Chicago Celebrated Tadeusz Kosciuszko’s Name Day
On October 30, the Chicago Chapter of the Kosciuszko Foundation hosted its annual celebration of Tadeusz Kosciuszko’s Name Day, honoring the Foundation’s patron and Polish-American hero, whose ideals and values continue to inspire our mission.
The celebration took place at the Polish Museum of America. Guests were welcomed by the Museum’s Managing Director, Małgorzata Kot. Agnieszka Marczak, Vice Consul in the Polish Diaspora Department at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago, also greeted the audience and emphasized the importance of the event in preserving and nurturing Polish-American traditions.
The event was hosted by the Chicago Chapter’s leadership: President Prof. Lidia Filus, Vice President Maria Zakrzewski, and Secretary Joanna Radwańska-Williams.
Anna Tarnawska, Development Manager of the Kosciuszko Foundation, emphasized the importance of member engagement in sustaining the Foundation’s mission and supporting the success of students and scholars. She also highlighted the vital role of the Chicago Polish American community in preserving our shared heritage and ensuring it is passed on to future generations. 
The program featured a video presentation, “Remembering Kosciuszko,” by Dr. Donald Pienkos, Professor Emeritus of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
The event continues a tradition inspired by the historic gathering held on October 28, 1792, at Sieniawa Palace, organized by Prince Adam Kazimierz Czartoryski. At a difficult moment in Polish history, following military defeat and the suppression of Polish national symbols by Russia, the gathering in honor of Tadeusz Kosciuszko brought together Polish nobility and military officers demonstrating patriotism and national solidarity.
Today, the Chicago Chapter continues this tradition by remembering Kosciuszko and recognizing individuals whose dedication and contributions have strengthened the Polish American community and promoted Polish culture in the United States.
One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of an award to pianist Jarosław J. Gołembiowski for his longstanding dedication to promoting Polish music in America and his artistic contributions. He presented a recital featuring works by Polish and European classical composers, as well as his own composition.
Special recognition was also given to Lucyna Migala, one of the founders of the Chicago Chapter and founder of the Lira Ensemble. She was introduced by Kosciuszko Foundation Trustee Bożena Nowicka McLees.
The Kosciuszko Foundation also recognized Dr. Ewa Radwańska, a Foundation Trustee and Chicago Chapter member, for her 30 years of dedicated service on the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and for her role as one of the Chapter’s founders.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the event organizers, sponsors, and everyone who attended. Your continued support and commitment help us advance our mission, promote Polish culture, preserve our heritage, and invest in its future.
A special thank-you to the Polish Museum of America for hosting this wonderful celebration.
Thank you for being part of the Kosciuszko Foundation community!
