JERSEY CITY, NJ — The Pan American Concerned Citizens Action League, Inc. (PACCAL) will host its International Women’s History Month celebration on March 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Marriott Newark Airport Hotel, located at 1 Hotel Road, Newark, NJ. This event continues the tradition of honoring women’s contributions, which has been celebrated since 1997 when Women’s History Month became an officially recognized public observance in the U.S. Each March, presidents issue proclamations to recognize women’s vital contributions across all fields.
Building on this national recognition, Linda Mayo, the founder of PACCAL and former Deputy Mayor of Jersey City, took the initiative in 1998 to further highlight the achievements and leadership of women at the local level. Through her efforts, PACCAL has played a key role in amplifying women’s voices and accomplishments, making this annual celebration a meaningful part of the ongoing recognition of their impactful roles in society.
PACCAL is honoring 14 women achievers and leaders in their field this year.
Lt. Col. Roselyn Clemente-Fuentes, MD, Aerospace Medicine. She is a pioneering leader in aerospace and operational medicine, ensuring military readiness and advancing battlefield healthcare. Her research, emergency response, and mentorship expertise empower the next generation of military physicians.
Jade Borromeo Flinn, M.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N., C.N.R.N. – Bio-Medical Research. A trailblazing nurse educator and clinical researcher, she pioneered infectious disease preparedness and biomedical safety at Johns Hopkins. Her leadership empowers healthcare professionals, advances pandemic responses, and strengthens global health security.
Jane Concepcion Magno, RN, CNOR – Orthopedics Nursing. A pillar of excellence in orthopedic nursing, Magno combines 40+ years of expertise with a passion for mentorship. Her leadership empowers Filipino nurses, advances patient care, and strengthens the future of healthcare.
Noemi Fulgencio – Nursing Management – A transformational nursing leader, Fulgencio empowers healthcare teams through mentorship, innovation, and patient-centered excellence. Her legacy in nursing management continues to inspire future generations.
Suzalin Llena – PACCAL Mother of the Year – Llena is a pillar of strength and compassion, shaping generations through sacrifice, leadership, and unwavering love. Her legacy empowers communities, proving that resilience and generosity transform lives.
Teresa Damitos — Global Community Leadership. Damitos is a global community advocate and nursing leader who transforms lives through humanitarian missions, healthcare advocacy, and service-driven leadership. Her unwavering dedication empowers communities, honors healthcare heroes, and creates lasting global impact.
Nikki Schaul— Young Global Leadership. As a transformational leader, she empowers diverse voices and shapes future changemakers through inclusive leadership and global mentorship. Her vision drives sustainable impact, inspiring leaders to create lasting change.
Atty. Maria Elizabeth J. Cueva—Human Rights Lawyer A fearless advocate for justice, Cueva champions civil rights, labor equality, and legal access for marginalized communities. Her leadership empowers, protects, and inspires future generations in the fight for justice.
Elaine Magalona Schroeder—Business Entrepreneur. A visionary entrepreneur, Magalona-Schroeder empowers Filipino artisans and preserves heritage through Hibla Limited LLC. Her leadership fosters economic growth, cultural pride, and generational empowerment.
Rhodora Villanueva – Health Caregiving. A compassionate caregiving leader, Villanueva dedicates her life to dignified elderly care while uplifting her family and community. Her resilience and devotion empower lives, preserve heritage, and inspire through service.
Mary Ann Rivera—Business in Financial Wellness. Mary Ann Rivera is a transformative leader in financial wellness. She empowers communities through strategic financial planning, mentorship, and economic growth. Her leadership cultivates financial security, literacy, and lasting prosperity.
Dr. Sally Francisco, EdD, OL, MSN, RN— Leadership in Nursing. Francisco is a transformational nursing leader. She advocates for veterans’ healthcare, mentors future nurses, and uplifts underserved communities through service and innovation. Her unwavering dedication elevates patient care, empowers nurses, and inspires change in healthcare.
Mary Ann Kapunan, BSN, RN— Community Leadership. Kapunan is a transformative community leader who empowers Filipino nurses, strengthens cultural heritage, and drives advocacy through service and leadership. Her unwavering dedication fosters unity, uplifts indigenous artisans, and inspires future generations.
Maine Anderson— Community Economic Growth Leader. A trailblazing leader, Anderson empowers Filipino entrepreneurs through Pinoys of New York, driving economic growth and creating opportunities for small businesses to thrive. Her visionary leadership fosters resilience, unity, and success in the Filipino-American community.
Additionally, PACCAL will recognize two exceptional women as Honorary Chairpersons of the event due to their excellence in their fields and commitment to the positive narrative for women: Senen Cabalfin and Linda Limcaco.
This year’s event is chaired by Rheanne Lagman and supported by the new Board President, Freddy Burke, and Executive Director, Ria Serrano.
–With Jay Domingo
