AAHHE William Aguilar Cultural Arts Award

The AAHHE William Aguilar Cultural Arts Award recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to the understanding of the national Latino community and/or culture through the fine, creative, and performing arts.

2026 William Aguilar Cultural Arts Award Recipient

Yosimar Reyes, BA
Santa Clara County Poet
San Francisco State University/Prieto LLC

Yosimar Reyes is the current Santa Clara County Poet Laureate and was named the 2024 Creative Ambassador by the City of San José.

A writer, poet, and performer, Reyes is widely recognized for his compelling storytelling and exploration of the undocumented and queer experience. 

His autobiographical solo show Prieto—a recipient of the Gerbode Special Awards in the Arts—has toured nationally to universities and cultural institutions across the country.

Reyes is currently developing two new theatrical works: No Llegamos Aquí Solos, in collaboration with Teatro Visión (premiering Spring 2026), and Si Dios Quiere, Regreso, a solo piece set to premiere in Fall 2026.

List of Past William Aguilar Cultural Arts Award Recipients: