Haute 100 Update: Gloria Estefan Receives 2011 Ultimate Latina Award in Miami Beach

Gloria Estefan was the guest of honor at the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s (USHCC) 32^nd Annual National Convention & Business Expo at Miami Beach’s luxurious Fontainebleau Hotel this Monday, Sept. 19. The seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter was in attendance as the recipient of the USHCC’s 2011 Ultimate Latina Award, which honors exceptional Latina women across the nation.

In her acceptance speech, Estefan revealed that, contrary to popular belief, she is the one who handles the monetary side of her career – not her husband Emilio Estefan. “We’re very different, we’re balanced. Believe it or not, he hates the financial side, “ she revealed. “He’s on top of every single business, making sure it runs right. But he doesn’t want to sit down and listen to a bunch of numbers. So I do that part, and I love it quite honestly.”

Estefan went on to praise her husband, his support throughout her career, and revealed that he was her first boyfriend and only love. “He found the last Latina virgin of the 70s,” she joked.

“Gloria Estefan is an inspiration not only for her extraordinary talent and admirable achievements in the community, but also for her savvy as an entrepreneur and the embodiment of the American success story,” added USHCC President and CEO Javier Palomarez.

Estefan has been honored several times throughout her career, including being immortalized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded the Ellis Island Congressional Medal of Honor (the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a naturalized U.S. citizen), has sold over 90 million albums, and authored two New York Times best-selling children’s books, and much more.

“The USHCC is proud to honor Latina women across the nation who continue to serve, lead, and act as role models for our youth,” said USHCC Board of Directors Secretary and 2011 Convention Chairman Gabriel Pascual. “Our 2011 Ultimate Latina, Gloria Estefan, exemplifies the values of the Hispanic community and is a testament to the achievements of Latinas in our nation.”

Our Haute 100 list details the accomplishments of the most influential people in each of our markets. To see the entire Haute 100 Miami list, click here.