The Cities of Champaign and Urbana, the CU Immigration Forum, and the Urbana Free Library are proud to co-sponsor the Immigrant Welcome Award Ceremony and Celebration. This event is held in conjunction with Welcoming Week, a national week of events that brings both immigrants and U.S.-born residents together in a spirit of unity and raises awareness of the benefits of fostering an inclusive society.
On September 16, 2023, the 10th Annual Immigrant Welcome Awards Ceremony and Celebration was held at the Urbana Free Library. Attendees celebrated the diversity of cultures that make up our community with music and special guests. The event recognized the contributions of individuals and organizations that have created a welcoming atmosphere for immigrants in the Champaign-Urbana community.
2023 Immigrant Welcome Award Recipients:
Business Leadership Award – Shawarma Joint
Community Impact Award – The Refugee Center
Emergent Leader Award – Citlaly Y. Stanton
Immigrant Leadership Award – Efrain Francisco Gaspar
Student Leadership Award – Flor Quiroz
The Claire Szoke Lifetime of Service Award – Pat Nolan