Biography

Nydia Margarita Velázquez Serrano, born on March 28, 1953, in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving New York's 7th Congressional District since 1993. She holds the distinction of being the first Puerto Rican woman elected to the U.S. Congress. Throughout her tenure, Velázquez has been a staunch advocate for small businesses, minority rights, and economic development.

Education and Political Experience

• Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, magna cum laude, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras, 1974
  • Master's degree in Political Science, New York University, 1976

• Political Experience:

  • Special Assistant to Congressman Edolphus Towns, 1983
  • First Latina appointed to the New York City Council, 1984
  • Director of the Department of Puerto Rican Community Affairs in the United States, 1986-1989
  • Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, 1992
  • Chairwoman of the House Small Business Committee, 2007-2011 and 2019-2023
  • Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee, 2023-present

Notable Achievements

• First Puerto Rican woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives
• First Latina to chair a full Congressional committee
• Established the "Atrevete" program to empower Latino voters
• Advocated for the cessation of U.S. military exercises in Vieques, Puerto Rico
• Recognized as "Woman of the Year" by Hispanic Business Magazine

Velázquez continues to serve as a leading voice for her constituents, focusing on issues such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and economic opportunities for underserved communities.