The ELLIS ISLAND MEDALS OF HONOR are awarded annually to a group of distinguished American citizens who exemplify a life dedicated to community service. These are individuals who preserve and celebrate the history, traditions and values of their ancestry while exemplifying the values of the American way of life, and who are dedicated to creating a better world for us all.
Integrity
The nominee should be a person of integrity who has done, or been the impetus for, an honorable act that exemplifies their character and reputation
Passion
Discuss how passion has led the nominee to focus their lives on a social cause, an ideological concept, a humanitarian philosophy, etc.
Gravitas
Consider if the nominee received any academic, professional and humanitarian accolades. Please mention any objective peer-reviewed awards or citations, innovations, inventions or humanitarian recognitions
Humanitarian
Detail the nominee’s commitment and efforts on behalf of humanitarian causes. Humanitarian efforts should be considered beyond financial contributions. Please describe how their personal time and passion have helped move their cause forward
Ethnic Heritage
Describe how the individual honors their ethnic heritage, how they promote it and/or what have they contributed to it
For naturalized Americans, consider how they have integrated themselves into our national identity
For native-born Americans, please consider the individual’s contributions to their self-identified ethnic homeland, as well as their professional and personal achievements
Please note that the Medal is not awarded posthumously.
