Outstanding American by Choice facts for kids
The Outstanding American by Choice award is a special honor given to people who were born in other countries but chose to become citizens of the United States. It celebrates those who have done amazing things and made a big difference in America.
This award was created in January 2006 by Emilio T. Gonzalez, who was the head of a government agency called USCIS. USCIS is part of the Department of Homeland Security, which helps keep the country safe. As of 2018, about 130 people have received this award for their incredible achievements.
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Honoring Amazing Americans
The Outstanding American by Choice award recognizes people from all walks of life. These individuals have contributed to the United States in many different fields, from government and business to arts and science. They show how people from diverse backgrounds can achieve great things and help make America stronger.
Award Winners from 2006
In 2006, the first group of awards was given. These winners included people who worked in government, business, and community service.
- Carlos M. Gutierrez, born in Cuba, served as the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. This is a top government job focused on business and trade.
- Tom Lantos, born in Hungary, was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. This means he was an elected official who helped make laws for the country.
- Eduardo J. Padrón, born in Cuba, was the President of Miami Dade College. He helped lead a large college.
- Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, also born in Cuba, was another member of the U.S. House of Representatives.
- John F. Timoney, born in Ireland, was the Chief of Police for the Miami Police Department. He was in charge of keeping a major city safe.
Award Winners from 2007
The 2007 awardees included famous artists, scientists, and military members.
- Franklin Chang Diaz, born in Costa Rica, is a famous astronaut. He traveled to space many times.
- Emilio Estefan, born in Cuba, is a well-known musician and producer. He has created a lot of popular music.
- Gloria Estefan, born in Mexico, is a famous singer-songwriter. She has sold millions of albums worldwide.
- Indra Nooyi, born in India, was the Chairman and CEO of PepsiCo. She led one of the world's biggest food and beverage companies.
- John Shalikashvili, born in Poland, was a General in the United States Army. He held a very high rank in the military.
Award Winners from 2008
The 2008 group featured leaders in government, arts, and education.
- Elaine Chao, born in Taiwan, served as the United States Secretary of Transportation. She was in charge of America's transportation systems.
- Andy García, born in Cuba, is a well-known actor. He has starred in many movies.
- Rosario Marin, born in Mexico, was the Treasurer of the United States. She was responsible for the nation's money.
- Elie Wiesel, born in Romania, was a famous writer. He won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work.
Award Winners from 2009
In 2009, the awards recognized journalists, authors, and community leaders.
- Joseph Cao, born in Vietnam, was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.
- Maria Hinojosa, born in Mexico, is a respected journalist and author. She tells important stories through her work.
Award Winners from 2010
The 2010 awardees included people from various fields, including military service and public service.
- Stephan Ross, born in Poland, founded the New England Holocaust Memorial. He helped create a place to remember history.
- Tibor Rubin, born in Hungary, was a brave member of the United States Army.
Award Winners from 2011
The 2011 group included a former Secretary of State and other public servants.
- Madeleine K. Albright, born in Czechoslovakia, was a former U.S. Secretary of State. She was the top diplomat for the United States.
- Gerda Weissmann Klein, born in Poland, founded Citizenship Counts. This organization helps teach young people about citizenship.
Award Winners from 2012
The 2012 awardees included innovators and leaders in technology and business.
- Khaled Hosseini, born in Afghanistan, is a famous diplomat and author. He wrote popular books like "The Kite Runner."
- Michael Moritz, born in Britain, is a successful investor. He helps new companies grow.
Award Winners from 2013
The 2013 group recognized medical professionals and community leaders.
- Rahul M. Jindal, born in India, is a skilled surgeon.
- Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa, born in Mexico, is a leading neurosurgeon. He performs brain surgeries.
Award Winners from 2014
The 2014 awardees included a famous chef and a government official.
- José Andrés, born in Spain, is a world-renowned chef. He is known for his restaurants and charity work.
- Alejandro Mayorkas, born in Cuba, served as the Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Award Winners from 2015
The 2015 group included a baseball legend and a popular singer.
- Mariano Rivera, born in Panama, is a former baseball pitcher for the New York Yankees. He is considered one of the greatest baseball players ever.
- Thalía, born in Mexico, is a famous singer-songwriter and actress.
Award Winners from 2016
The 2016 awardees included professors, military heroes, and diplomats.
- Florent Groberg, born in France, is a hero from the United States Army. He received the Medal of Honor for his bravery.
- Samantha Power, born in Ireland, is a diplomat. She has represented the U.S. in important international roles.
Award Winners from 2017
The 2017 group included a famous athlete.
- Meb Keflezighi, born in Eritrea, is a long-distance runner. He is an Olympic medalist and a winner of the Boston Marathon.
