PLAINVIEW, NEW YORK: Raj Mehta, the chairman and CEO of Infosys International Inc., is the first Indian American to win one of Networking Magazine's prestigious 2008 David Awards. Named for the Michelangelo's Statue of David, The David Awards each year celebrates eight Long Island-based men for their dedication and commitment to business and their communities.

This year's honorees also included such luminaries as Dr. Drew Bogner, Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Anthony V. Curto, Patrick G. Halpin, Emilio Hernandez, Gordian Raacke, and John Roland. The event was held on January 17, 2008 at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury.

A native of Gujarat state in India, Mehta has made a difference on Long Island, helping to ensure that the region is a better place to both live and work. Arriving in the United States with only six dollars in his pocket, Mehta has since made it a point to create economic and social opportunities for others.In 1986 Mehta launched Infosys International, a business and information technology consulting firm. Over time, his client roster has grown to include Ernst and Young; Fortune 500 companies; offices of the state, county and local government; small businesses, school districts and much more.

The firm has achieved many accomplishments, and helped others achieve as well. In 1998, KPMG-Peat Marwick and Hofstra University honored Infosys with an Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, recognizing the firm as the "Fastest Growing Software Company on Long Island."

In 2004, he designed a Web site to help small and mid-sized businesses bid on federal contracts from the Department of Homeland Security.Mehta's nonprofit activities in the region include serving as a founding member and on the board of directors of the Long Island Software and Technology Network, as well as a member of the board of directors of Foundation for Sight and Sound.

He was a member, treasurer and vice chairman of former Suffolk County Executive Pat Halpin's Coalition of Minority Businesses, and currently serves on the advisory board of the Town of North Hempstead Business and Tourism Corporation. In 2004, he led the town in creating its first annual Diwali Festival, celebrating India's festival of lights and colors.

Mehta is also a member of BAPS Cares, an international organization that provides services including disaster relief to India and other parts of the world."It is a very big honor to receive a David Award," Mehta said.

"I congratulate all the other winners, and feel privileged to be included in this distinguished group."