Ileana Ros-Lehtinen

Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
Author: U.S. Congress, Source: http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov, Official Congressional portrait, Public Domain

Born July 15, 1942 in Cuba

First Hispanic woman to be elected to US Congress, where she served in the House of Representatives.

Prior to that she was the 1st Cuban- American elected to the Florida State House, and was known for fighting for tuition assistance for students.

A moderate Republican who was very involved in international relations, she served as Chairwoman on the Foreign Affairs Committee.

Founded a private elementary school where she served as both Principal and teacher.

Sponsor of legislation to protect women and ensure their safety and security in the home. 

Her family immigrated to the US when she was only 7.