PHILADELPHIA, PA – [Photo: Peter Kallitsopoulos]
The Federation of Hellenic American Societies of Philadelphia and Greater Delaware Valley gathered for their monthly meeting on June 10 and, at the conclusion, conducted its annual elections (2026-2027) at the St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Community Center in Upper Darby, PA.
John Vasiliou was elected President, succeeding Judge Harry Karapalides. He stated that he was honored to lead the Federation and thanked all those who supported him.
Joining Vasiliou on the Executive Board are Michael Economou (Vice President), Maria Agatsiotis (Recording Secretary), Carissa Fafalios (Corresponding Secretary), Peter Papadeas (Treasurer). All of them were re‑elected to serve another term.
The new Board of Directors consists of Harry Karapalides (Chairman), Georgia Chletcos, John Mylonas, Ted Kanellopoulos, Dan Pithis, Demetrios Rozanitis, Stefanos Evangelopoulos, Tammy Demetris, and Theanna Proithis.
During the final meeting before the elections, the final financial report for the 2026 Greek Independence Parade was presented. As it was noted, fundraising this past year was at an all-time high, exceeding expenses by over $300,000. It was reported that the final assets of the year for the Federation stand at over $725,000, putting the organization in a great position moving forward.
Outgoing Federation President Judge Harry Karapalides and attorney Tassos Efstratiades delivered a presentation for a proposed endowment fund specifically restricted for the Parade.
The Plan of Operation documents were unanimously approved by the General Assembly and the first ever Greek Parade specific endowment fund will now be created and funded before the Federation reconvenes in September.
As Past Parade Chairman John Vasiliou stated, “Our entire Greek Community of Philadelphia shines, as this is the most important moment in the history of our Federation”.
“Today we formally secured the future of our Parade so that future generations do not have to carry the heavy burden of fundraising extraordinary amounts of money but instead can put their energy into the tremendous planning and execution of the annual event”, he added.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Karapalides gave his exiting speech as the outgoing President before the elections were conducted. “I was honored to serve these past two years, once again as your President”, he stated noting that “we made many positive steps forward”, highlighting the new initiative to partner with the Philadelphia Marathon and the Consulate of Greece in New York, to gift the gold crowns to the winners of the Philadelphia Marathon. “I know the next President will continue this wonderful new tradition”, he added.
As reported, the Philadelphia 2027 Greek Independence Day Parade will be held on April 4.
