Chicago: Dr Austin Prabhu receives Humanitarian Excellence Award from Secretary of State

Bellevision Media Network

Chicago, 16 May 2018: Illinois Secretary of State held his Annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Reception 2018 here on Tuesday, May 15 at the James R Thompson Center Concourse Level.

 

In his welcome address he said, ‘As Secretary of State it is my honor to welcome you to the Secretary of State’s Annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration.

 

 

During the month of May, we join the nation in recognizing Asian Pacific Americans who have made a difference in their communities. This year, the Xilin Art Academy and the Bharatham Academy of Dance Arts share their customs and culture with us through special performances.

 

Today’s celebration honors a variety of individuals who have each contributed significantly to their communities and the state of Illinois. We salute all of our honorees for the hard work and standard of excellence that they demonstrate each day.

 

The program also features members of the Asian Pacific Community who have served and succeeded as leaders in their fields. Their leadership is inspirational and admirable.

 

Our keynote speaker, Dr John Kalapurakal, is the vice chair of the department of radiation oncology at Northwestern University. For more than two decades, he has dedicated his talents to educating students and treating patients. He is honored with the Humanitarian Service Award.

 

Josina Wing Morita is a human rights leader and the first Asian-American elected to a countywide board in Cook County.  She is honored with the Judge Laura Cha-Yu Lie Trailblazer Award.

 

Dr Austin D’Souza Prabhu is honored for his humanitarianism and activism for more than 40 years.  He is honored with the Humanitarian Excellence Award.

 

Stephani Chan Vo is recognized for her dedication to volunteerism throughout the Chicagoland area. She is honored with the Volunteer Achievement Award. Rebecca Yemin Shi’s experience raising awareness about immigration issues has aided the Asian American business community in Illinois and throughout the nation.  She is honored with the Community Leadership Award.

 

It is a privilege to welcome and celebrate the legacies of these prestigious individuals. I look forward to the continued success of Illinois’ outstanding Asian Pacific American Community.’

 

This event was compered by ABC TV anchor Ravi Baichwal and Fox TV anchor Joanie Lum.