Marek Skulimowski, President and Executive Director of the KF honored as a Cultural Warrior at the Ukrainian Museum’s 50th-Anniversary Gala in NYC
On November 8, 2026, Marek Skulimowski, President and Executive Director of the Kosciuszko Foundation was honored as a Cultural Warrior at the Ukrainian Museum’s 50th-Anniversary Gala in New York City.
The recognition celebrates his personal commitment and the Foundation’s efforts to protect Ukraine’s cultural heritage since the early days of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. With generous support from the Smithsonian Institution and private donors, and in partnership with the Folkowisko Foundation, the Kosciuszko Foundation has helped more than 50 cultural institutions across Ukraine safeguard irreplaceable collections and archives and continue operating despite the war.
Accepting the honor, Skulimowski spoke about the sense of solidarity that inspired his and the Foundation’s efforts to help:
“Poles and Ukrainians know what it means to fight for freedom, independence, and national identity. That is why helping Ukraine felt like the most natural and right thing to do. I am deeply grateful for this recognition, but I accept it on behalf of everyone who has made our work possible. Protecting Ukraine’s cultural heritage is about more than saving museums or works of art. It is about safeguarding a nation’s identity, memory, and future.”
Skulimowski shared the recognition with the Foundation’s partners and supporters, particularly Marcin Piostrowski and Mariana Ivanovych of the Folkowisko Foundation, both present at the gala.
Other distinguished Cultural Warrior honorees included Chef José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen; Audrey Azoulay, former Director-General of UNESCO; and Professor Timothy Snyder, historian and author.
In a particularly moving moment, the Ukrainian Museum’s Board conveyed the Ukrainian people’s heartfelt gratitude to their Polish brothers and sisters for their unwavering support and solidarity.
The Kosciuszko Foundation warmly congratulates the Ukrainian Museum on its golden jubilee! For 50 years, the Museum has preserved and celebrated Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage, a mission more important than ever.
Congratulations on 50 remarkable years, and thank you for this meaningful honor!
