2026 Meet our Judges

Conoce a nuestras jueces

Presiding Jugde - Gisselys Rodriguez

Gissely Rodriguez

Educator of the Bethlehem Area School District and a passionate advocate for Puerto Rican arts and culture. Originally from Puerto Rico, she has participated in theater productions, cultural events, and professional dance performances in tango, salsa, and samba throughout the island. Through her work in education and community engagement, she promotes cultural awareness, celebrates Puerto Rican heritage, and helps preserve its traditions for future generations.

Judge - Iris Delgado

Iris Delgado Biography:

Iris Delgado, was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, and moved to Allentown, Pennsylvania, in 2000, where I have proudly called home for the past 26 years.

Today, she works in the real estate industry, where "1 am passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their homeownership goals." Her background, dedication, and commitment to serving her community allow her to provide personalized guidance and exceptional service to her clients.

As both a proud Puerto Rican and a longtime resident of Allentown, "I value building lasting relationships and making a positive impact in the community I proudly serve."

Judge - María Teresa Donate

María Teresa Donate Bio

Professor Emerita, Northampton Community College

María Teresa Donate joined NCC in 1992 as Director of Admissions, capping off a distinguished career in higher education administration that spans institutions in Puerto Rico and Florida.

A passionate advocate for educational equity, she has served as a vital community leader, holding board positions with the United Way and the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, and founding the Latino Leadership Alliance of the Lehigh Valley. Her enduring legacy is rooted in student support, having established multiple permanent scholarship endowments—including the Hispanic Caucus Dreamers Scholarship—to help Latino students pursue higher education.

She lives with her husband, Ricardo, and is the proud mother of three accomplished children.