Recognition is a Spanish Civil Order of Knighthood Bestowed by the King of Spain
WASHINGTON, DC – Hispanic Heritage Foundation President and CEO Antonio Tijerino will be presented with the Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic (Real Orden de Isabel la Católica), which is a Spanish civil order of knighthood bestowed by the King of Spain to recognize an individual’s impact and service to Spain and the promotion of international relations. It is considered among Spain’s highest honors, awarded to both Spanish citizens and foreigners like Tijerino who is of Nicaraguan and Paraguayan descent.
“I am profoundly honored and humbled by this tremendous recognition but mostly I consider the ‘Real Orden’ as a challenge to build stronger cultural and service‑driven bridges between Spain and Hispanic communities across the Americas,” said Tijerino. “I have applauded the work of Ambassador Angeles Moreno Bau in strengthening U.S.-Spain current and historical ties, promoting Spanish as an essential and more valued language in the US among Latinos and all Americans, and fostering cultural and economic collaboration. I share in the goal of empowering Latinos, promoting educational and cultural exchange, and combating disinformation while always recognizing the value proposition Hispanics offer America and the world.”
Created in 1815 by King Ferdinand VII, La Orden honors “extraordinary conduct of a civil nature” that supports Spain and fosters positive international relations on a global scale.
Tijerino has headed HHF for 25 years. HHF is a national nonprofit focused on economic mobility, stronger communities and positive narratives through education, workforce, societal impact, entrepreneurship and leadership. Tijerino is also executive producer of the historic Hispanic Heritage Awards, which are broadcast on PBS. HHF has been recognized by The White House, US Congress, Fortune 500 companies, media outlets, and other nonprofits for his leadership and service to his community and country.
Tijerino has also been recognized with the Ohtli Award the Mexican government, which is the highest honor bestowed outside of Mexico. He serves on numerous national and local nonprofit boards has been a strong supporter of immigrants/refugees/migrants/asylum seekers from their home countries to the border to communities across the US.
Tijerino is recognized as an “influencer” on LinkedIn and is considered a voice for the Latino community through his writing, speaking, and social media presence to provide information, positive narratives, and a call to action. He also hosts the award-winning Fritanga Podcast and co-produced the first Latino-themed Minecraft game played by up to 30 million youth. He is a proud graduate of the University of Maryland and was honored with a Doctorate of Humane Letters from The Chicago School. He lives in his hometown of Washington, DC, with his family.
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