John Akouri to Emcee 2008 International Institute of Detroit 25th Annual Hall of Fame Celebration Dinner

(DETROIT, MI)...The International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit (IIMD) was founded in 1919 by a group of YWCA volunteers who sought to help immigrants learn English, become citizens, be assimilated into their new communities, and to learn to understand each other’s culture. The Institute has a vast collection of ethnic and cultural artifacts which are on display for visitors to enjoy. 1) Hall of Nations which houses display cases that have flags from 82 countries, 2,000 dolls from 84 countries and other ethnic displays and artifacts and 2) American Room which houses scale models of ships, on which immigrants came to the United States of America.

In 1978 the Foundation created the Heritage Hall of Fame Dinner which has become its major fundraising events. This event recognizes exceptional leaders from various ethnic backgrounds who have made outstanding contributions to the American way of life, who have demonstrated their commitment to multiculturalism, and who have generously supported ethnic and cultural traditions. The past honorees are proudly displayed at the Hall of Fame Gallery located at Cobo Hall. The 2008 Hall of Fame Dinner will take place on Thursday, November 13, 2008 at the Detroit Marriott Hotel.

The 2008 awardees who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame Gallery on November 13th include Terence E. Adderley, Bettejean Ahee, David A. Brandon, Richard M. Gabrys, Fr. Roufail Michail, Eugene Miller, Dick Purtan, and Gail Warden. Tickets are $150 each. Contact Ann Clark at 313-871-8600 x 229 or email ann@iimd.org for more information. Click here to download the invitation.