header Kashmir Study Group
 
 

Mr. Kathwari has received several recognitions, including.

  9.24.2018 - The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants honors Ethan Allen’s Farooq Kathwari
  The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) honored Farooq Kathwari, Chairman, President and CEO of Danbury-based Ethan Allen Interiors Inc., with its Legacy Award at a gala dinner in Westport, CT., on September 23.
He was chosen for this honor in recognition of his commitment to humanitarian causes, to justice and human dignity, and to the plight of displaced people across the world. Mr. Kathwari has served in numerous capacities at many nonprofit organizations; among them, he is currently a member of the Board of Overseers of the International Rescue Committee, and a chairman emeritus of Refugees International.
The gala commemorated CIRI's 100 years as the state’s leading champion for refugees, immigrants, survivors of torture, and survivors of human trafficking. Founded in 1918 as the International Institute of Connecticut (IICONN), CIRI remains the state’s preeminent provider of advocacy and high-impact services that empower new Americans to thrive in Connecticut. To view the press release, click here.
  6.12.2018 - -Farooq Kathwari Honored By Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute
  On June 12th, Farooq Kathwari accepted the Lifetime of Leadership Award of the Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute during a ceremony at the 93rd Yale CEO Summit in New York City. The theme of the summit was The American Colossus: The Best of Times and the Worst of Times? Distinguished global corporate leaders from across industries engaged in lively, candid discussions at this invitation-only leaders’ conference hosted by the Yale School of Management. To view the press release, click here.
  5.12.2018 - - Farooq Kathwari Receives Ellis Island Medal of Honor
  Farooq Kathwari was awarded the 2018 Ellis Island Medal of Honor on May 12 at a gala celebration at Ellis Island. The award, presented by the Ellis Island Foundation, recognizes “a select group of individuals whose accomplishments in their field and inspired service to our nation are cause for celebration… The Ellis Island Medals of Honor embody the spirit of America in their salute to tolerance, brotherhood, diversity and patriotism. Honorees may be native-born or naturalized, but most importantly, they are individuals who have made it their mission to share their wealth of knowledge, indomitable courage, boundless compassion, unique talents, and selfless generosity with those less fortunate.” To view the press release, click here.
  9.16.2017 - - Farooq Kathwari Receives Lifetime Achievement Award from The New American Dream Foundation
  Mr. Kathwari was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award during the fourth annual American Dream Awards Gala Dinner at the Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury, Connecticut. The American Dream Awards ceremony featured inspiring stories celebrating the contributions of generations of immigrants to the region.

The gala was hosted by The New American Dream Foundation, a nonprofit organization that highlights the cultural, social and economic contributions of all immigrants, while supporting the core American values of equal opportunity, progress and freedom in the areas of education, health and civic engagement.

https://vimeo.com/238820752

https://www.flickr.com/photos/151826633@N08/37360487666/in/album-72157688960008046
  4.17.2016 - - Farooq Kathwari receives Spirit of Life® Award from City of Hope
  On Sunday, April 17th, Mr. Kathwari was honored with a Spirit of Life® Award at the International Home Furnishings Industry Spirit of Life Award Dinner at the Grandover Resort in Greensboro, NC. The Spirit of Life® Award is presented to individuals who have made a difference: people who have influenced the industry with their character, leadership, and philanthropy.
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=81552&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=2161047
http://www.furnituretoday.com/article/530855-spirit-life-award-dinner-raises-18-million-city-hope
  11.15.2015 - - Kathwari is honored for his long-standing support of the Hebrew Home at Riverdale Foundation
  The Hebrew Home at Riverdale Foundation’s Board of Trustees recently honored Mr. Kathwari, a long-standing supporter of The Hebrew Home, during its 98th Annual Gala—a black-tie event, held at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. The Hebrew Home at Riverdale provides quality care for older adults, combining the latest in technologies with the compassion of its dedicated team of professionals.
http://www.riverspringhealth.org/gala-honoree.aspx
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/11/20/fashion/20151122-bill-cunningham-evening-hours.html?ref=fashion&_r=1
  3.27.2014 - - HOPE Community Services of Westchester presents Kathwari family with Commitment to Service Award
  During the 30th annual HOPE Gala, held at Beckwith Pointe Club in New Rochelle, NY, Farooq Kathwari, along with his wife and children, was presented with the prestigious Commitment to Service Award. Each year, this award is given to individuals who are dedicated to community building and helping others. HOPE Community Services operates the largest emergency food pantry and soup kitchen in the lower Hudson Valley region.
  12.14.2012 - - Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce presents Cecil J. Previdi award to Farooq Kathwari
  At the annual State of the City and Leaders Luncheon, held at Crowne Plaza Danbury, Mayor Mark Boughton joined members of the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce to present the Cecil J. Previdi award to Ethan Allen Chairman, President and CEO Farooq Kathwari. Each year, the Cecil J. Previdi award is given to a businessperson from the Danbury area who has demonstrated progressive business attitudes, vision, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial spirit that have led to the growth, development, and/or expansion of a local business that has made a significant economic contribution to the city of Danbury and the region.
Click here to view Danbury News-Times article.
  5.20.12 - - Tufts University awards Farooq Kathwari honorary Doctor of Public Service degree
  During Tufts University's 156th Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 20, 2012, Tufts President Anthony P. Monaco awarded Farooq Kathwari an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree "for combining corporate leadership with dedication to the highest ideals of global citizenship." To read the full story on TuftsNow.com
click here.
  4.26.12 - - Farooq Kathwari receives American Dream Award from the International Institute of New Jersey
  Farooq Kathwari was presented with an American Dream Award at the International Institute of New Jersey's annual American Dream Celebration on April 26. The American Dream Awards are presented to outstanding individuals in recognition of their contributions to American society in business, government, the arts, education and culture.
  12.20.11 - - Farooq Kathwari Recognized for Career and Humanitarian Achievements
  Congressman Gary Ackerman (D-NY) honored Mr. Kathwari for his tireless dedication to foster a dialogue for peace in much troubled regions, and to promote human rights around the world. Click here to see the statement entered into the Congressional House record on December 20, 2011.
  11.15.11 - - Honoree at U.S. Association for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) gala.
  The USA for UNHCR event commemorated the lifesaving efforts of the UN Refugee Agency, while honoring Mr. Kathwari for his dedication to raising awareness of the plight of refugees worldwide. “I am honored to be recognized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, an organization who has, in its 60 years, positively impacted so many lives,” said Kathwari. Click here to read the full press release.
  9.9.11 - - National Association of Asian MBA's (NAAMBA) Leadership Award
 

