New York, NY: The Society of Indo-American Engineers and Architects hosted their 40th Annual Gala on November 12, 2022, which was attended by over 600 members and their guests. The theme of the Gala was the “Power of Diversity and Inclusion”. This theme reflects upon the diversity of groups and celebrates its uniqueness. It’s about helping people feel that they belong and that their contribution matters. Ketan Shah, SIAEA President said, “Our theme for the gala this year is ‘Power of Diversity and Inclusion’ and this theme could not have come at a better time, when so much is changing all around us. This theme is represented tonight not only in words, but in our special guests, honorees, and all the attendees in the audience too. Each person brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a strong sense of hard work, resilience, and future endeavors. A key part of the Gala is to recognize and award professionals who have contributed to the architectural, engineering and construction industry and to provide scholarships to a select group of current students who may need financial assistance.”
Many elected officials and dignitaries also attended the event to congratulate the award honorees and scholarship recipients. Long-time supporter and SIAEA friend, former NY State Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson was there along with NY State Assembly Members Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelym and Jenifer Rajkumar. Mr. Vipul Dev from the Indian Consul General Office was present as well. The Keynote Speaker for the Gala was Mr. Gordon Tung. Mr. Tung is a Vice President at NYC School Construction Authority.
The Chief Guest of the evening was Jamila Glean who is a Vice President at the Division of Minority & Women Business Development at the Empire State Development Corporation. Big supporters and long-time SIAEA sponsors, Past Presidents Nayan Parikh and Mihir Patel, also made sure that the Gala was a huge success.
2022 Special Honoree Awards
- Vipul Dev – Consul (Political and PIC) of India
- Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner, International Affairs, New York City
- Aileen del Prado, Senior, Director, NYC School Construction
2022 Honoree Awards
- Ali Chaudhry, Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer, AECOM
- Sandeep Mehrotra, Vice President, Hazen & Sawyer
- Hermie Patel, President, AME
- Jayesh Patel, Principal, Crest Engineering
- Chitra Radin, President, Radin Consulting
- Darsh Shah, Associate Principal, Super Structure
2022 Award Honoree for Under 40
- Priya Shah, Associate, Gensler
