No. 5

WASHINGTON, DC — The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) will host its 52nd Anniversary Hellenic Heritage Achievement & National Public Service Awards Dinner on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at The Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C. The black-tie event will bring together leaders from public service, business, faith, and the Greek American community to honor individuals whose lives and careers exemplify Hellenic values, service, and leadership.

The honorees for the awards dinner are:

Helen A. Carlos will be honored for her lifelong commitment to faith-centered leadership, education, and institutional stewardship within the Greek Orthodox Church. A longtime trustee and senior leader of Hellenic College Holy Cross, Ms. Carlos has played a pivotal role in strengthening the institution’s academic mission and long-term stability. Her legacy includes founding the St. Helen’s Pilgrimage for seminarians and sustained support for initiatives that prepare future clergy and lay leaders, reflecting a deep sense of responsibility to the Church and its future.

Savas C. Tsivicos will be recognized for decades of leadership advancing Greek American and Cypriot causes through civic engagement, advocacy, and humanitarian service. An immigrant from Cyprus, Mr. Tsivicos has combined professional success as a business leader with sustained service across major Hellenic organizations, including having served two-terms as AHEPA Supreme President. He has been a prominent voice for justice, human rights, and a lasting resolution to the Cyprus issue, earning wide recognition in the United States and abroad.

Stavros “Steve” Veletsis will be honored for a lifetime defined by resilience, faith, and commitment to Hellenic heritage. From his early life in Constantinople and forced exile to Greece, to building a distinguished career in the American hospitality and food services industry, Mr. Veletsis has exemplified perseverance and service. His philanthropy spans Orthodox Christian missions, humanitarian relief, and the preservation of historic Hellenic and Orthodox sites.

The evening will be hosted by Mike Emanuel, Chief Washington correspondent for FOX News Channel, who will serve as Master of Ceremonies. The program will include a silent auction and reception, followed by dinner and the formal awards presentation.

“We are proud to present a program that reflects both the enduring mission of AHI and the values that have guided our work for more than five decades,” President Nick Larigakis said. “This year’s honorees exemplify the very best of Hellenic leadership, service, and commitment to community. Each has excelled in their respective fields and set extraordinary examples through their dedication to faith, public service, and advocacy. We look forward to honoring their achievements.”

Additional Weekend Events

In addition to the Awards Dinner, AHI will host a Policy Briefing and Breakfast by Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic Antonis Alexandridis and Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus Evangelos Savva on the morning of Saturday, March 21, at The Capital Hilton. A sponsors-only reception will take place on Friday evening, March 20.

For information regarding sponsorship opportunities, tickets, and the full weekend program, click here.

AHI Announces Honorees for 52nd Anniversary Hellenic Heritage Achievement & National Public Service Awards Dinner

AHI Athens Chapter Rings in Grand Anniversary Year with Vasilopita Dinner