In a display of camaraderie and appreciation, the Federation of Hellenic American Societies of Philadelphia and Greater Delaware Valley hosted their annual Dignitaries Banquet on Saturday. The evening spotlighted two prestigious award presentations: the 2023 Eleftheria Medal and the Grand Marshal.
The night began with a warm welcome from the Mistress of Ceremonies, Lauren Mayk, a reporter for NBC10 News. The Color Guard-Presidential Guard of The Hellenic Republic then made a striking entrance, followed by Christina Tripolitis Paxinos’ heartfelt rendition of the Greek and United States National Anthems. His Eminence, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, offered the Invocation.
The distinguished Eleftheria Medal was bestowed upon Her Excellency Alexandra Papadopoulou, the Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to the United States of America. The honor of Grand Marshal of the Independence Parade was conferred upon the Ambassador of the United States to the Hellenic Republic, His Excellency George J. Tsunis.
The banquet was further enriched by the insightful speeches delivered by special guests, The Honorable US Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis and The Honorable US Congressman Donald Norcross. The evening also saw the Federation acknowledging the lasting contributions of Nicholas Karabots, a philanthropist, businessman, and steadfast benefactor to the Greek Independence Day Parade.
The annual Dignitaries Banquet not only celebrated the achievements of prominent individuals within the Hellenic community but also served as a reminder of the shared values and aspirations that unite the Hellenic people across the globe.