Seton Hall University President A. Gabriel Esteban & Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret)
Washington, D.C. “We are heartened by Carnegie Corporation’s July 4th tribute to immigrants and their vital contributions to this country,” says NaFFAA National Chairman JT Mallonga, in a statement praising the corporation’s “Great Immigrants: The Pride of America” initiative.
This year, 39 naturalized citizens from more than 30 countries are being honored for helping strengthen American democracy and advancing U.S. society, culture and economy. Among the honorees are two Filipino Americans: Seton Hall University President Dr. A. Gabriel Esteban and U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret.)
“Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, came to this country as the son of impoverished immigrants and grew up to become one of the greatest contributors to American industry and philanthropy,” said Carnegie Corporation President Vartan Gregorian. “His devotion to U.S. democracy stemmed from his conviction that the new infusion of talent that immigrants bring to our country keeps American society vibrant.”
Every July 4 since 2006, Carnegie Corporation pays tribute to immigrants and their accomplishments. “It’s a great honor to the Filipino American community that two of our leaders have been recognized for their valuable contributions to this country,” adds Mallonga. “Their inspiring accomplishments are a source of pride for us, and we will strive to do the same through our civic engagement and advocacy efforts.”