A Night to Remember: Highlights and Photos from the KF’s “Ball of the Century”
This year’s 88th Kosciuszko Foundation Annual Dinner and Ball of the Century was unlike any other — a once-in-a-century celebration marking the Centennial Anniversary of the Foundation. Held with pride, elegance, and deep emotion, the evening commemorated 100 years of supporting education, culture, and the Polish-American community.
Ball of the Century – Highlights from the Kosciuszko Foundation Centennial
Known for his inspiring speeches, Alex Storozynski, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, delivered remarks that captured the spirit of the Foundation’s mission. In a vivid metaphor, he described the Kosciuszko Foundation as “coming to the rescue” of Polish people in America — helping them achieve their dreams in education and careers like no other organization. His speech also celebrated Marek Skulimowski, the Foundation’s President and Executive Director, affectionately dubbed the “Polish Indiana Jones” for his heroic work in recovering Polish artwork stolen during World War II.
Throughout the evening, President Skulimowski spoke with characteristic eloquence about the Foundation’s journey, achievements, and future goals. “It all began with a borrowed $9—a simple act of kindness at Ellis Island that opened the door to a lifetime of impact. Stephen Mizwa’s journey reminds us that kindness can be contagious. From one helping hand in 1910 to a century of scholarships, cultural exchange, and global connection, the Kosciuszko Foundation stands as proof that generosity multiplies across generations. Let’s carry that spirit forward into the next hundred years,” – said Mr. Skulimowski.
The program also featured remarks from distinguished guests, including Edward Mermelstein, New York City’s Commissioner for International Affairs, and Mateusz Sakowicz, Consul General of the Republic of Poland in New York.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Kosciuszko Foundation’s Medal of Recognition to KF outstanding, long-serving trustees whose service and dedication have left an indelible mark:
- Joseph E. Gore, Esq., accepted by his daughter Regina Gore Cavaliere and grandson Alexander.
- Wanda Senko, accepted by her children Cynthia Rosicki, Esq., Dawn Polewac, and Keith Senko.
- Dr. Ewa Radwanska, Ph.D., whose daughter Joanna Radwanska Williams accepted the honor.
Following the medal presentations, in a moving surprise, Ms. Joanna Dobecka Lembert announced a $20,000 donation in honor of Dr. Radwanska to establish a scholarship supporting a medical student’s education.
- Dr. Hanna Chroboczek Kelker, Ph.D., who accepted the Medal onstage with her husband, Dr. Norman Kelker.
- Alexander Koproski
The celebration was filled with dining, dancing, and fellowship. One of the most enchanting moments of the night was the elegant dance centuries-old Polonaise, a beautiful tribute to Poland’s rich cultural traditions.
The Centennial Ball of the Kosciuszko Foundation was truly a tribute to a century of fostering education, promoting Polish culture, and building bridges of understanding between Poland and the United States.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended and helped make this event such a success. Your presence and support mean the world to us. Here’s to the next 100 years!
Support future events like the Ball of the Century by becoming a Kosciuszko Foundation member.
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