Chicago based entrepreneur and community leader, Nick Patel, was invited by President Obama to attend a reception in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage at The White House on June 22, 2011. At this reception President Obama acknowledge the contributions and accomplishments of the AAPI community leaders. Business owners such as Patel were encouraged to continue supporting their community through offering jobs through their businesses and strengthening the nation’s economy.

Nick Patel is the owner and founder of LA Tan, one of the nation’s largest tanning chains. Through hard work, dedication and a sharp business sense Nick has expanded his business from his first three tanning salons in 2001 to one hundred sixty locations, in six states, in 2011. Patel is the perfect example of an individual working his way up from meager beginnings and achieving the American dream.