At Clayco, we believe that the strength of our company lies in the remarkable people who bring passion and leadership to every project. We are proud to celebrate our Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Carmen Hernandez, for her outstanding contributions both within Clayco and the broader community. Carmen has been honored with the prestigious Felisa Rincón de Gautier Distinguished Award, a strong symbol of her enduring commitment to excellence!
The Puerto Rican Arts Alliance (PRAA) established this award in 2017 to honor Felisa Rincón de Gautier, the first woman elected mayor of a capital city in the Americas. The PRAA annual awards ceremony recognizes distinguished community leaders and their exceptional service. Inspired by Ms. Rincon de Gautier’s dedication to her community, women, and her country, this tribute spotlights individuals who have made a significantly positive impact.
Congratulations to Carmen, one of Clayco’s very own, along with Nereida Aviles, Executive Assistant to the Executive Clerk of Facility Management; Nydia Castillo, former CPS principal, actor, and chef; Eduardo Camacho, former PRAA board member; and Adela Cepeda, Business Finance & Capital Markets Leader, for earning this award. Each of these individuals represents what it means to put people first in everything they do!
A Career Built on Leadership and Impact
Since 2013, Carmen has been an integral part of the Clayco family, leading with integrity and determination. Her expertise in navigating complex, large-scale construction and design-build projects has made a lasting impact on our company and our clients. From hospitals and university buildings to advanced manufacturing facilities and data centers, Carmen has ensured that every project is not only successful but also delivers lasting value to the communities we serve.
In addition to her exceptional work at Clayco, Carmen has also been inducted into the Society of Illinois Construction Attorneys and is an advocate for cultural and educational initiatives. She serves on the boards of the PRAA Advisory Committee as well as the DuSable Black History Museum & Education Center in Chicago. In New York, she serves on the Hispanic International Television Network (HITN), demonstrating her commitment to uplifting and celebrating diverse voices.
Beyond the Boardroom
Carmen’s leadership extends far past her professional expertise. Her adventurous spirit and enthusiasm are evident in everything she does. Whether riding her 2003 Harley Softail Heritage Classic across Europe, tending to her garden, or hitting the ski slopes, she brings energy and passion to all aspects of her life.
I am inspired by Carmen’s dedication and thrilled to see her receive this well-deserved recognition. The Felisa Rincón de Gautier Distinguished Award highlights her unwavering commitment to making a difference, both at Clayco and in the neighborhoods she touches. Carmen embodies a relentless drive to go BEYOND.
Congratulations, Carmen, on this incredible achievement. We are so fortunate to have you on our talented Clayco team, and I look forward to seeing your continued impact for years to come!
