PICO RIVERA, Calif. — Michael Amini, chairman, CEO and founder of AICO/Amini Innovation Corp., has been unanimously selected by the Ellis Island Honors Society board of directors to receive the Ellis Island Medal of Honor at a ceremony on historic Ellis Island, New York, this year.
The Ellis Island Medal of Honor ranks among America’s most prestigious awards, presented annually since 1986 to individuals whose accomplishments reflect a proud commitment to our nation’s ideals of diversity, opportunity and service.
The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have officially recognized the award, and each year’s recipients are entered into the Congressional Record.
Past recipients include Presidents Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton, six other U.S. presidents, Nobel Laureates and influential leaders such as Muhammad Ali.
The medal ceremony takes place during a black-tie gala held in Ellis Island’s Great Hall, which served as the gateway for over 12 million immigrants to the United States. All branches of the U.S. Armed Forces traditionally participate in the ceremony.
“This honor places Michael among a rare group of Americans and is truly something to celebrate,” said AICO President David Koehler. “His leadership and dedication to excellence reflect the very values this award was created to recognize.”
The Ellis Island Honors Society was founded on the conviction that the diversity of the American people is what makes this nation great. The organization honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation while celebrating the diverse backgrounds of all American citizens.

