Immigrants become U.S. citizens at Schaumburg library

Working, studying and preparing for U.S. citizenship culminated with a naturalization ceremony Sept. 21 for 82 immigrants who took the Oath of Allegiance at the Schaumburg Township District Library.

The group of new citizens originated from 24 different countries, but now pledge their allegiance to the United States of America.

Welcomed by Martha Medina, field office director for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the group was honored with a Presentation of Colors by Schaumburg-Hoffman Estates American Legion Post 1983.

Singer Kimberly Younglove, accompanied by pianist Terry Younglove, led the national anthem prior to the presentation of candidates called by Stacey Summers, branch chief of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Following the oath, library Director Stephanie Sarnoff introduced keynote speaker and library board President Robert Frankel.

“I am proud that the library has the opportunity to play a role in something so important as the swearing in of new citizens,” Sarnoff said. “It was a powerfully moving and inspiring ceremony.”

Arrangements for holding a Naturalization Oath Ceremony at the library were made by the library’s Extension Services Director Barbara Adrianopoli and literacy coordinator Pat Barch.

Following the ceremony, the new U.S. citizens and their families were invited to stay for refreshments.