Dr. Marcelo Arboleda Segovia (1946–2023) was an influential Ecuadorian community leader, as well as the founder and director of the weekly newspaper Ecuador News, based in Jackson Heights (which remains active). Prior to this, he worked as a reporter for Noticias del Mundo.

Arboleda was born in Quito, where he studied at the renowned Benalcázar School for high school and went on to graduate in Sociology at the University of Moscow. He later served as the Civil Attaché at the Ecuadorian Embassy in Moscow and subsequently became the Head of Mission at the Ecuadorian Embassy in Belarus.

His connection with New York, according to a tribute article written by colleague Néstor Espinoza in Ecuador News, comes directly from his mother, who made a name for herself in the city as an activist before returning to Ecuador. Among her many contributions, she organized high-profile events, including hosting a visit from future Ecuadorian President León Febres-Cordero before his rise to power.

Arboleda was deeply engaged with the Ecuadorian community and regularly attended key cultural and political events. It was common to see him in long conversations with ambassadors, ministers, legislators, and even presidents. His was known for his impeccable style, and “always looked flawless,” according to colleagues.

A passionate reader with a keen interest in global news, Arboleda worked tirelessly, often around the clock, to produce Ecuador News, which he personally distributed alongside his wife, Carmen.

Dr. Arboleda passed away on May 12, 2023, and is survived by his wife Carmen Barrera, children Anthony, Josiane, Marcelita and Kenny, and grandchildren Tristen and Aden. Carmen has since taken on the role of General Director of Ecuador News, carrying forward the legacy her husband began and nurtured.