BOSTON, MA – GNUSA
The Annual Convention of the Pan-Pontian Federation of the USA and Canada was held October 10–11, in Boston, MA, graciously hosted by the Pontiaki Estia of Massachusetts. Representatives from Pontian organizations across North America gathered for a weekend dedicated to meaningful dialogue, cultural celebration, and the strengthening of community bonds.
Participating organizations included: Brotherhood Pontion Toronto “Panagia Soumela”, Pontian Association of Montreal “Efxinos Pontos”, Pontian Society “Pontos” of Norwalk, Pontian Society of Boston “Panagia Soumela”, Phoenix Pontian Association of Cleveland, Greek Pontian Society of Chicago “Xeniteas”, Pontian Society “Komnini” of New York, Pontian Society “Akritai” of Philadelphia, Pontian Society of Southeast USA “Argonaftes”, Holy Institution of Panagia Soumela, Asia Minor and Pontos Hellenic Research Cente.r
The Convention opened Friday evening with a warm welcome reception at the Lesxi of Pontiaki Estia, featuring traditional Pontian music and dance. On Saturday, delegates engaged in productive discussions focused on current initiatives and accomplishments, emphasizing the Federation’s commitment to strengthening community ties, increasing youth involvement, expanding educational programs, and developing strategic plans to broaden its reach.
A highlight of the day was the keynote address by Professor Eurydice Georganteli of Harvard University. Her presentation, “A Lost World? Euxeinos Pontos,” explored the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Black Sea region, inspiring attendees to continue preserving the Pontian legacy.
The Convention concluded Saturday evening with the annual dinner dance, a vibrant celebration of Pontian culture and community. Former presidents of the Federation were honored with commemorative plaques in recognition of their leadership and lasting contributions to Pontian Hellenism across North America and beyond. Honorees included: Konstantinos Kotsalidis, Nikolaos Kotsampoikidis, Dimitrios Molochidis, Michalis Mouratidis, Ilias Papadopoulos, Panagiotis Staurianidis, Ilias Tsekeridis and Konstantinos Tsilfidis.
The late Vasilios Vasiliadis, Damos Kyriakidis, and Nikolaos Marmandis were honored posthumously for their service and dedication.
Attendees were deeply moved by the performance of the Pontiaki Estia dance group, whose passion and talent showcased the vitality of the younger generation. The evening culminated in a spirited celebration of Pontian heritage, with live performances by Ioannis Sanidis, Stathis Tsairidis, Vangelis, and Mihalis Pesiridis, creating an atmosphere of unity and cultural pride.
President Miltiadis Tsavdaridis and the Federation’s Board of Directors extended heartfelt thanks to George Panitsidis, President of Pontiaki Estia of Massachusetts, the Executive Board, and all volunteers for their gracious hospitality and tireless efforts in hosting the Convention. Special appreciation was also expressed to all delegates for their active participation and shared dedication to preserving, promoting, and celebrating Pontian heritage.
“This weekend reaffirmed the Federation’s mission to unite Pontians across North America—not only through shared tradition and history, but through meaningful dialogue, intergenerational connection, and collective vision. As we look ahead, the spirit of this gathering reminds us that our heritage lives on through our unity, our stories, and our commitment to ensuring that Pontian culture continues to thrive for generations to come”.
2025 Phrontistirion of Trapezounta Scholarship
During the Convention, the 2025 Phrontistirion of Trapezounta Scholarship recipients were announced. This year’s awards were presented to: Sophia Semertzidis of Cleveland, OH, pursuing a degree in Physical Therapy at Ohio State University and Theodora Vounotripidis of Toronto, Ontario, studying Early Childhood Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University
The scholarships were awarded in honor of the late George Mavropoulos, founder and director of the Asia Minor and Pontos Hellenic Research Center (AMPHRC), and the late Vasilios Vasiliadis, founding member and past president of the Holy Institution of Panagia Soumela.
As was beautifully stated, their enduring legacies continue to inspire and guide the Federation’s mission, exemplifying the power of dedication and scholarship in preserving Pontian history and culture for future generations.
