ABOUT THE ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

The ICCR Achievement Awards recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and accomplishments strengthen the Capital Region. Honorees are celebrated for their contributions across civic engagement, education, public service, entrepreneurship, health, the arts, philanthropy, and community building. As the International Center of the Capital Region marks its 70th anniversary, the 2026 Achievement Awards honor the diverse people, global perspectives, and community partnerships that make our region more welcoming, connected, and vibrant.

We are proud to be guided and supported by a community leader who embodies ICCR’s mission of building bridges through culture and kindness:
Dr. Michael Brophy, Hudson Valley Community College President

Dr. Michael Brophy serves as President of Hudson Valley Community College, the largest community college in upstate New York, serving more than 10,000 students and partnering with industry and community organizations to advance workforce development throughout the Capital Region. A native of the region, Dr. Brophy has devoted more than two decades to higher education leadership, serving as president of institutions in New York, California, and Illinois. A Fulbright recipient and educator, he has taught a wide range of subjects and has contributed to international research and cultural initiatives. Under his leadership, Hudson Valley recently launched construction of the Applied Technology Education Center, further strengthening the college’s role in preparing the region’s future workforce. Dr. Brophy and his wife, Tara, have three grown children and two grandchildren.

Honors a community member who has immigrated to our region and has created economic opportunities through business and entrepreneurship. Nominees demonstrate innovation, job creation, ethical leadership, and a positive impact on the local economy and community.

James Kennedy is an Irish-born builder, developer, and entrepreneur whose work has revitalized historic properties and strengthened communities throughout New York. 

Founder of Murphy Kennedy Group and Rugby United New York, he has built businesses and teams that embrace diversity and inclusion. A champion of rugby and international engagement, James has spoken at the United Nations and helped foster global connections through sport. His leadership reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and international perspective that enrich the Capital Region.

Honors a community member who has immigrated to our region and has strengthened the community through volunteerism, philanthropy, and/or sustained service. Nominees demonstrate generosity, leadership through action, and a meaningful commitment to improving the lives of others.

Dr. Anshu Chandra is an optometrist, educator, and humanitarian who serves as President of the Global Eye Project. For nearly two decades, she has provided vision care to underserved communities around the world.

Through partnerships in Haiti, she helped establish an eye clinic that has provided more than 139,000 free eye examinations and sight-saving treatments while training local healthcare professionals. Her work is guided by the belief that no one should lose their sight simply because they lack access to care.

Honors a community member who has immigrated to our region and who has demonstrated leadership in civic life, public service, or citizenship. Nominees show active participation in community governance, advocacy, or public initiatives that strengthen government engagement and community voice.

Maria M. Silva is a reporter for the Times Union whose work focuses on immigration, labor, food, and the experiences of New Americans. Born and raised in Spain, she immigrated to the United States in 2017 and became a U.S. citizen in 2026. 



Her award-winning journalism elevates underrepresented voices and explores themes of belonging, opportunity, and community. Through empathy and storytelling, Maria helps deepen understanding of the diverse experiences that enrich the Capital Region.

Honors a community member who has immigrated to our region and who has achieved exceptional professional accomplishments in the for-profit or non-profit sectors. Nominees demonstrate excellence, leadership, and lasting impact in their field, with contributions that benefit the broader community.

Dina Refki is Executive Director of the Center for Women in Government & Civil Society and the Institute on Immigrant Integration Research and Policy at the University at Albany. She serves as a Clinical Professor at Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy, University at Albany, and leads its Center for Women in Government & Civil Society and the Institute on Immigrant Integration Research & Policy at the Rockefeller Institute of Government.

A scholar and public service leader, she focuses her work on gender equity, immigrant integration, and inclusive public policy. Through research, education, and community engagement, she has promoted evidence-based policies and practices that strengthen leadership opportunities and promote equity and inclusion throughout New York State and beyond.

Honors a community member who has shown outstanding dedication to advancing ICCR's mission through volunteer service. Nominees demonstrate reliability, initiative, and a strong commitment to fostering multicultural understanding.

Born in Taiwan and a longtime Capital Region resident, Lilly Miaw has dedicated decades to strengthening communities through volunteerism and philanthropy.

A former ICCR Board member, Vice President and Finance Chair, she has also served in leadership roles with the Chinese Community Center and Taiwanese American Cultural Society. Lilly has led fundraising efforts supporting disaster relief, healthcare, and local causes, including raising support for ICCR during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to community service and cultural understanding.

Honors an organization in the Capital Region that exemplifies welcoming, supporting, and celebrating neighbors who have immigrated to the region. Nominees demonstrate meaningful community partnerships, and leadership in advancing global awareness.

Founded by Swatantra and Srinivas Mitta, the Foundation is dedicated to empowering socioeconomically disadvantaged communities, with a special focus on children and women. 

In India, the Foundation supports schools, vocational training, healthcare, nutrition, sanitation, senior services, and scholarships for higher education. 

In the United States, Dr. Mitta has championed preventive health and community wellness through lifestyle medicine and active outreach, while supporting organizations that address health, exercise, nutrition, rehabilitation, and maternal mental health. 



Guided by a commitment to service and opportunity, the Foundation is building stronger families and brighter futures in both countries.

This special recognition honors an individual whose exceptional leadership and commitment to public diplomacy have advanced international understanding, strengthened relationships across cultures and nations, and fostered meaningful global engagement.

Presented at the discretion of the International Center of the Capital Region, this distinction recognizes distinguished service that exemplifies the principles of citizen diplomacy, cross-cultural exchange, and international cooperation. Recipients have demonstrated a lasting impact through their efforts to build bridges among people, communities, and countries while promoting mutual understanding and respect.

Ambassador Robert R. Gosende devoted 36 years to the U.S. Information Agency and public diplomacy, serving in leadership positions throughout Africa, Europe, and Washington, D.C. He served as President Clinton's Special Envoy for Somalia and helped coordinate U.S. support for South Africa's historic 1994 elections. Following his diplomatic career, he founded the SUNY Office of International Programs and expanded partnerships across the university system. His lifelong commitment to international understanding exemplifies the highest ideals of citizen diplomacy.

2026 Master of Ceremonies

PAYING BY CHECK?

To pay by check, please make checks payable to:

International Center of the Capital Region (ICCR)

Mail payments to:

International Center of the Capital Region
80 Vandenburgh Avenue, GUN 130
Troy, NY 12180

Please include the name of the sponsor, purchaser, or attendee(s), along with the sponsorship level, ticket type, or table reservation, so ICCR can properly record your registration and recognition.

For questions or assistance, please contact info@iccralbany.org

With Appreciation