Geanilda Vásquez: A Life of Service, Leadership, and Commitment to the Dominican Community
By Angel Martinez
From Moca, in the heart of the Dominican Republic, to Miami, where she currently serves as Consul General, Geanilda Vásquez’s career is a testament to perseverance, leadership, and dedication to public service. With a career spanning politics, public administration, business, and diplomacy, her impact on the Dominican community has been undeniable.
A Legacy of Hard Work and Achievement
Geanilda Vásquez was born in Moca, DR into a hardworking family. The daughter of Diego Vásquez (deceased) and Mónica Almanzar, she is the mother of three children: Frangie, Marielle, and Diego Vásquez Vásquez, and the proud grandmother of Manuel Alejandro. Her academic background is as extensive as her professional experience. She holds a Doctorate in Law, specializing in civil and commercial law, land legislation, and insurance law. She has also pursued postgraduate studies in public management, political science, governmental marketing, and process management, and is currently completing another master’s degree in public administration and a Doctorate in Democratic Society, State, and Law.
Her career in the private sector began in the insurance industry, where she rose to become the Manager of Banreservas Insurance, spearheading the creation of Seguros Banreservas. Later, she established her own consulting and brokerage firm, Vásquez Asociados, which continues to operate successfully. In the financial sector, she led CEMPRISA, securing a significant client portfolio in the Dominican financial market.
In the energy sector, she played a key role in the development of fiber optic projects and electric highways while serving on the Board of Directors of the Dominican Corporation of State Electric Companies (CDEEE). She later served as Vice President of the Board of Directors of EDENORTE.
Her influence also extended to the agricultural sector, where she directs Proyecto Diego Vásquez, a company that produces over one million chickens per year. She is currently the Director of Poultry at Confenagro, Vice President of Confenagro Mujer, and a member of the Dominican Republic’s National Livestock Fair Board.
Political Leadership: Breaking Barriers
Geanilda Vásquez has been a trailblazer in Dominican politics. Her rise within the Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD) led her to become the first woman to hold the position of National Secretary of Organization. As a councilwoman in the National District in 2006, she won with overwhelming support in 80% of the capital’s political districts.
In 2012, she played an instrumental role in the founding of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), becoming its first Acting President. In 2014, she made history by launching her presidential pre-candidacy and becoming the first woman to run in an internal PRM convention.
Her role in structuring the PRM led her to coordinate the 2016 presidential campaign, solidifying the party as the country’s main opposition force. In 2020, following the PRM’s electoral victory, she was appointed Minister of State without Portfolio of the Presidency, where she served as a liaison between the government and various business, industrial, and social sectors.
Currently, she leads the Proyecto de Rescate Democrático Foundation, focusing on political education and citizen empowerment through leadership courses, community development, and the promotion of patriotic values.
Diplomacy with “Passion for Service”
Since February 2023, Geanilda Vásquez has served as Consul General of the Dominican Republic in Miami, with a strong commitment to enhancing the country’s image and improving consular services for the Dominican diaspora in Florida. Under the motto “Passion for Service”, she has implemented a series of significant improvements at the consulate, including:
• Extended office hours for greater accessibility.
• Reduced costs for passports and consular procedures.
• Introduction of a Valet Parking service for user convenience.
• Organization of community and cultural events through the Dominican Institute Abroad (INDEX).
One of her greatest achievements has been the inauguration of the Hall of the Provinces, a space within the consulate dedicated to promoting Dominican identity and culture. Her efforts have been recognized by the Miami Mayor’s Office, which declared the “Dominican-American Heritage Week”, to be celebrated annually from February 22 to 28.
Additionally, Vásquez remains actively involved in philanthropic, sports, religious, and political events, strengthening the ties between the Dominican diaspora and their homeland.
Commitment to Dominican Women: International Women’s Day Celebration
Geanilda Vásquez’s commitment to empowering Dominican women was evident in her recent International Women’s Day celebration, held yesterday at the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Miami. This special event honored Dominican women who have made a lasting impact in various fields, with a special tribute to artist Meliza Ruby.
Through her artwork, Meliza Ruby has worked to raise awareness and visibility for the Dominican community abroad. Her exhibition at this event was endorsed by Consul Vásquez, who reaffirmed her commitment to culture and the recognition of women’s fundamental role in society. This celebration not only highlighted the creativity and talent of Dominican women but also served as a reminder of the importance of gender equality and the ongoing fight for a more just and inclusive society.
In her speech, Geanilda Vásquez emphasized that the Dominican Republic has the potential to shine on its own when it supports talent and equality. From the heroic Mirabal Sisters to the women who break barriers today, this event was an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain.
Commitment to the Dominican Community
Beyond her diplomatic role, Geanilda Vásquez has worked tirelessly to ensure that Dominicans abroad feel represented and supported. Through her leadership, the Dominican community in Florida has seen strengthened ties with the Dominican Republic, reflecting a genuine commitment to improving their conditions and opportunities.
With a career marked by service and perseverance, Geanilda Vásquez continues to elevate the prestige of the Dominican Republic on the international stage. Her legacy is a testament to the idea that dedication, discipline, and passion can turn any challenge into an opportunity to make history.
Photo Credit: diariolasamericas.com Cónsul de República Dominicana en Miami, Geanilda Vásquez.
SUREIDY RODRÍGUEZ / DLA
