The award recognizes those “who have made it their mission to share with those less fortunate, their wealth of knowledge, indomitable courage, boundless compassion, unique talents and selfless generosity. They do so while acknowledging their debt to their ethnic heritage as they uphold the ideals and spirit of America.”

The medal will be presented to Hryck and other distinguished Americans on May 16, 2020, in Ellis Island's Great Hall, where immigrants were once processed.

Previous honorees include U.S. Presidents, Members of Congress, Nobel Prize winners, and leaders of industry and education, as well as significant figures in literature, news, sports and entertainment.

The awards were established in 1986 by the Ellis Island Honors Society and about 100 medalists are honored each year.