Hyacinth Foundation, New Jersey’s largest and first HIV services provider, will honor actor/activist Jason Rodriguez, Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz, and Sal Susino and Shannon Preston of Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) at their Annual Gala on Nov. 2, 2024.
The Hyacinth Foundation’s 39th annual Gala and Silent Auction will celebrate those who have stood with them and their clients in the fight to end HIV/AIDS. The Gala will be an evening of dinner, dancing, and includes a silent auction. The program will honor and pay tribute to leaders in the fight to end the epidemic.
2024 Honorees:
The Hyacinth Award
Jason A. Rodriguez — Actor, dancer, and advocate, best known for his role as Lemar Wintour on the groundbreaking hit series Pose and as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ youth. He has been speaking about the importance of sexual health and HIV prevention, particularly through the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). He recently partnered with Gilead as a highly visible spokesperson for the effective use of PrEP, and through his work as a teacher and ballroom leader focuses on supporting and educating LGBTQ youth to thrive and live healthy, active lives.
The Deloris Dockrey Award
Sal Susino — Outreach coordinator for the Prevention Resource Network at the VNA, and Shannon Preston — executive director of HIV services at the VNA. Both will be celebrated and honored for their impactful advocacy and leadership.
The Riki Jacobs Social Justice Award
Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz — A New Jersey state senator, she is being recognized for her unwavering commitment to education reform, social justice, and community development.
For tickets and information visit classy.org/event/2024-hyacinth-gala-and-silent-auction/e614391.
