#United States #New York #Vilcek Foundation #Immigrant Contributions #Arts and Sciences

Record-Breaking Recognition: 2025 Vilcek Foundation Awards

The Vilcek Foundation proudly announces its most significant award ceremony to date, having allocated $950,000 to honor 14 exceptional immigrants for their profound contributions in the fields of arts and sciences. Since its inception in 2006, the foundation has championed the significance of immigrant influence in the United States, reinforcing its commitment to foster appreciation for cultural diversity and talent.

This year's celebration showcases a wide variety of esteemed winners across different categories, including biomedical science, visual arts, and curatorial work, emphasizing the creativity and innovation of immigrant professionals. Each category highlights the meticulous work and dedication these individuals have rendered to their respective fields.

The Vilcek Foundation Prize Categories

The awards are segmented into various categories:
1. Vilcek Foundation Prizes in Biomedical Science
2. Vilcek Foundation Prizes in Visual Arts
3. Vilcek Foundation Prizes in Curatorial Work
4. Vilcek Prize for Excellence in Literary Scholarship
5. Marica Vilcek Prize in Art History

Honoring Visionaries in Biomedical Science

The Vilcek Foundation Prizes in Biomedical Science awarded four prizes in 2025, distinguishing the achievements of immigrant scientists pivotal in biomedical research. Marianne Bronner received the main Vilcek Prize for her groundbreaking work on stem cells. Additionally, three recipients of the Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise go to Elham Azizi, Maayan Levy, and Guosong Hong, each receiving $50,000 and recognition for their significant contributions to oncology and neuroengineering.

Acknowledging Artistic Expressions

In the realm of visual arts, Guadalupe Maravilla was awarded the Vilcek Prize for his profound installations and performances that delve into themes of migration and transcendence. Likewise, the three creative promise prizes were awarded to Selva Aparicio, Felipe Baeza, and Jeffrey Meris, showcasing diverse artistic expressions through installations and sculptures that resonate with contemporary societal issues.

Curatorial Innovations Recognized

The foundation expanded its reach this year by presenting the Vilcek Foundation Prizes in Curatorial Work. Oluremi C. Onabanjo received the main prize for her impactful examination of Blackness in the photographic medium, alongside colleagues Donna Honarpisheh, Aimé Iglesias Lukin, and Bernardo Mosqueira who all received the Creative Promise prizes for their innovative approaches in curatorial practices.

Celebrating Literary Excellence

The Vilcek Prize for Excellence in Literary Scholarship was awarded to Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr., a prominent African American literary scholar and historian. His work illuminates the complexities of race and history in the U.S., fostering deeper understanding and dialogue surrounding cultural divides.

Honoring a Legacy in Art History

To honor the legacy of co-founder Marica Vilcek, the foundation introduced the Marica Vilcek Prize in Art History, awarded to Francesca Du Brock. Her approach combines curatorial innovation with public engagement, redefining how museums connect with communities by prioritizing previously marginalized voices.

Conclusion

The Vilcek Foundation is underpinned by a mission to elevate awareness of immigrant contributions and foster appreciation within the arts and sciences. Their impactful awards not only recognize individual achievements but also highlight the enduring influence of immigrants on American culture and innovation. Launched by Jan and Marica Vilcek, immigrants themselves, the foundation continues to make significant strides in celebrating diversity and inclusion, illuminating the narrative that immigrants are an integral part of the American fabric.

For further information on the Vilcek Foundation and its initiatives, please visit vilcek.org.