2023 Annual Gala

On Saturday, October 7, 2023, the Ukrainian Institute of America hosted an unforgettable Annual Gala, celebrating our 75 years at the heart of the Ukrainian-American community.⁠ Thank you to our generous sponsors, listed here! 

⁠

During this wonderful evening, we recognized our founder, William Dzus, Jr., without whose vision the Institute would not have been established. We expressed our gratitude to our members, benefactors and all who attended the event for their unwavering support, not only of the Gala, but for the work the UIA does each and every day to preserve, promote, and share the rich tapestry of Ukrainian culture, ensuring that it not only survives, but that it thrives on the global stage.⁠

⁠

We were excited to present the Ukrainian Institute of America “Friend of Ukraine Award” to individuals and organizations who have demonstrated creative, generous, and passionate commitment in support of Ukraine and Ukrainians, especially in this pivotal moment fraught with global existential threats to the democratic way of life. Each of the awardees continues daily to take risks, to advocate, and to sacrifice for the benefit of the Ukrainian people and all of the freedom-loving people of the world. They inspire us every day and we are honored to call them Friends.⁠

⁠

Friend of Ukraine Award Recipients:⁠

⁠

Self Reliance (NY) Federal Credit Union: Heartfelt congratulations for serving as the financial and philanthropic cornerstone of the Ukrainian-American diaspora in NYC for over seven decades.⁠

⁠

Mitzi Perdue: You are a true friend of Ukraine! Your global advocacy over decades in support of human rights inspire us all.⁠ Thank you for raising your voice to keep citizens of the world united in their support of Ukraine in its battle for survival.⁠

⁠

Denys Drozdyuk and Antonina Skobina: We admire you not only for your captivating performances on the dance-floor, but for your sincere devotion to your homeland. Even from your current home in NYC, your impact of your artistic activism is felt on the world stage.⁠

⁠⁠⁠

To all who were part of our Gala, we thank you sincerely. Your support propels us forward, and we look forward to continuing our journey together in support of Ukraine and its people.