RoSummit Awards – Proposal 2025

(This page will be updated as nominees are announced. The entire community is encouraged to contribute nominations.)

The Romanian Community Summit Awards celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to the Romanian community in Chicago, across the U.S., and globally. These awards recognize excellence in leadership, resilience, learning, and cross-cultural connection, highlighting those who embody the spirit of our diaspora.

Nominate an Awardee

Selection Criteria
Each award is based on clear, measurable criteria including demonstrated impact, community engagement, leadership qualities, and alignment with the Summit’s values. Full criteria for each award category are available below.

These awards aim to inspire others, foster a culture of resilience, and strengthen bonds of solidarity within the Romanian diaspora.

RoSummit 2024 Award

Jim Rosapepe

Senator Jim Rosapepe, Former Ambassador of the United States to Romania
James Carew Rosapepe (born May 20, 1951) is an American politician from Maryland and a member of the Democratic Party.

  • The Summit Awards are designed to recognize outstanding contributions from members of the Romanian-American and diaspora community. Each year, a call for nominations is made publicly, and anyone from the community can put forward candidates they believe deserve recognition.

  • The awards are decided by an independent Awards Committee, typically comprising 5 members, including representatives from partner organizations and community leaders (for example, the Consul General of Romania was part of the 2025 committee). The Romanian United Foundation (RUF) does not make these decisions, nor does any single person.

  • No. Once the nominations are submitted, the decision rests solely with the Awards Committee. Organizers, including RUF staff and volunteers, are not involved in the selection process.

  • Only individuals who are nominated can be considered. If someone deserving was overlooked, it may be because a nomination was not submitted in time or because the committee was not aware of the full scope of their contributions.

  • You can submit a nomination when the call opens for the next Summit. The process is transparent, community-driven, and depends on participation. If you know someone who deserves recognition, make sure their nomination is submitted on time.