In a dazzling celebration of America’s vibrant tapestry, the Carnegie Corporation of New York has unveiled its 2025 Great Immigrants, Great Americans list, spotlighting 20 extraordinary naturalized U.S. citizens who have transformed the nation’s cultural, scientific, and societal landscape.
This year’s announcement is particularly momentous, marking the 20th anniversary of the Great Immigrants initiative—a tribute to the enduring legacy of immigrants who have fortified American democracy and innovation.
Among the luminaries honored are public health trailblazer Sandra Leisa Lindsay and business visionary Michele Kang, alongside a constellation of leaders in technology, arts, academia, and beyond.
With a nod to history and a vision for the future, this year’s list underscores the boundless contributions of immigrants to the United States.
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A Milestone Year for Immigrant Excellence
For two decades, the Carnegie Corporation of New York has championed the Great Immigrants initiative, a heartfelt homage to the remarkable achievements of naturalized citizens.
Founded by Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish immigrant whose philanthropy reshaped American education and culture, the organization continues to honor his legacy by recognizing individuals who embody the American Dream.
The 2025 cohort, hailing from 16 diverse nations, represents a kaleidoscope of talent and dedication, from Nobel Prize winners to cultural icons and entrepreneurial pioneers.
Dame Louise Richardson, president of the Carnegie Corporation and a naturalized U.S. citizen herself, reflected on the initiative’s significance: “For 20 years, our Great Immigrants program has illuminated the profound impact of naturalized citizens, echoing the journey of our founder, Andrew Carnegie.
These individuals strengthen the very soul of America, weaving their unique stories into the fabric of our democracy.
We celebrate this milestone class and the hundreds of honorees who have come before them.
”Since its inception in 2006, the Great Immigrants initiative has honored over 750 individuals from nearly 120 countries, each leaving an indelible mark on fields ranging from medicine and technology to journalism and philanthropy.
The 2025 list is a testament to the enduring power of immigration to drive progress and inspire change.
Sandra Leisa Lindsay: A Beacon of Public Health
Among the standout honorees is Sandra Leisa Lindsay, a public health advocate whose courage and leadership have saved countless lives.
Lindsay, a Jamaican-born nurse, made history in December 2020 as the first American to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, a moment that symbolized hope and resilience during a global crisis.
Her unwavering commitment to healthcare equity and community outreach has earned her widespread acclaim, including the prestigious Medal of Freedom, presented by President Joe Biden on July 7, 2022, at the White House.
Lindsay’s journey from Jamaica to the forefront of American healthcare is a powerful narrative of perseverance.
As a critical care nurse and director of nursing at Northwell Health, she has championed initiatives to address disparities in healthcare access, particularly in underserved communities.
Her work extends beyond the hospital, inspiring a new generation of healthcare professionals to prioritize compassion and innovation.
“Sandra Lindsay’s story is one of bravery and service,” said Vartan Gregorian, former president of the Carnegie Corporation.
“Her leadership during one of the darkest periods in modern history reminds us that immigrants are often the backbone of our nation’s resilience.”
Michele Kang: Redefining Business and Philanthropy
Another luminary on the 2025 list is Michele Kang, a trailblazing business leader whose vision has reshaped industries and empowered communities.
Born in South Korea, Kang is the founder of Cognosante, a healthcare technology company that has revolutionized how medical services are delivered.
Her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to social impact have made her a role model for aspiring business leaders worldwide.
Kang’s influence extends to philanthropy, where she has invested heavily in women’s sports, notably as the owner of the Washington Spirit, a National Women’s Soccer League team.
Her efforts to elevate female athletes and promote gender equity in sports have sparked a movement, inspiring young women to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
“Michele Kang represents the best of what immigrants bring to America: innovation, determination, and a commitment to lifting others up,” said Richardson.
“Her contributions transcend business, touching lives through her advocacy for equality and opportunity.”
A Diverse Constellation of Talent
The 2025 Great Immigrants list is a vibrant mosaic of talent, showcasing individuals who have excelled in diverse fields.
Among them are:
Tope Awotona, a Nigerian-born tech entrepreneur and founder of Calendly, whose scheduling platform has transformed how businesses and individuals connect.
Awotona’s journey from humble beginnings to tech titan embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that drives America’s innovation economy.
Moungi Bawendi, a Tunisian-born Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry, whose groundbreaking work in nanotechnology has revolutionized medical diagnostics and energy solutions.
His contributions underscore the critical role immigrants play in advancing scientific discovery.
Tania León, a Cuban-born composer whose evocative music blends cultural traditions, earning her acclaim as a leading voice in contemporary classical music.
Her work celebrates the richness of her heritage while pushing artistic boundaries.
These honorees, born in countries such as Brazil, Canada, China, Cuba, Ethiopia, France, India, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Philippines, Russia, South Korea, Tunisia, and Vietnam, reflect the global diversity that fuels America’s strength.
Their stories highlight the universal themes of resilience, ambition, and service that define the immigrant experience.
The Legacy of Andrew Carnegie
The Great Immigrants initiative is deeply rooted in the legacy of Andrew Carnegie, whose journey from a Scottish weaver’s son to one of America’s most influential philanthropists remains a cornerstone of the program.
Carnegie’s belief in the power of education, opportunity, and hard work continues to inspire the initiative’s mission.
His establishment of libraries, universities, and cultural institutions laid the foundation for a nation where immigrants could thrive and contribute.“
America is a nation built by immigrants,” said Richardson.
“Our support for nonpartisan organizations that create legal pathways to citizenship ensures that future generations can continue to enrich our society.”
Over the past two decades, the Carnegie Corporation has partnered with organizations that promote civic engagement, education, and immigration reform.
These efforts have helped countless individuals navigate the path to citizenship, empowering them to contribute fully to American life.
A Celebration of Impact
The 2025 Great Immigrants, Great Americans list is more than a recognition of individual achievements—it’s a celebration of the collective impact of immigrants on the United States.
From the frontlines of healthcare to the boardrooms of innovation, these honorees have shaped the nation’s present and future.
Their stories resonate with millions of Americans who see their own aspirations reflected in the journeys of these remarkable individuals.
The announcement comes at a time when immigration remains a pivotal issue in American discourse.
By highlighting the contributions of naturalized citizens, the Carnegie Corporation seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for the role immigrants play in strengthening democracy and driving progress.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
As the Great Immigrants initiative celebrates its 20th anniversary, it serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions that have defined America’s history.
From Albert Einstein to Madeleine Albright, past honorees have included some of the most transformative figures in modern history.
The 2025 class continues this tradition, showcasing individuals whose work will shape the nation for generations to come.
The Carnegie Corporation’s commitment to recognizing immigrant contributions extends beyond the annual list.
Through grants and partnerships, the organization supports programs that promote integration, education, and civic participation.
These efforts ensure that the United States remains a beacon of opportunity for those who seek to call it home.
A Call to Action
The 2025 Great Immigrants, Great Americans list is a clarion call to celebrate the diversity that defines the United States.
Sandra Lindsay, Michele Kang, and their fellow honorees remind us that immigrants are not just part of America’s story—they are its heartbeat.
As the nation looks to the future, their contributions will continue to inspire, innovate, and unite.
Join the Carnegie Corporation in honoring these remarkable individuals and advocating for a nation that embraces the talents and dreams of all its citizens.
Together, we can ensure that the legacy of the Great Immigrants initiative endures for another 20 years and beyond.
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