IMMIGRANT DAY CELEBRATION
2025

Immigrant Day 2025 Honorees

  • Country of Origin: India
    Profession: Associate Professor, Yale School of Medicine

    Dr. Aniyizhai Annamalai immigrated to the United States from India and has become a nationally recognized leader in refugee health. As an Associate Professor at Yale School of Medicine and Medical Director of the Yale Adult Refugee Clinic, she provides integrated care for refugees and immigrants facing complex medical and psychiatric challenges. A dual-trained physician in internal medicine and psychiatry, Dr. Annamalai is a mentor to young doctors, an author of critical clinical guides on refugee health, and a prominent advocate for culturally competent care. Her career reflects a powerful blend of compassion, expertise, and commitment to social justice.

  • Country of Origin: Pakistan
    Profession: IHOP Restaurant Manager

    Nasir Cheema immigrated from Lahore, Pakistan in 2002 and has become a respected figure in Connecticut’s Pakistani-American community. As the manager of an IHOP in West Hartford, he is known not only for his business leadership but also for his generous spirit and public service. He holds degrees in computer science and business administration and is a frequent volunteer at mosques and voter registration drives. Nasir is actively involved in multiple nonprofit and faith-based organizations including Helping Hand for Relief and Development and the Berlin Islamic Community Center. He represents the model of a community-oriented entrepreneur and civic leader.

  • Country of Origin: Peru
    Profession: Internationally Renowned Artist and Media Personality

    Cesar Zubiaga immigrated to the United States from Peru in 1989 and has since become a celebrated visual artist and cultural ambassador. His work draws on the richness of Indigenous Peruvian heritage and explores universal human themes through sculpture, painting, and performance. As the founder of the Peruvian-American Cultural Institute of Connecticut, he has helped foster cross-cultural understanding and pride in Latino identity. Cesar is also a well-known media personality, using his platform to highlight immigrant stories and Latin American art. His creative journey has inspired countless others to celebrate their heritage with dignity and pride.

  • Country of Origin: Pakistan
    Profession: Precious Metals Supply Chain Analyst

    Pervez Khalid’s journey from aviation refueling officer in Pakistan to supply chain analyst in Connecticut exemplifies determination and lifelong learning. Since immigrating to the U.S. in the 1980s, he has worked in electronics, hospitality, and precious metals, earning certifications in supply chain management and Six Sigma. He has also played leadership roles in the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) and helped establish a student chapter at Quinnipiac University. In the community, Pervez is a dedicated member of the Pakistan American Association of Connecticut, a volunteer with interfaith and humanitarian organizations, and a committed advocate for immigrant empowerment.

  • Country of Origin: Austria
    Profession: Retired Teacher and Principal, Holocaust Survivor

    Ruth Weiner is a Holocaust survivor who escaped Nazi-occupied Austria as a child and made Connecticut her home. A graduate of Weaver High School (valedictorian), UConn, and the University of Hartford, she spent decades as a teacher and principal, guiding generations of young learners. Now in her 90s, Ruth continues to speak passionately to schools and community groups about her experiences, teaching the values of empathy and resilience. She is active in Voices of Hope, Emanuel Synagogue, and My Sister’s Place, where she and her late husband funded a literacy room for families in need. Her life is a living testimony to survival, education, and enduring service.

  • Country of Origin: Argentina
    Profession: Chief Equity and Opportunity Officer, State of Connecticut

    Mariana Monteiro is Connecticut’s inaugural Chief Equity and Opportunity Officer and a visionary public leader with a deep commitment to racial equity, inclusion, and immigrant justice. Born in Argentina, she immigrated to the U.S. and dedicated her career to community development, public health, and systemic reform. Mariana has spearheaded initiatives to eliminate disparities in education, healthcare, housing, and employment. Through her leadership, she brings the voice of immigrants and underserved populations into the heart of state policymaking. Her personal story and professional mission reflect the transformative power of civic leadership rooted in lived experience.

  • Country of Origin: Romania
    Profession: Professor of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine

    Dr. Wanda Popescu came to the United States from Romania and has built a distinguished career in academic medicine. As a Professor of Anesthesiology at Yale School of Medicine, she is known for her clinical excellence, dedication to medical education, and mentorship of young physicians. Her work in the operating room and classroom alike has had a profound impact on patient safety and physician training in Connecticut. Dr. Popescu’s achievements reflect the highest standards of professionalism and the invaluable contributions of immigrant women in science and medicine.

  • Country of Origin: Ukraine
    Profession: Founder, The Svetlana Foundation

    Svetlana Moskvitch immigrated from Ukraine and transformed personal adversity into a mission to serve others. As the founder of the Svetlana Foundation, she has dedicated her life to supporting vulnerable children and families, both in Connecticut and abroad. Her organization provides critical resources such as education, food, and mental health support to those in crisis. Svetlana also works closely with schools, churches, and local nonprofits to strengthen community well-being. Her story is one of compassion, courage, and a relentless drive to build a more just and caring world.

2025 Special Recognitions

Angela R. Andersen Memorial Award

Angela Andersen was a dedicated and passionate advocate for immigrants and refugees in Connecticut. As Executive Director of the International Institute of Connecticut, now CIRI, she provided smart, strategic, and compassionate leadership—even through times of personal and professional challenge. Her enthusiasm, humor, and deep care left a lasting imprint on those she worked with and served.

This award is presented each year to someone who embodies Angela’s drive and commitment to supporting new Americans.

Salma Khatoon Farid Award

The Salma Khatoon Farid Award was established in memory of a beloved educator whose life’s work uplifted entire communities through education, unity, and mentorship.

This award is reserved for educators whose work has had a lasting and transformative impact on the lives of immigrant and refugee students.

  • Dr. Nicole Esposito is the (former) CEO of CT State Manchester, a visionary educator, and nationally recognized advocate for equity and inclusion. She has led bold efforts to improve policies in higher education, expand access for immigrant students, and promote lasting change rooted in social justice.

Myra M. Oliver Memorial Award

For nearly three decades, Myra Oliver served as Executive Director of what is now the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants. Her unwavering dedication helped thousands of newcomers build new lives in this country. Myra believed deeply in the dignity, courage, and strength of those she served, and in her staff who carried out that mission.

This award is presented to someone whose lifelong service reflects the spirit and values that Myra championed.

  • Professor Mehrdäd Fäézi is an engineering professor at CT State Manchester and a first-generation immigrant from Iran. Professor Fäézi has empowered generations of students—many from immigrant backgrounds—to succeed in the workforce and in life, always leading with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to excellence.

  • Donna Petrone began her journey under Myra’s mentorship nearly 40 years ago. As a DOJ Accredited Representative and leader at CIRI’s Bridgeport office, Donna has helped generations of immigrant families navigate life in a new country with compassion, expertise, and heart.