Apr 8, 2010 -- New York - President and founder, Rabbi Arthur Schneier is presented with the Commander’s Cross with the Star of the Order of Merit by the Republic of Hungary, the highest recognition to a foreign citizen, in recognition of his efforts to promote and support religious freedom, human rights and tolerance and his contribution to the strengthening of ties between Hungary and the United States.

The presentation, on behalf of President László Sólyom, will be made by Ambassador Viktor Polgár, Consul General, and H.E. Márta Horváth Fekszi, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Hungary to the United States.

Rabbi Arthur Schneier, who survived the Holocaust in Budapest, was a member of the United States Presidential delegation for the return of the Crown of St. Stephen and has been in the forefront of cooperation between the religious communities of Hungary and the United States.

The Order of Merit is presented to recognize outstanding activities in enriching universal human interests and values, promoting the development of Hungary, enhancing the relations between Hungary and other nations.