With this year’s convention drawing to a close, NAHJ looked back on the past and honored veteran journalists and looked forward to next year’s event.

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By Nassdja Valentin
Latino Reporter

After intensive days of networking, training and discussion, everyone was ready to party, Puerto-Rican style, in long dresses, impeccable suits and dancing shoes.

“I was in workshops for nine hours,” said Davina Ferrerira, a journalism student at UCLA.

Ferrerira was one of many National Association of Hispanic Journalists convention-goers who attended the Hall of Fame Gala & El Gran Baile.

NAHJ honored longtime journalism veterans Geraldo Rivera, Ysabel Duron, Juan Gonzalez and Manuel Suarez.

Duron, the only woman honored this year, said more female inductees to the Hall of Fame are needed.

“Come on, we can do better,” she said.

The Hall of Fame has so far inducted only six women.

Each honoree received a standing ovation. Manuel Suarez Jr. accepted the honor for his father.

Student Ferreira said it was great to learn about the inductees’ background. Seeing their inductees’ work was “very inspirational,” she said.

Even through the long days, many found time to enjoy everything Puerto Rico has to offer.

With the convention drawing to a close, many attendees said they had enjoyed their time in Puerto Rico.

NBC Today Show Producer Feliciano Garcia expressed his love for mofongo and churrasco, Puerto Rican music and the friendly environment.

“I enjoy the culture,” Garcia said. “Watching the people here — they are very alive, very vibrant. It’s inspiring. I like this island a lot.”

As people step away from the sand and beaches, they look forward to heading to Garcia’s hometown, Denver, for the 2010 convention.

Garcia said he hopes to be more involved next year. He said he had some advice for people who head to Denver next summer.

“Go for a hike in the mountains,” he said. It’s beautiful and absolutely incredible.”

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