WHO WE ARE
Through cultural and educational activities, the Institute strengthens knowledge, understanding, and peace between the U.S. and the Spanish-speaking world.
Our History and Vision
The Queen Sofía Spanish Institute is a New York-based nonprofit corporation founded in 1954 by a group of American Hispanophiles, who sought to stimulate American interest in the art, culture, customs, language, literature and history of Spain and Spanish-speaking world. Today, the QSSI keeps this vision current by striving to share the contributions of Spanish-speakers to the United States and by showcasing the excellence of the Spanish-speaking world in numerous fields so that lasting ties of friendship may be formed, mutual understanding promoted, and bonds of peace strengthened.
WHAT WE DO
The Institute is committed to advancing mutual cultural appreciation and knowledge between the U.S. and Spanish-speaking countries through different initiatives, including:
Co-sponsoring lectures, exhibitions, and concerts
Hosting cultural events to bring together and promote awareness of Hispanic and US intellectuals
Co-sponsoring educational partnerships and lectures with NYC public schools and universities
Honoring distinguished persons or organizations that contribute to the international appreciation of Spain, the U.S. and Latin America
Honoring world-class Spanish to English translators with the annual Translation Prize
As a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to fulfill our mission and promote Hispanic cultural appreciation, we rely on donations and volunteers.
Our Patroness
In 2003, Queen Sofía accepted the Board of Directors’ unanimous request to rename the Institute in her honor, in recognition of her unwavering support of the mission. Her Majesty Queen Sofía of Spain is an avid patron of the Institute and maintains an active role in promoting Spanish culture and unity in the Americas.
Her Majesty Queen Sofía of Spain became a prominent figure in the Spanish Monarchy and acquired her official title in 1975 when her husband King Juan Carlos I acceded to the throne. Born in Athens, Greece, Her Majesty is the eldest daughter of King Paul and Queen Frederica of Greece. She married King Juan Carlos I in 1962. Her family belongs to one of Europe’s oldest Royal Households.
In June of 2014, King Juan Carlos I abdicated the throne and their son Philip VI and his wife, Letizia, became the reigning King and Queen of Spain.
Throughout her reign, Queen Sofía focused on charitable works with a special interest in medicine. She is the Executive President of the Queen Sofía Foundation, an Alzheimer’s center housing 150 patients and a forensic lab in Madrid, and is Honorary President of the Queen Sofía Music School. Her Majesty is also involved with international projects closely related to her own personal interests which include the environment, international cooperation and development, and micro-financing.
The Board of Directors is responsible for setting strategic goals to further the Institute’s mission and to contribute their time, financial support and professional abilities, as needed.
Chairman’s Advisory Council
The Advisory Council is composed of individuals who bring unique knowledge and experience to support the Board of Directors in order to enhance the effectiveness of the leadership in the Institute.
Consul General Caridad Batalla, Ex Officio
Reinaldo Herrera
Gonzalo Ulloa
GENERAL STAFF
Begonia Santos
Executive Director
Peggy Holder-Jones
Administrative and Accounting Director
Isabel Rivero
Senior Media and Program Development Manager
Celia Maldonado
Program and Media Associate
Our Sponsors
Our sponsors help us fulfill our mission to promote Hispanic cultural appreciation and education in the U.S.
Our Partners
The Institute partners with many like-minded organizations to help progress its mission and widen its reach.
About the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute
