiration to Puerto Ricans and Latinos seeking a voice in Florida government.

Key Legislative Wins with Lasting Impact

Rep. Morales’ tenure in the Florida Legislature was marked by people-centered policymaking that directly improved the lives of veterans, families, and vulnerable residents. Her legislative achievements include:

• House Bill 45 — Provides educational opportunities for disabled veterans. This bill became a national model, inspiring similar legislation in other states. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis held a bill-signing ceremony for six Military bills, including HB 45.
• House Bill 213 — Created a Down Syndrome Awareness specialty license plate, generating both funding and awareness for Down Syndrome initiatives.
• House Bill 13 — Increased property tax exemptions for widows, widowers, blind persons, and persons who are totally disabled from $500 to $5,000. This legislation provided significant financial relief to vulnerable Floridians.
• House Bill 857 (Amended into HB 1347 / SB 1120) — Strengthened regulations on commercial telephone solicitation, protecting consumers from predatory telemarketing practices.

• House Bill 855 — Deregulated barber services, creating a streamlined process for barber certification and expanding access to professional licensing opportunities. The law authorizes licensed barbers to operate mobile services, allowing them to shampoo, cut, and style hair outside traditional barbershops, including in clients’ homes or other approved locations.

• Representative Daisy Morales introduced House Resolution (8069) designating April 2 as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida. The resolution received support through Proclamations from Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Through these efforts, Morales consistently prioritized service, dignity, and opportunity for all Floridians.

Looking Forward: Heritage, Service, and Continuing Advocacy

Today, as the Founder and President of the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, Morales continues to serve her community with the same vision and heart that defined her public office. Her organization promotes education, cultural pride, leadership, and civic engagement among Puerto Ricans in Florida and beyond.

Her legacy is not only legislative—it’s symbolic. Daisy Morales represents unity, humility, and perseverance in the face of division. As Florida and the nation celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, her story stands as a reminder that leadership built on integrity and community service transcends politics.

Through its spotlight on Representative Daisy Morales, Florida National News proudly honors her Puerto Rican heritage and her significant impact as a Latina leader in public service, conservation, and advocacy.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News continues its celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month by spotlighting another Hispanic leader within its network — Managing Editor Monica Hoyos, a proud first-generation Colombian American whose professional journey reflects her passion for communication, cultural connection, and community empowerment.

A Career Built on Connection and Communication

Monica holds a B.A. in Communications and Spanish from Old Dominion University and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in TESOL from George Mason University. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to bridging language and cultural gaps as both a professional interpreter and voiceover actor, bringing clarity and authenticity to English and Spanish audiences alike.

In 2025, Monica joined Florida National News as Managing Editor, Reporter, and Co-Host of the FNN News Podcast en Español, where she uplifts diverse voices through storytelling, interviews, and press coverage that reflect the heart of the Hispanic community.

Empowering Communities Through Leadership

Beyond her work with FNN, Monica serves as an Independent Contractor, working as Lead Project Manager for Esther Wise Community Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and as Senior Project Manager for Aravicta, a minority- and women-owned business offering professional speaking, coaching, and communication training for leaders and executives.

In both roles, Monica leverages her leadership and expertise to strengthen community initiatives, create inclusive programs, and promote representation for underrepresented voices across various industries.

Celebrating Heritage and Representation

Monica embraces her Colombian heritage with pride and purpose. She views Hispanic Heritage Month as both a celebration and a responsibility.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor our roots while celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of our community,” said Hoyos. “I carry my family’s journey and culture with me in every role I take on, and I’m committed to opening doors for others to do the same.”

Through her work, Monica continues to embody the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month — honoring her roots, connecting cultures, and empowering others to raise their voices.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts unveiled a stunning new bronze relief sculpture honoring Chairman Emeritus James H. Pugh, Jr., the visionary leader whose commitment and leadership helped turn the dream of a world-class performing arts center into reality. The piece, created by world-renowned sculptor Paul Day, was revealed during a heartfelt ceremony attended by community leaders, including Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, both of whom shared remarks celebrating Pugh’s remarkable contributions.

A Visionary Who Shaped Orlando’s Cultural Landscape

From 2003 to 2022, James H. Pugh, Jr. served nearly two decades as chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center, guiding the project from concept to completion. His leadership, expertise, and steadfast vision were instrumental in creating one of Orlando’s most iconic cultural institutions.

Alongside his wife, Alexis Pugh, he became the first donor to the project, helping establish the 294-seat Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, a beloved venue that has hosted thousands of regional artists and performances. Under his direction, the Center also opened the 2,700-seat Walt Disney Theater and the acoustically acclaimed Steinmetz Hall, which Architectural Digest named one of the 11 most beautiful theaters in the world.

A Masterpiece by Renowned Artist Paul Day

Commissioned by longtime friend and arts center donor Neal Dempsey, the bronze relief sculpture was crafted by internationally recognized artist Paul Day, whose works include The Meeting Place at St. Pancras Station in London and A Beautiful Day for a Neighbor at Rollins College.

This new artwork captures the essence of Pugh’s leadership, perseverance, and dedication to the arts, symbolizing the collective effort that brought the Dr. Phillips Center to life. “Jim has been instrumental in bringing this dream and our promise of Arts for Every Life to the region,” said Kathy Ramsberger, President & CEO of the Dr. Phillips Center. “His vision and generosity shaped every step of our journey. This sculpture ensures he will always remain part of our story.”

A Lasting Legacy for Future Generations

During the unveiling, Ed Timberlake, Chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of Pugh’s contributions: “Today, we celebrated three powerful forces—transformative vision, unwavering perseverance, and the magic that happens when a community rallies behind a dream. Jim proved that with enough determination and heart, you can turn an ambitious dream into a living, breathing cultural cornerstone.”

Ticketed guests can now view the sculpture on the first tier of the Della Phillips Lobby. The installation was made possible through generous support from Jan & Neal Dempsey, with additional contributions from Valeria & Jim Shapiro and Bill Forness.

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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com