Order of Saint Panteleimon Honors Medical and Humanitarian Leaders at 2026 Award Ceremony in Chicago

CHICAGO — September 26, 2026 — The U.S. Overseas Council of the Order of Saint Panteleimon held its award ceremony, bringing together medical professionals, humanitarian leaders, diplomatic and community representatives, members of the Ukrainian-American community, and friends of Ukraine to honor individuals and organizations whose service has made an extraordinary contribution to Ukraine and its people.

This event marked the first annual award ceremony of the U.S. Overseas Council held in Chicago, allowing the Order's mission to reach one of the largest Ukrainian communities in the United States. Throughout the evening, guests were introduced to the stories of doctors, medical workers, volunteers, humanitarian leaders, and organizations whose activities exemplify professional excellence, compassion, courage, and consistent dedication to Ukraine.

Order of Saint Panteleimon Laureates of 2026

Edward Ma, founder and leader of Ed’s Friends Ukraine, was recognized for his extraordinary humanitarian leadership and dedication to Ukraine. His efforts have facilitated the involvement of doctors, surgeons, volunteers, medical aid, and ambulances in support of Ukraine's healthcare system.

Revived Soldiers Ukraine, represented by President Iryna Vashchuk Discipio, was honored for exceptional service to Ukraine and contributions to medical aid, rehabilitation, and humanitarian cooperation in support of wounded Ukrainian defenders.

Keti Leshkasheli, selected through the Overseas Council of Georgia, was recognized as the third laureate of 2026, marking the growth of the Order's international family.

Awarded with Certificates of Honor

The U.S. Overseas Council also presented Certificates of Honor to individuals and organizations whose professional expertise, generosity, dedication, and service have made a significant contribution to Ukraine and its people.

Among the individual honorees: Dr. Stuart Saiff; Dr. Jorge Corona; Dr. Steve Orton; Dr. Chandra Hassan; Dr. James Y. Suen; Dr. Michael A. Samotovka; Dr. Yevhen Pavelko; and Dr. Mark Hnatiuk.

Among the organizations: Leleka Foundation; Ukrainian Medical Association of North America (UMANA); Ukrainian Heroes Fund; and Protez Foundation.

At the Chicago ceremony, Leleka Foundation was represented by Svitlana Kostylova, co-founder and board member. UMANA was represented by Dr. Olena Gordon, president, and Ukrainian Heroes Fund by Halyna Maslova.

Leadership, Partnership, and Service

John Hewko, General Secretary and CEO of Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation, delivered the keynote address. In his speech, he discussed service to Ukraine in the broader context of international partnership, leadership, and long-term work on recovery and reconstruction.

Consul General of Ukraine in Chicago, Kostyantyn Vorona, addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of continued solidarity with Ukraine and recognizing the merits of those who serve the Ukrainian people. U.S. Congressman Danny K. Davis joined the guests during the reception.

Father Serhiy from the Ukrainian Catholic Church of Saints Volodymyr and Olha led a prayer and blessing. The presence of the relics of Saint Panteleimon, traditionally revered as a doctor and healer, added a special spiritual significance to the evening.

More Than an Award Ceremony

Beyond the official program, the evening served as a space for doctors, humanitarian organizations, clergy and community sector representatives, businesses, and the Ukrainian diaspora to meet, exchange ideas, and build connections around a shared commitment to Ukraine.

"The Order of Saint Panteleimon is not just about recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations. It's about telling their stories. When people see what doctors, volunteers, humanitarian organizations, and community leaders do for Ukraine, recognition can become inspiration — and inspiration can lead to new partnerships and new actions."

— Tetiana Tymkiv, President of the U.S. Overseas Council

A Look Ahead to 2027

The U.S. Overseas Council is preparing for the next recognition cycle and invites medical professionals, humanitarian organizations, community leaders, Ukrainian-American institutions, and public representatives to help identify worthy candidates.

Nominations for the 2027 recognition cycle will be accepted from December 1, 2026, to January 30, 2027. Nominations are accepted for individuals and organizations whose activities in healthcare, humanitarian service, or related fields have made a significant contribution to Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.

Nominations and inquiries can be sent to the email address sp.orden.usa@gmail.com.

About the Order of Saint Panteleimon

The Order of Saint Panteleimon is a public award for professionalism and compassion, honoring exceptional service in healthcare and humanitarian activities. Through its U.S. Overseas Council, the Order recognizes individuals and organizations whose work exemplifies professionalism, compassion, courage, service, and solidarity with Ukraine.

Photo Source

SESTRA Production Agency. The provided files are high-resolution photographs taken during the ceremony on September 26, 2026