In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. (GIF) proudly partnered with the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center — part of Jackson Health System — to support a powerful and impactful Sexual Assault Awareness Month Symposium held on April 21, 2026, at Miami Dade College – West Campus.
Bringing together healthcare professionals, students, advocates, survivors, and community leaders, the symposium served as a vital platform for education, dialogue, and collective action. This year's theme — “Rooted in Advocacy. Rising in Strength. Moving Forward Together.” — reflected not only the resilience of survivors but also the unwavering commitment of organizations and leaders dedicated to prevention, healing, and justice.
For more than five decades, the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center has been a cornerstone of survivor-centered care in Miami-Dade County. The symposium celebrated this enduring legacy while reinforcing the importance of continued advocacy, education, and community engagement.
Honoring Champions of Change
A highlight of the symposium was the Awards Ceremony — “Honoring Champions of Change” — which recognized outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication has made a meaningful impact in the lives of survivors and underserved communities.
Awards presented included:
- Safe Haven Leadership Award — Carlos A. Migoya
- Community Philanthropy for Survivors Award — Miami Springs Woman's Club, Angela Rollins (FPL, West Palm Beach), Debbi M. Alfonso (FPL, Fort Lauderdale)
- Collaborative Impact Award — Miami Dade College, West Campus
- Distinguished Service Award — Kristi House, Nancy J. Cotterman Center
- Community Service Award — Sonia Murugesan, Emma Vesval, Natalie Perkins
- Advocacy Champion Award — Emerly Rojas (Hialeah PD), Elke Perez (MDSO), Latoya R. Sampson (RTC)
- Healthcare Heroes Award — Karen B. Von Wald
These honorees exemplify leadership, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to advocacy, prevention, and survivor support.
Adding to this moment of recognition, Honorable Daniela Jean, Commissioner for the City of North Miami Beach, presented a special proclamation honoring Carlos A. Migoya for his impactful legacy in advancing health equity and supporting underserved communities. In a powerful tribute, she officially proclaimed “Migoya Day” in the City of North Miami Beach, recognizing his enduring contributions and leadership in public health and community service.
Leadership and Impact
Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. remains deeply committed to addressing gender-based violence and advancing initiatives that promote awareness, prevention, and empowerment. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, GIF continues to amplify voices, foster education, and support survivors.
A highlight of the event was the exceptional leadership demonstrated by Dr. Judith Oriental-Pierre, MD — Executive Director of the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center and 2nd Vice-Chair of GIF. Under her guidance, the symposium was executed with excellence, reflecting a deep commitment to advocacy and survivor support. GIF extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Oriental-Pierre and her dedicated team for delivering a truly impactful and successful event.
The symposium was expertly moderated by Dr. Guillermo R. Valdes — Deputy Director of Public Relations and Communications for GIF, Director of the South Region of the Florida Nurses Association, and Chairperson of the RN-BSN Program at the Benjamín León School of Nursing at Miami Dade College. His thoughtful facilitation and leadership fostered engaging dialogue and meaningful reflection throughout the program.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Dr. Marie O. Etienne, President of Global Innovative Foundation, Inc., shared:
“Sexual Assault Awareness Month calls us to move beyond awareness into action. At Global Innovative Foundation, we are committed to advancing survivor-centered care, strengthening community partnerships, and empowering voices that too often go unheard. Together, we can create safer communities rooted in dignity, respect, and justice for all.”
Recognizing Community Service
The Community Service Award celebrated three individuals whose sustained, often-unseen work has strengthened Miami-Dade's network of survivor support: Sonia Murugesan, Emma Vesval, and Natalie Perkins. Their recognition reflects the symposium's emphasis on collective action — that protecting survivors is not a single institution's work, but a community's ongoing commitment.
The Advocacy Champion Award, presented to Emerly Rojas of the Hialeah Police Department, Elke Perez of the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, and Latoya R. Sampson of the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center, recognized the law enforcement and clinical advocates who stand beside survivors from first response through recovery.
Moving Forward Together
As communities continue to confront the realities of sexual violence, events like this symposium serve as a reminder that awareness must be paired with action. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, we can collectively build a future where every individual feels safe, supported, and empowered.
The Nurses Magazine® is proud to recognize the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center, Global Innovative Foundation, Inc., Miami Dade College West Campus, and every honoree whose work moves this mission forward — from awareness, to strength, to lasting change.