The Bayanihan Spirit Award
​First introduced at our 11th Annual Gala, the Bayanihan Spirit Award honors individuals and groups whose actions embody the true spirit of bayanihan — the Filipino value of communal unity, cooperation, and civic responsibility.
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Bayanihan is rooted in the tradition of neighbors coming together to accomplish great tasks, most famously illustrated by the iconic image of an entire community lifting and carrying a house to a new location. Beyond its literal meaning, it represents a spirit of generosity, collective effort, and helping others without expectation of reward. Throughout Filipino history, bayanihan has inspired people to support one another in times of challenge and to work together toward shared progress.
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In that same spirit, the Bayanihan Spirit Award recognizes those in our community — regardless of background or heritage — who help advance the mission and vision of the Filipino American Society of Iowa. Awardees exemplify selflessness, cooperation, and leadership that uplifts our community and strengthens the bonds of unity we celebrate as Filipino Americans.
2024 Awardees
Kevin Schneider has served the Polk County Sheriff’s Department for over 40 years, becoming Sheriff in 2018 and winning reelection in 2020. He is an active leader in law enforcement at the state and national levels, serving with the Iowa State Sheriffs and Deputies Association, National Sheriffs’ Association, Major County Sheriffs of America, and the Iowa Police Chiefs Association.
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Sheriff Schneider’s impact extends far beyond his official role. He has partnered with the Filipino American Society for events such as Pagtulong Day, self-defense workshops, and vaccination clinics, strengthening trust between law enforcement and the AAPI community. He also volunteers his time with organizations including the Za-Ga-Zig Shrine, Boy Scouts of America, Wreaths Across America, and Special Olympics Iowa.
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In 2024, the Filipino American Society honored Sheriff Schneider with the Bayanihan Spirit Award for his leadership, service, and commitment to building community.
Mitch Henry, a former Board Member of the Filipino American Society, has been a strong advocate for the AAPI community for nearly 40 years. Over the past decade, he has volunteered extensively with FAS, helping expand its reach through partnerships with other organizations and championing initiatives to support first-generation immigrants. His efforts include lobbying legislators to make Iowa a more welcoming state for newcomers and strengthening the visibility of the Filipino American community.
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Beyond his work with FAS, Mitch has served as a political advisor to campaigns at every level, from city to federal races. He has held leadership roles with the Central Iowa Center for Independent Living (CICIL), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the Asian and Latino Coalition, and currently serves as President of the Iowa Unity Coalition. A U.S. Navy veteran with service at Subic Bay, Mitch continues to foster bonds between Filipino and veteran communities.