Departments » Diversity Office » Impact

Arab American Impact

As we celebrate Arab American heritage and pay tribute to the remarkable accomplishments, contributions, and challenges faced by Arab Americans throughout history, we recognize the substantial advancements Arab Americans have achieved in our society. With this in mind, Racine County is committed to shining a spotlight on national, local, and individual Arab Americans who have made impactful strides in advancing our community and society at large.

NATIONAL IMPACT

danny thomas

Thomas was best known for his role as Danny Williams in the television sitcom "Make Room for Daddy" (also known as "The Danny Thomas Show"), which aired from 1953 to 1964. He was also the founder of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a leading pediatric treatment and research facility focused on catastrophic diseases, particularly childhood cancers. MORE
candy lightner

Candy Lightner is an American activist who co-founded Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in 1980. She started this organization after her 13-year-old daughter, Cari, was tragically killed by a drunk driver in 1980. MORE

McAuliffe was chosen from over 11,000 applicants to be the first civilian teacher in space, with the mission aimed at bringing space exploration closer to the classroom and inspiring students about science and space. The spaceship that McAuliffe was on was called the Challenger. MORE

COMMUNITY IMPACT

dr donna shalala

Dr. Donna Shalala is an accomplished figure in American politics, education, and public service. She notably served under President Bill Clinton’s administration as the Secretary of Health and Human Services, making her the nation’s longest-serving HHS secretary. Before her government service, she was the Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After leaving government service, she did become involved in various public service and advocacy roles during the George W. Bush administration. MORE
tony shalhoub

Shalhoub is perhaps best recognized for his role as the obsessive-compulsive detective Adrian Monk in the television series "Monk," which aired from 2002 to 2009. Shalhoub's portrayal of Monk earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award. MORE