2025 Ellis Island Medals of Honor Presented to Leaders Across Many Fields
The Ellis Island Honors Society (EIHS) has proudly announced the recipients for the highly esteemed 2025 Ellis Island Medals of Honor. This event, recognized for celebrating significant contributions made by individuals from diverse backgrounds, is set to take place on May 10th during a formal gala at Ellis Island's Great Hall, a historic site that welcomed 12 million immigrants to the U.S.
Among the distinguished honorees this year are notable figures such as Academy Award-winning actor
Adrien Brody, esteemed journalist and television host
Christiane Amanpour, Pfizer's chairman and CEO
Albert Bourla, and the co-founder of Moderna
Robert Langer. Other notable recipients include
Liz Claman, a Fox News Business anchor,
Rebecca Weiner, deputy commissioner of the NYPD's Intelligence and Counterterrorism division, and
Darren Walker, president of The Ford Foundation. The full list includes 85 individuals who have made impactful contributions in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and entertainment.
These individuals were honored for their remarkable accomplishments, embodying the spirit of perseverance and dedication to service. As
Nasser J. Kazeminy, EIHS Chairman, expressed, "This evening is a tribute—one that honors perseverance, accomplishment, and service. Tonight, we recognize the remarkable contributions of 84 individuals to the United States and the world."
The
Ellis Island Medals of Honor have a storied past, established in 1986 to commemorate Americans—both native and naturalized—who reflect the nation's diverse heritage and values. With this recognition, the Society aims to promote understanding and acceptance among various cultural and ethnic groups, an endeavor that resonates throughout their expansive 38-year history.
The medallist's contributions not only uplift their respective fields but also serve as powerful reminders of the unique immigrant experiences that have shaped American society. According to EIHS, these honorees have embraced their personal histories of immigration and use their experiences to further enhance opportunities for others. This commitment to service and philanthropy embodies the core mission of EIHS.
Prominent past recipients include eight U.S. Presidents, Nobel Laureates, distinguished leaders in science and humanities, and renowned figures like
Muhammad Ali,
Rosa Parks, and
Frank Sinatra, all of whom share a legacy of impactful contributions to society. This year’s ceremony will once again emphasize the importance of diversity and the significant roles played by various communities throughout the nation’s history.
The gala will be a black-tie event celebrating not only the recipients but also the spirit of community and achievement that is integral to American identity. The Ellis Island Honors Society is a recognized non-profit organization committed to the ideals of inclusivity, constantly working to provide scholarships and educational opportunities for students of immigrant descent. By presenting the medals, they aim to cultivate recognition and reverence for the cultural mosaic that the nation is proud to represent.
Being awarded the Ellis Island Medals of Honor signifies not only individual achievement but also serves as a profound nod to the collective journey of immigrants and their descendants. As America stands as a beacon of freedom and opportunity, these honorees illustrate how personal perseverance can inspire successive generations, emphasizing that the legacy of Ellis Island continues to shape the core values of today's society.
In conclusion, the upcoming
2025 Ellis Island Medals of Honor gala promises to be an inspiring event, steeped in history, community, and a commitment to the future. For more details on the event and a complete list of honorees, please visit
EIHS Official Site.