From Zambia, Africa, to Salt Lake City, it has been a journey of prosperity for Dinesh C. Patel, managing director and founding partner of the Salt Lake City-based vSpring Capital.

Recently, Patel became the first Utahn to receive the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, nominated him for the award, which honors American citizens of diverse origins who have made contributions to the nation.

"He nominated him because he believes he is a good example of serving others and giving to the community," said Heather Barney, Sen. Hatch's Utah spokeswoman. "He's been a very successful businessman and a dedicated community leader."

The award was presented by the New York-based National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations, which works as an umbrella over 250 organizations nationwide. It was given May 13 at the Great Hall on Ellis Island.

"It's a humbling experience," Patel said. "I knew it was a pretty big award, but when you go there and see the people who are a part of this award it is a pretty big deal."

Patel was honored with about 100 other individuals, including those in social service, entrepreneurs, physicians and politicians, during a ceremony and gala dinner. Past honorees include six presidents and Nobel Peace Prize winners.

"It celebrates the diversity of the nation," Patel said. "I know we have a lot of people who deserve to be on that list."

Four days later, he was honored in Utah as the winner of the 2006 Pathfinder award, named by Edison Showcase, a networking event for inventors, entrepreneurs and high-tech start-ups.