Courtesy of SAAHJ
SAN ANTONIO, TX — Tejano music legend Shelly Lares will receive the prestigious 2025 Corazón de Oro Award from the San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists (SAAHJ), the organization announced this week. The award will be presented during SAAHJ’s annual scholarship and awards gala, set for Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.
Lares, affectionately known as “Little Miss Dynamite,” is being recognized for her extraordinary contributions to music and her continued dedication to community service. A native of San Antonio, she began her professional career at just 10 years old and quickly became a powerhouse in the Tejano music scene. With chart-topping hits, Grammy nominations, and decades of performances, Lares is celebrated not just for her voice, but for her heart.
Though she retired from touring in 2022, Lares hasn’t stepped away from the music industry. She now mentors up-and-coming Tejano artists through her label, Shellshock Records 3, and runs her own recording studio. She also serves as Artist-in-Residence at the University of Texas at San Antonio and supports Harmony Hospice Care of San Antonio through music therapy and engagement, continuing to uplift her community in every way.
“Shelly Lares truly exemplifies the spirit of the Corazón de Oro Award,” said SAAHJ President Isis Romero. “With a career spanning over four decades, she has been a catalyst for positive change in her community, paving the way for an entire new generation of leaders and changemakers.”
The SAAHJ Gala is the organization’s signature fundraising event, which raises scholarship funds for local students pursuing journalism or communications careers. The evening will feature a seated dinner, an awards ceremony, and for this special year, a performance by Shelly Lares and friends presented by gala sponsor Community First Health Plans.
“At Community First Health Plans, we believe in the power of education and community support,” said Judy Razo, Vice President of Experience and Growth. “We’re honored to support the SAAHJ’s mission and to celebrate a true community leader like Shelly Lares.”
Tickets for the gala will be available soon. For more information, visit sahispanicjournalists.com.
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