NAAMBA presented Farooq Kathwari with its Entrepreneurial Excellence Award. The award recognizes those individuals who have achieved significant entrepreneurial success through creativity, innovation, risk taking and relentless pursuit of opportunity and advancements, who have built a high performing venture and/or spearheaded efforts to foster exceptional growth of a business and contribute to community initiatives by assisting underserved individuals, institutions and organizations.

  10.18.09 - - American Furniture Hall of Fame Induction
 

Joining 78 Hall of Fame members, Mr. Kathwari was inducted into the American Furniture Hall of Fame during the High Point Market. The American Furniture Hall of Fame stated, “Farooq Kathwari has been the driving force behind Ethan Allen, a leading manufacturer and retailer of high quality home furnishings and interior design services. As President, Chairman and CEO, his distinguished leadership is further demonstrated through his service to the industry, the community, and the world." Click here to read the full press release

  1.22.09 - - South Asian Bar Association of New York - 2009 Corporate Leadership Award
 

The South Asian Bar Association of New York (SABANY) honored Farooq Kathwari with the 2009 Corporate Leadership Award at its annual Leadership Awards gala in recognition of South Asian individuals who are making their mark by demonstrating leadership within their profession and to their community.

  11.22.2008 -- Honoree at Westchester Arts Council's Gala
 

The Westchester Arts Council honored Farooq Kathwari for efforts to advance the business of design and his support of humanitarian causes.  "Art has the power to bring people together at a time when every effort is being made to divide people in the world," says Farooq Kathwari. To read the full article in Artsnews click here.

  5.18.2008 -- Honorary Doctorate Degree Presented by Western Connecticut State University
 

WSCU presented Farooq Kathwari with an honorary doctorate degree in recognition of his humanitarian efforts to bring peace to areas of conflict.  WSCU President, Dr. Schmotter, said,"Farooq Kathwari is one of America's most successful, thoughtful business leaders. His compelling observations on the nature of globalization and its impact on businesses, society and individual lives and careers have received acclaim in the U.S. and abroad."   To read the transcript of Mr. Kathwari's speech "Entering a Globalized World: Challenges and Opportunities, click here.

  5.08.2007 -- Asian American Federation 2007 Honoree
 

The Asian American Federation of New York each year recognizes outstanding individuals who have made a direct, substantive contribution to our society. Mr. Kathwari received the 2007 award at the Spirit of Asian America Gala event held May 8, 2007. Click here for more information .

