“E Pluribus Unum:" out of many, one.   That is the Latin phrase handed down from our forefathers and inscribed on the coins and currency that pass through our fingers daily.  In recognition of that motto, I held a quarter up to the scores of men and women whom I had the honor of addressing at the induction ceremony for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services in Dallas, Texas, on June 18.  

As I looked out to the audience, I could see the diverse group of newly minted U.S. citizens ready to be part of a spectacular “one.” 

This was a privilege that I wish every American could experience.  In my capacity as an inaugural member of the Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship initiative, I presented each individual with a Certificate of Naturalization.   Our eyes met, we shook hands and I felt the pride and accomplishment of people from 27 countries as they received the full rights and benefits of citizenship in the greatest country in the world. 

From Russia to Zimbabwe, from the Netherlands to Colombia, my new fellow Americas and I were brimming with pride at the opportunity afforded us to contribute economically, raise our families and give of ourselves in service.

I shared with them my own history, emigrating with my parents to the U.S. from Quito, Ecuador, in the 1960’s.  As I and my brother and sisters grew up, our parents taught us the meaning of civic service by words and example.  At the dinner table, they told us to “dream big and do big.”   They took leadership roles in business and in our hometown, employing others and giving of their time. 

Thanks to their vision and the opportunities afforded us, we have worked to follow their lead.  My company Pinnacle Group, a global provider of workforce services, places thousands of consultants in professional positions among the most respected corporations in the nation.  Among our core values are a pride in diversity and a commitment to serve the communities where we work and live. 

It is on the shoulders of many, that our country can be a magnificent “one.”  And as I told those new citizens, it is incumbent on all of us to take responsibility for this vision.  We must cherish our right to vote and contribute where we can.

As I congratulated each individual, I knew they agreed. If this cohort of U.S. citizens is any indication, the future of our country is very promising indeed