At Viva La Mujer, Emily Rufino is more than a honoree — she’s a symbol. A symbol of what it means to lead with grace, serve with heart, and show up for your community with quiet, unshakable power. Her presence commands attention not because she seeks the spotlight, but because her actions speak louder than accolades. She embodies a unique blend of humility and authority — the kind that doesn’t just lead, but uplifts.
Named Dominican Officer of the Year – Community Leader & Instructor, Emily represents the kind of leadership that doesn’t shout — it shapes. With years of dedication behind her badge and in front of a classroom, she brings both strength and warmth to everything she does. Her influence can be felt in the lives she’s mentored, the communities she’s served, and the respect she’s earned from peers and neighbors alike. She brings dignity to every room she enters and depth to every title she holds.
Her story is more than just a law enforcement career. It’s a commitment. As a master instructor, Emily trains the next generation of officers not only with discipline, but with vision. She leads by example, balancing structure with humanity — and building bridges between those in uniform and the people they serve. Her influence reaches far beyond a training room or patrol route — it lives in the confidence she instills in others.
Her ability to inspire is just as powerful as her ability to protect. Emily’s leadership style is rooted in compassion — understanding that service begins with connection. She meets people where they are, listens deeply, and makes decisions that consider both justice and humanity. That balance is rare, and it’s why she continues to earn recognition not just for what she does, but for how she does it.
Outside of her professional role, Emily is an active pillar in the community. She is deeply involved with Rolando Paulino Little League, not just as a supporter, but as a delegate who’s taken youth to international tournaments. Her passion for sports and youth development shines through in every practice, every event, and every victory celebrated as a team. It’s not just about the game — it’s about building discipline, teamwork, and dreams.
She also serves as the Vice President of Community Affairs for NY HALEO — the New York Hispanic American Law Enforcement Organization — continuing her advocacy and bridge-building within the Latino community and beyond. Her role within NY HALEO underscores her commitment to both representation and action, ensuring that the voices of Hispanic officers and the communities they serve are heard, respected, and empowered.
Emily also helped lead one of the most inspiring local events of the year: the book launch of Diaries of a Pretty Woman, where she served as manager and organizer. The event drew over 200 attendees and became a vibrant celebration of female voices, self-expression, and empowerment. Her coordination and leadership were key to its success — another example of how her fingerprints are quietly on so many moments that matter.
Then there’s her presence — the kind you feel before you even hear her speak. Sharp in uniform, radiant in formalwear, Emily’s personal style reflects the duality of her spirit: commanding and compassionate. With every photo, she channels a powerful blend of Dominican pride, elegance, and modern Latina leadership. She’s not just representing — she’s redefining what it looks like to lead as a woman of color in public service.
From classrooms to community events, baseball fields to book launches, Emily’s reach is wide and meaningful. She shows young girls what’s possible. She shows communities what trust looks like. And she shows her fellow officers that strength and softness are not opposites — they’re allies. Her journey is one of intention, service, and quiet excellence.
Emily Rufino isn’t doing this work for recognition — but recognition follows impact. Her name may carry a title, but her legacy is built on the lives she’s touched and the standards she’s raised. Viva La Mujer honors her not just for what she’s accomplished, but for what she continues to inspire: service that uplifts, leadership that listens, and excellence that comes from knowing exactly who you are.
🎉 Don’t miss the Viva La Mujer celebration honoring incredible women like Emily Rufino!
📅 Date: Thursday, July 17
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Brasier – 3775 10th Ave., New York, NY 10034
Follow the movement and meet more women who leave a mark:
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