CABA’s 51st Annual Installation Gala raises $600,000 for foundation and pro bono services
CABA President Amanda L. Fernandez: ‘My vision is to build on the already strong foundation established by past leaders and expand the organization by laying the pavers for continued growth and success.’
More than 1,000 guests attended the Cuban American Bar Association’s (CABA) 51st annual installation gala recently at the Intercontinental Hotel in downtown Miami.
The gala raised approximately $600,000 and benefited both the CABA Foundation and CABA Pro Bono Legal Services. This year’s theme ‘El Próximo Paso,’ or The Next Step, represented CABA’s forward-looking vision as it continues to break barriers and set new standards of excellence, according to the organization comprised of lawyers and law students from various backgrounds whose interests include not only those affecting the Cuban community, but human and legal rights’ issues impacting minority communities.
“My vision is to build on the already strong foundation established by past leaders and expand the organization by laying the pavers for continued growth and success,” said Amanda L. Fernandez, CABA’s new president, adding she will continue to advance the organization’s mission through community partnerships while supporting young lawyers through mentorship and leadership programs.
Fernandez currently serves as managing partner of Rivero Mestre and focuses her practice on complex business matters, securities litigation, and cross-border disputes.
U.S. Congressman Carlos Gimenez, from the left, Lourdes Gimenez, Amanda L. Fernandez, Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, and David Efron.
She has been a board member of CABA since 2017 and has served in various positions including vice president and treasurer. She previously served as board president of CABA Pro Bono Legal Services, which offers free legal services to low-income Florida residents.
Fernandez is also active in The Florida Bar Business Law Section and is a past chair of the Business Litigation Committee and chair of the Uniform Commercial Real Estate Receivership Act Task Force. Fernandez is also a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Academy’s Law Alumni Association and has served as a coach for the school’s mock trial team.
The annual gala has become a cornerstone event for the legal community with attendees including prominent attorneys, judges, business, and community leaders. The festivities included dinner, a silent auction and live entertainment by Roberto Torres and Albita.
