MCU Honors NYPD Officer Ricardo DiCandia as a Most Valuable New Yorker

In continuing our efforts to recognize our everyday heroes that keep New York City great (even through the simplest gestures), Municipal Credit Union honored New York Police Department (NYPD) Officer Ricardo DiCandia as a Most Valuable New Yorker at the St. John’s University men’s basketball game on Sunday, February 17. Officer DiCandia was honored for his generosity, after he helped a family of Irish tourists achieve their dream of seeing the popular Broadway play Hamilton.

Dicandia, who has served with the NYPD for 10 years, was on the job when he was approached by Geraldine McKenna and her two daughters. The family was visiting New York City for the very first time and had been waiting in line for four days to get tickets to see the play Hamilton.  When it was finally their turn, they realized they were $20 short. Without hesitation, Officer DiCandia took $20 out of his pocket to cover the difference.

“We’re very proud to recognize Officer DiCandia as a Most Valuable New Yorker,” said MCU Assistant Vice President of Business Development & Member Relations Trisha Guy, who presented Officer DiCandia with his award. “Officer DiCandia actions exemplifies the spirit of New York and the credit union motto of “People Helping People.” We’d like to thank him for his generosity and commend him for being an example for all of us.” 

McKenna was so moved by Officer DiCandia’s actions, she wrote to New York City Mayor De Blasio about her experience.

“We were totally overjoyed and beyond grateful when he opened his wallet and just handed us $20,” McKenna wrote. “My eldest daughter was crying when she was speaking to him. It was without a doubt the best night that would not have been possible without Officer DiCandia’s generosity and kindness.”

This is the fourth year of MCU’s Most Valuable New Yorker program, which was created to recognize the hardworking men and women of New York City who selflessly go above and beyond to make New York a better place to work and live. Municipal Credit Union is proud to celebrate these individuals for their dedication to serving their communities and their inspirational stories that motivate each of us to make New York City amazing. MCU honors Most Valuable New Yorkers at various events throughout the city, including St. John’s University Basketball games, CUNY Athletics events, and Brooklyn Cyclones games held at MCU Park.