Dr. José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. has received multiple international honors recognizing the integrated impact of his scholarship, creative practice, and global arts leadership. He was named International Music Leadership Awards – Distinguished Author of the Season® for Innovative Writing (Academic Research) for sustained research examining music as a strategic force in cultural diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and international engagement. Informed by his work as a U.S. Speaker on Creative Economy & Global Arts Entrepreneurship with the U.S. Department of State, his scholarship bridges the arts, policy, and international relations. Dr. Ruiz’s was also honored at the Georges Bizet International Music Competition (2025 Season), where his original composition "Set Free" received both the Diamond Prize® for National Music and the Special Prize® for Excellent Creativity. Performed by the José Valentino Trio (flute & bass guitar) with collaborators Bruno Miranda (piano) and Jesse Tillman Pitts (drums), the work was recognized for its innovative integration of musical traditions from Puerto Rico, Brazil, and the United States.
National Televised Interview About Latin Music Industry
In this FOX News interview, Associate Professor of Music Business & Entrepreneurship, Dr. José Valentino Ruiz, explains how Latin music has become the fastest-growing genre in the U.S., generating billions in revenue and driving significant local economic impact across major cities. He argues that Latin music’s rise is fueled not only by sound, but by its emphasis on community, cultural unity, and cross-demographic engagement—positioning it as both a cultural and economic force in the American creative economy.