Camden Chapter 69 of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association hosted a testimonial dinner and dance on January 25, 2026, honoring Anastasios Efstratiades as AHEPAN of the Year. The event was held at the Adelphia Ballroom in Deptford, New Jersey.
Efstratiades, president of Saint Thomas Greek Orthodox Church in Cherry Hill, was recognized for his leadership, longstanding service to the community, and dedication to AHEPA initiatives, including the Journey to Greece program. He was also honored for his role in advancing the church’s iconography project, a major undertaking that has reshaped the parish’s spiritual and visual life.
The evening opened with remarks from Chapter President Tasos Malapetsas, followed by reflections from the Very Reverend Christoforos Oikonomides, formerly of St. Thomas and now serving at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Proistamenos Father Georgios Oikonomou of St. Thomas presented Efstratiades with an icon of Saint Iakovos of Evia in recognition of his lifelong service.
Federation President Harry Karapalides addressed the gathering with a tribute highlighting Efstratiades’s commitment to Hellenic values and the Orthodox faith. District 5 Governor Lou Stefanou presented the official district commemorative plaque, followed by a chapter plaque from the brothers of Camden Chapter 69.
During the program, the chapter also marked the completion of its $100,000 pledge toward the church’s iconography project, a milestone that drew strong applause from attendees.
Additional tributes were offered by Past Supreme Presidents Savas Tsivicos and George G. Horiates, who both spoke to Efstratiades’s decades of service to AHEPA and the broader Greek-American community.
In his closing remarks, Efstratiades thanked his family, the parish of St. Thomas, and his fellow AHEPA brothers. Reflecting on his long involvement with the organization, he emphasized AHEPA’s continued role in strengthening faith, heritage, and service within Greek-American life.