Dr. Sonia Velez
Saint Joseph’s Medical Center is pleased to announce that Sonia A. Velez, MD, JD has been named the 2023 Ambassador for Health for the Yonkers Puerto Rican/Hispanic Parade to be held on June 4.
“It will be our honor and privilege to celebrate your achievements with the
community by honoring you as our 2023 Yonkers Puerto Rican / Hispanic Day
Parade “Ambassador for Health”. Your participation will not only be an inspiration
for the community, but it will also showcase the initiative, leadership and work ethic required to be successful in today’s society,” said Luis A. Muniz, Jr, President of the Yonkers Hispanic Cultural Foundation.
Dr. Velez, received her sash on May 15 at an event held at La Lanterna Restaurant attended by Saint Joseph’s Medical Center President and CEO Michael Spicer, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, members of the Yonkers City Council and various community dignitaries. Dr. Velez will be recognized at the June 1st flag raising ceremony at City Hall and at the June 4th Parade.
Born in Spanish Harlem to Puerto Rican parents, Dr. Velez became the first in her family to attend college. Upon graduating from Fordham University with a bachelor’s degree in biology, Dr. Velez enrolled in the American University of the Caribbean for her medical studies. She attended and graduated from Boston University School of Law. Following her graduation from law school, Dr. Velez decided to return to her first passion – Medicine.
Dr. Velez completed her residency in Family Medicine at Saint Joseph’s Medical Center where she served as a chief resident. Dr. Velez continued her work in the residency program as a faculty member and in 2006 was appointed Program Director of the Family Medicine Residency Program. In addition to her work and dedication to medical education, Dr. Velez has become an integral part of the community in Yonkers where she serves as a member of the Mayor’s Health Advisory Board for City of Yonkers since 2018.
The Yonkers Hispanic Cultural Foundation seeks to advance participation and
understanding of Hispanic and Latino cultural traditions. Their functions and activities will emphasize the empowerment of arts, culture and traditions by preserving the cultural affiliations within The City of Yonkers and the County of Westchester.
