Chris Kempczinski, McDonald’s CEO, Honored with KF Medal of Recognition
On April 20, the Kosciuszko Foundation celebrated its illustrious history and the achievements of its alumni at the 2024 Annual Fundraising Dinner & Ball, setting the stage for our centennial anniversary next year. During the event, the KF honored Chris Kempczinski, President and CEO of McDonald's.
The evening was a tribute to the visionaries who have been instrumental in shaping the success of the Kosciuszko Foundation. Alex Storozynski, Chairman of the KF Board of Trustees, highlighted the rich heritage and robust strength of the Foundation. He emphasized the consistent involvement of distinguished figures from the realms of science, arts, and culture. From our visionary founder, Stephen Mizwa, to eminent supporters like Albert Einstein and Maria Sklodowska Curie, and exceptional alumni, each has played a pivotal role in shaping our journey.
Marek Skulimowski, KF President and Executive Director, took the opportunity to spotlight the exceptional achievements of numerous KF scholarship, fellowship, and grant recipients. He recognized several illustrious KF alumni, including artist Prof. Magdalena Abakanowicz, economist Prof. Leszek Balcerowicz, and Ambassador Mark Brzezinski.
He proudly introduced this year’s honoree, Chris Kempczinski, President and CEO of McDonald’s and a KF Tuition Scholarship recipient, who was awarded the 2024 Medal of Recognition for his outstanding contributions to the field of business and society.
Mr. Kempczinski graced the event alongside his wife, Heather. In his remarks, he reflected on education’s pivotal role in his family’s journey from Poland to the USA.
He also emphasized the importance of his Polish roots. “My Polish heritage starts with family. I appreciate how close Polish families are and how important family is in the Polish community. I also emphasize the hardworking nature of Polish people—Polish people are among the hardest workers in the world.”
Next, he pointed out the shared values between the Polish community and McDonald’s. “What I appreciate about McDonald’s, and my Polish heritage, is the sense of community. At McDonald’s, we think of ourselves as one of the most global companies and one of the most local companies.”
In concluding his speech, Mr. Kempczinski revealed that he traveled to Poland earlier in the week and was impressed by how much Polish people help Ukrainian refugees. ‘When you need a strong community to lean on, the Polish people were there for the Ukrainians,” he said. “And McDonald’s is there for the community as well,” he noted, emphasizing that McDonald’s in Poland hires Ukrainian refugees and gets involved in various aid initiatives.
Before joining us at the Ball, Chris Kempczinski visited the KF headquarters at the Van Allen House in Manhattan. There, he met with KF leadership and took a guided tour of the Foundation, exploring our extensive art collection and delving into our history.
Consul General of the Republic of Poland Adrian Kubicki and Consul Ewa Pietrasienska were among the Ball’s other esteemed guests. The evening was hosted by KF VP and DC Center Director Barbara Bernhardt.
This year, we joyfully revived the cherished tradition of debutantes. Four young ladies were gracefully introduced to the community in a poignant ceremony and waltz.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this event. Your continued support and generosity will propel the Foundation into its next century stronger and more united than ever.
For those of you who would like to support our mission, we invite you to become a member of the Foundation or make a donation.
Thank you!
