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Signature Awards Program Held on Oct . 22 , Presented 1 1 Awards, Recognizing Excellence Across Sectors, Small Business, One2Watch, Jay Malina Leadership Award, and New Founders’ Award
MIAMI, FL – October 23, 2025 – The Beacon Council Foundation together with the Miami-Dade Beacon Council, the County’s official public-private economic development partnership, today announced the successful close of the 2025 Beacon Award season, one of the region’s most anticipated showcases of leadership and collaboration. With more than 600 guests representing more than 60 leading companies that span a dozen sectors alongside 11 awards with three new ones including the Founders’ Award celebrating its 40-year legacy, the event ushered in the next chapter of inclusive growth, innovation, and opportunity for the region. Held on Oct. 22, at the Ziff Ballet House at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, the event also marked the first Beacon Awards program held since the pandemic in 2020.
“Miami has undergone an extraordinary transformation over the past several years, and the momentum we are experiencing is powered by people,” said Rodrick T. Miller, President and CEO, Miami-Dade Beacon Council. “The return of the Beacon Awards reflects that dynamic energy, and our honorees represent the vision and collaboration driving Miami’s rise as a world-class business destination.”
2025 Beacon Award Recipients
Special Honorees:
• Founders’ Award: Awarded to Alexandra Villoch, CEO of the Baptist Health Foundation, who was unanimously selected as the inaugural recipient of the Founders’ Award for serving as a champion for healthcare, education, and economic opportunity in Miami.
• Jay Malina Leadership Award (2025): Awarded to the Mas Family, Jorge Mas, Juan Carlos Mas, and José R. Mas, in recognition of their commitment to inclusive economic progress, investing in future leaders, and opening doors of opportunity that will shape Miami for generations to come.
• Jay Malina Leadership Award (2020): Originally named to Dr. Eduardo J. Padrón, President Emeritus of Miami Dade College, in 2020 prior to the pandemic, and awarded this year in recognition of his impact on organizations and governments around the world, cementing his legacy as one of Miami’s most transformative leaders.
• One2Watch Award: Austin Hollo of Florida East Coast Realty recognized for cultivating Miami’s next generation of leaders through education, mentorship, and industry engagement alongside his commitment to reshaping Greater Miami as a resilient, forward-thinking global city.
• Small Business Award: Kind Designs recognized for pioneering climate tech with its Living Seawalls, a first in the country with 3D-printed structures that double as artificial reefs, filtering millions of gallons of water and protecting homes from flooding.
Sector Awards:
• Aviation & Aerospace: AAR Corp.
• Finance: Altura Capital
• Life Sciences & Healthcare: Nicklaus Children’s Health System
• Professional Services: Greenberg Traurig
• Technology: Kaseya
• Trade & Logistics: MSC Cruises
Miami’s Spirit Takes Center Stage
This year’s program was emceed by Javier Romero, TelevisaUnivision radio and TV host and National Radio Hall of Famer, who brought his signature energy to the stage. Set against the backdrop of the Ziff Ballet House at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, the event was a celebration of Miami’s vibrancy and spirit. The room was lit in purple and pink hues accented by touches of gold and tropical florals, a nod to the city’s distinct rhythm and style. Local performers from New World Symphony, Florida Memorial University Drumline, and more blended art, culture, and community into an evening that was undeniably Miami.
Since its inception, the Beacon Awards have recognized individuals companies that embody excellence in job creation, investment, and community impact. This year’s celebration reaffirmed that legacy while looking ahead to the next generation of leaders driving innovation and economic mobility.
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About the Miami-Dade Beacon Council
The Miami-Dade Beacon Council, a 501(C) 6, is the County’s official economic development partnership, focused on driving a more sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economy for Greater Miami. Since 1985, The Beacon Council has attracted more than 160,000 new jobs and $8.4 billion in investments to the region. The awards are managed by The Beacon Council Foundation a 501(C) 3, a Florida not-for-profit organization created exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. For more information, visit The Beacon Council’s website.
About the Miami-Dade Beacon Council Foundation
The Miami-Dade Beacon Council is the sole member of the Foundation and has oversight and control over the Foundation’s fiscal and programmatic activities. The Beacon Awards program is a component of the current One Community One Goal (OCOG) initiative to diversify the local economy and promote higher-paying jobs. For more information on the Foundation, click here.
Press Contact:
press@beaconcouncil.com
