09/10/2025
The 64th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade of Newark, NJ is proud to announce:
🎉 Carmen Medina as the 2025 Reina de Oro of the Boricua Parade!
Meet Carmen Medina:
🇵🇷 Born in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Carmen E. Medina has dedicated her life to serving and uplifting her community. A proud alumna of St. Michael’s Grammar School, St. Vincent Academy, and Barringer High School, Carmen began her professional career in pediatrics in 1974, working alongside the beloved Dr. Barbara Ann Sonowski. When Dr. March P. Roberts took over the practice in 1981, Carmen continued her service with the same dedication, touching countless lives over 47 years.
In 1971, Carmen was crowned Miss Puerto Rico of the Statewide Parade, a moment of pride both for her and Newark’s Puerto Rican community. She has remained deeply connected to her cultural heritage through the Barranquiteños organization and as a performer with the plena group Sabor Boricua.
Beyond her professional and cultural contributions, Carmen is known for her passion for dance. An avid salsa dancer and licensed Zumba instructor for over a decade, she inspires others with her motto: “There is no age limit in dance.” In retirement, she continues sharing that joy, especially with seniors.
Her impact has been recognized with honors such as the 2024 “Benevolent Mother of the Year” Award from Mujeres de Ayer, Hoy y Siempre, Inc. Yet, above all her achievements, Carmen considers her greatest blessing to be her son, Sam—a source of pride and love that defines her life’s journey.
Please join us in celebrating and congratulating Carmen Medina as our distinguished 2025 Reina de Oro! 🇵🇷
📅 Save the Date:
Sunday, September 21, 2025
🕛 Parade kicks off at 12 PM
📍 Route: Avenida Puerto Rico (via Bloomfield Avenue to 1st Avenue)
🎶 MUSIC & BORICUA FESTIVAL
Immediately following the parade at Parque Los Leones (Park & Lake)
Enjoy live music, food, culture, and community pride!
For more information or to participate, please visit:
🌐 www.PRDPNJ.org
¡Wepa! 🇵🇷 Let’s celebrate our heritage, unity, and pride together!