2025 American Dream Awards Gala: Celebrating Culture and Community
Updated: Oct 25
A Night to Remember
The New American Dream Foundation (TNADF) hosted its 11th Annual American Dream Awards Gala on Friday, September 26, at The Amber Room Colonnade. The venue was transformed into “American Dream Airlines” for an evening filled with culture, recognition, and philanthropy.
The sold-out event attracted over 300 guests. Attendees were encouraged to dress in black tie or traditional cultural attire. The gala raised $15,000 for Mission Health Day and awarded $12,000 in scholarships to immigrant and first-generation students.
Honoring Excellence
The evening began with a vibrant Chinese Lion Dance, performed in honor of Connecticut Attorney General William Tong. He later received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his trailblazing career in public service and civil rights. In his remarks, Tong asked the student scholars to stand and acknowledged guests in traditional attire.
“We are living in times of uncertainty, that some may say, ‘I don’t recognize our country anymore,’” Tong stated. “But when I look around this room, I am crystal clear… this is who we are.”
Engaging the Audience
The evening’s MCs, TNADF Vice President and Program Director Emanuela Palmares, along with other TNADF members, guided guests through a travel-themed program. It featured a playful “safety briefing” skit and inspiring stories of resilience and community service.
Scholarships and Honorees
Four deserving students received scholarships totaling $12,000:
Gardenia Carpio: An aspiring architect and daughter of Ecuadorian immigrants.
Samuel Pereira: The son of Brazilian immigrants, planning to study medicine.
Jonnathan Jaramillo: A first-generation Ecuadorian American pursuing mechanical engineering at UConn.
Yasmin Dos Santos: The 2025 Americo S. Ventura Scholar, studying behavior analysis to support immigrant families.
Other honorees included:
Community Hero Award: Cora’s Kids, a United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut initiative connecting families with affordable, home-based childcare.
American Dream Champion Award: Doug Polistena, Partner and General Manager of The Amber Room Colonnade, recognized for his leadership in launching the Senior Hot Meal Program.
Special Recognition: RobyDodd Family Charitable Foundation, honored for providing a permanent home for the New American Dream Center.
A Grand Finale
The program concluded with a grand finale by Drum Café USA, presented by Northwell Health and Nuvance Health. Facilitators Kasa Panzu (Congo), Andy Algire (USA), Moussa Drame (Ivory Coast), and Boubacar Diabate (Ivory Coast) led the audience through rhythm, clapping, and movement. This transformed the ballroom into a vibrant celebration of unity and joy.
“Drum Café reminded us that when we come together in rhythm, we break barriers and move as one community,” Palmares remarked.
The Impact of the Gala
The American Dream Awards Gala not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the importance of community support. The funds raised will significantly impact Mission Health Day, ensuring that essential health services reach those in need.
Building a Brighter Future
The scholarships awarded to students are more than just financial assistance; they represent hope and opportunity. Each recipient is a testament to the resilience of immigrant families and the pursuit of the American Dream.
Strengthening Community Bonds
Events like the American Dream Awards Gala foster connections among diverse cultures. They remind us of the strength found in unity and the shared values that bind us together.
Looking Ahead
As TNADF continues its mission, the foundation remains committed to supporting immigrant families and first-generation students. The success of this gala sets a precedent for future events, inspiring more individuals to contribute to this noble cause.
In conclusion, the 11th Annual American Dream Awards Gala was a resounding success. It celebrated achievements, honored community heroes, and reinforced the values of unity and resilience. The evening served as a reminder of the power of community and the ongoing journey toward achieving the American Dream.
For more information about TNADF and its initiatives, visit The New American Dream Foundation.
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