THE Hellenic American Academy (HAA) organized its spectacular Annual Gala 2018 on Saturday, February 17 at Loews Chicago O’Hare. This year’s Gala, with the theme “It is now» celebrated the evolution of the school and its future. The theme Time is Now was appropriate as the Academy continues to aim to redefine Greek-American education for the modern era. Installed in its new location at 445 Pine St, Deerfield, Illinois, the occasion for celebration was indeed great as the school continues to grow and exceed expectations, resulting in an increase of over 20% in registrations at the Academy’s exceptional Socrates day school.
A Greek American, three-time Emmy Award-winning television producer and co-host and producer of Morning Radio, Cathy Vlahogiannis served as mistress of ceremonies and began the evening by sharing how she was inspired by her Greek heritage and her time as a fellow Socrates Day School graduate.
The three co-presidents, Dina Pappas Panagos, Eleni Papasimakis& Georgia Pontikes shared moving speeches that touched on their own experiences as graduates of the Socrates School and expressed the many reasons they now educate their own children at the Hellenic American Academy and their commitment to this institution.
Jim LogothetisChairman of the HAA Executive Committee, presented the evening’s awards to two outstanding Hellenic Americans who have devoted significant time, talent and treasure to the preservation of the Greek Orthodox faith and heritage. Georges Behrakis, a Greek-American businessman, medical researcher, retired pharmacist and philanthropist, who has contributed to numerous organizations and establishments, including Leadership 100 and National Hellenic Society, received the Heritage Award. George emphasized the importance of Greek education, as the ethos and respect were and still are learned and practiced in Greek schools. Pierre Maroutsos, a finance and operations executive in the financial services industry and long-time supporter of the Academy, received the Service Award. He believes that now is the time to bring all generations together to preserve our Hellenic heritage and culture.
This year’s event also included a pledge drive and silent auction to benefit the HAA and its educational mission. A walk through the museum featured priceless pieces created by HAA students, each representing an era in ancient Greek history. The 5th to 8th grade students of the Academy also paid a moving tribute to Antigone. DJ John Grammatis And Perifania Dance Troupe brought the crowd of over 400 attendees to their feet as the gala audience danced the night away, reunited with old friends and made new friendships, all for a great cause!
About Hellenic American Academy
Hellenic American Academy is home to Socrates Day School, a private bilingual K-8 organization. The school also offers Greek language and culture classes on Saturdays for students and adults.
HAA gives Chicago students a competitive edge as they begin their college careers. HAA has been recognized by the University of Crete as a model of outstanding Greek Orthodox education. Students consistently score in the 90th percentile on national standardized tests.
