WASHINGTON — John Shalam, chairman and founder of Voxx International, was one of three honorees at the Consumer Electronics Association’s (CEA) 10th annual Digital Patriots’ Dinner, here, last week.
The event, held at the National Building Museum, also honored Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio). They were selected for their role in driving the economy through innovation and their dedication to ensuring that the U.S. remains a technology leader.
In his introduction, Gary Shapiro, president/ CEO of CEA, reviewed the many contributions Shalam has made to the organization. He has been an active member of CEA as a member of the Board of Industry Leaders, chairman of its investment committee and Charitable Foundation, and founder of the CEA wireless communications division.
Shapiro noted that Voxx, originally named Audiovox, was founded by Shalam in the mid- 1960s and owns many famous CE brands worldwide. Shalam’s success has enabled him to “give back” and “live the American dream.”
Much of Shalam’s speech, as well as the remarks of Klobuchar, Portman and Shapiro, discussed the support of the immigration bill pending in Congress.
CEA said all proceeds raised from the Digital Patriots Dinner were donated to the CEA Foundation and the Fisher House Foundation.