  4.23.07 — 2007-Outstanding American by Choice Award
  Mr. Kathwari was honored as "Outstanding American by Choice" in a special ceremony at the U.S. State Department. The Outstanding American by Choice award recognizes the outstanding achievements of naturalized U.S. citizens through civic participation, professional achievement, and responsible citizenship. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice introduced Mr. Kathwari as the Chairman, President, and CEO of Ethan Allen as well as a respected voice in international affairs. The award was presented to Mr. Kathwari by Dr. Emilio Gonzalez, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service.
Click here to read the full story
  6.21.2006 — USCIB and BHF's 2006 Business Humanitarian Award
  Mr. Kathwari was awarded the 2006 Business Humanitarian Award by the United States Council for International Business (UCSIB) and the Business Humanitarian Forum (BHF) for his life-long involvement in humanitarian activities. Click here to read full press release.
  2.25.2006 — 2006 EPIIC Dr. Jean Mayer Global Citizenship Award
  The EPIIC Program at Tufts University bestowed one of the 2006 Dr. Jean Mayer Global Citizenship Awards to Mr. Kathwari. This award is given annually to scholars and practitioners whose moral courage, personal integrity and passion are dedicated to solving the most pressing problems facing the world. Click to read his comments.
  10.25.2005 — International Center of New York 2005 Honoree
  Mr. Kathwari was honored by the International Center of New York, which celebrated outstanding foreign-born individuals who have made a significant contribution to American life.
10.16.2005 — Eleanor Roosevelt Val-Kill Medal
  Mr. Kathwari was a 2005 Eleanor Roosevelt Val-Kill Medal recipient for his contributions toward bringing peace to the Kashmir region. The Eleanor Roosevelt Val-Kill Medal is awarded annually to outstanding individuals whose work reflects Mrs. Roosevelt’s humanitarian values, vision, and leadership. Read more... | Click to read his comments
  9.30.2005 — Development in Literacy Humanitarian Award
  Mr. Kathwari was honored with the 2005 DIL Humanitarian Award for his efforts in furthering DIL’s mission to eradicate illiteracy in the remote and neglected areas of Pakistan by establishing primary and secondary schools for underprivileged children.
  5.15.2005 — Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree from Sacred Heart University
  Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, the second-largest Catholic University in New England, bestowed an honorary doctorate degree on Mr. Kathwari as a result of his leadership in turning around one of America’s best-known brands, and for chairing such critical efforts as Refugees International and the Kashmir Study Group. Click here to read his comments
  11.6.2004 — American Furniture Manufacturers Association's Distinguished Service Award
  Mr. Kathwari received the AFMA’s Distinguished Service Award, given annually to recognize significant contributions to the home furnishings industry. Read more...
  9.29.2004 — International Furnishings and Design Association Revolutionary Retailer Award
  Mr. Kathwari was given the IFDA’s Revolutionary Retailer Award in recognition of his innovative merchandising and image-shaping strategies, which revolutionized a 70-year-old brand.
  5.2004 — Anti-Defamation League 2004 Humanitarian Award
  The Anti-Defamation League honored Mr. Kathwari with their 2004 Humanitarian Award for his efforts in advancing the cause of social justice and his commitment to the protection of human rights and personal dignity.
  1.14.2003 — National Retail Federation Gold Medal Award
  The National Retail Federation honored Mr. Kathwari with the prestigious Gold Medal Award, which is presented to an outstanding retailer for excellence, creative genius, and vision in leading their business and retail trade. Read more...
  1.13.2003 — International First Freedom Award
  Mr. Kathwari received this award from the Virginia-based Council for America’s First Freedom. Mr. Kathwari was recognized for his leadership of a campaign to foster unity among people of all faiths, with particular focus on developing a peace accord in Kashmir. Read more...
  12.3.2002 — Sound Shore Medical Center tribute
  Sound Shore Medical Center of Westchester, New York recognized Mr. Kathwari as an extraordinary individual who has made significant contributions to the corporate community and to SSMC.
  6.20.2002 — Southwest Connecticut/New York Hudson Valley Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year
  Mr. Kathwari was named 2002 Entrepreneur of the Year. The annual awards, selected by a panel of independent judges, are given to an elite group of entrepreneurs whose vision, innovation, and hard work have established and sustained successful and growing businesses.
  10.2002 — WOW Award for Mentoring by the Women in the Home Industries Today (WithIt)
  The WithIt organization honored Mr. Kathwari as the first male ever to receive their WOW award for Mentoring. The mentoring award is given to a retail executive who consistently fosters advocacy, development, and promotion of the women in their company.
  10.25.2001 — Connecticut Retail Merchants Association Retailer of the Year
  Ethan Allen was named the 2001 Retailer of the Year by the Connecticut Retail Merchants Association. Governor John G. Rowland bestowed this award to Mr. Kathwari, citing Mr. Kathwari’s commitment to his employees and to the state of Connecticut, and to providing quality products and services to Connecticut consumers.
  5.1999 — Worth Magazine’s The Best 50 CEOs
  Mr. Kathwari was named one of the best 50 CEOs by Worth Magazine. Worth publishes its list of “shining stars” based on their past accomplishments and the idea that they will continue to excel. Leaders selected for this list must show vision, integrity, focus, a willingness to take risks, and an unwavering belief in their abilities.
  12.1997 — Furniture/Today’s Leader of the Year Award
  Furniture/Today presented its first annual Leader of the Year award to Mr. Kathwari. The award was created to honor a retail or manufacturing executive who has demonstrated exceptional leadership during the past year. Mr. Kathwari was cited as the clear choice for this first award due to Ethan Allen’s strong results in 1997 and his leadership position on several key industry issues.
  10.25.1997 — The Islamic Center of Southern California American Muslim Achievement Award
  This prestigious award is presented annually to recognize members of the Muslim community who have made outstanding contributions in their fields of work and community.
  11.2.1995 — American Jewish Committee Institute of Human Relations Award
  The AJC proudly honored Mr. Kathwari with this prestigious award, recognizing his skills, influence and dedication to supporting those principles that ensure the freedom and well-being of all people.