Designed to pay homage to the immigrant experience, as well as for individual achievement, medals are awarded to
U.S. citizens from various ethnic backgrounds.

The honorees are remarkable Americans who exemplify outstanding qualities in both their personal and professional lives,
while continuing to preserve the richness of their particular heritage.

Also, for the last three years NECO has presented an Ellis Island International Medal of Honor to a citizen of another
nation who has had a significant effect on the United States and her citizens.