Among the 250 students who plan to receive their diplomas and degrees at Florida Technical College's upcoming graduation ceremony, there will be one recipient who is well-known to Latin music fans: The Godfather of Salsa, Andy Montañez. The singer and musician will be granted an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities for his contributions to humanitarian efforts during the ceremony, scheduled for Friday, January 27, in Orlando.

Through the years, Mr. Montañez has contributed to humanitarian efforts through various benefit concerts. Montañez has raised significant funds for victims of natural disasters in various countries, including Haiti, Nicaragua, and Cuba. He has also donated his talent, efforts and given material donations to numerous charitable organizations in Puerto Rico. Some of them are: SER de Puerto Rico, Fundación Puertorriqueña Síndrome Down (Puerto Rican Foundation for Down Syndrome), Hogar del Buen Pastor (Good Shepherd's Home), and several Puerto Rican correctional facilities. These contributions showcase Andy's generous philanthropic spirit.

Using his image and his music to promote nutrition is another way in which Mr. Montañez has helped the community. "Beginning in 2007, the singer filmed several television advertisements on nutrition for the Puerto Rico Department of Family Affairs, motivating thousands of citizens to improve their health," elaborates Dr. David Penn, Provost of FTC. "Recently honored with a Latin Grammy Award, Montañez has also contributed to the Humanities for over 30 years through his worldwide Salsa performances and by pioneering Salsaton, a combination of Salsa and Reggaeton musical styles," added Dr. Penn.

"Through his career and personal accomplishments, Mr. Montañez is an example of perseverance and self-improvement," expressed David Ruggieri, President and Chief Executive Officer of Florida Technical College. "His musical innovations have earned him a distinguished place in Latin American musical history, while his humanitarian efforts have earned him a special place in the hearts of his people," he added.