The Federation of Hellenic-American Societies of Philadelphia and Greater Delaware Valley elected John Vasiliou as president and named its leadership team for the 2026-2027 term during a June 10 meeting at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Community Center in Upper Darby.
The election meeting, held at 7 p.m., brought together representatives of local Greek American organizations for the Federation’s annual leadership transition. Vasiliou was elected president by acclamation.
The newly elected officers are:
President: John Vasiliou
Vice President: Mike Economou
Recording Secretary: Maria Agatsiotis
Corresponding Secretary: Carissa Fafalios
Treasurer: Peter Papadeas
Judge Harry Karapalides, the outgoing president and a longtime community figure, will serve as chairman of the board.
The newly elected board members are:
John Mylonas
Ted Kanellopoulos
Dan Pithis
Demetrios Rozanitis
Stefanos Evangelopoulos
Georgia Chletcos
Tammy Demetris
Theanna Proithis
Speaking to the meeting after the vote, Vasiliou said he was honored to lead the Federation and thanked those who supported his nomination. He described the organization as one that has served the Greek American community since 1949.
“It’s a great honor, and I’m deeply appreciative of all the people that have supported my nomination,” Vasiliou said.
Looking ahead, Vasiliou pointed to several priorities already taking shape for the coming year. The Federation’s Greek Independence Day Parade in Philadelphia, scheduled for April 4, will be its largest event. He also mentioned the Federation’s developing relationship with the Philadelphia Marathon, including laurel wreaths connected to the Greek tradition of honoring athletic achievement.
Vasiliou also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work with Economou, calling him a friend and valued partner in the Federation’s work.
Economou congratulated Vasiliou and praised his preparation, commitment, and long-standing involvement in the community.
“He’s organized, he’s committed, and motivated,” Economou said. “We’re looking forward to a terrific year.”
The meeting also marked the close of Karapalides’ term as president. In his remarks, he reflected on the work of the past two years and pointed to several highlights of the outgoing administration.
One of those events was the Federation’s Dimitris Mpasis concert at Adelphia Restaurant & Event Center. The community music event supported the 2025 Greek Independence Parade and Celebrations.
Karapalides also cited the growth of the Young Leaders Committee, the start of the Federation’s association with the Philadelphia Marathon, the revamping of the parade and gala, the parade endowment fund, and stronger relationships with the Consulate General of Greece, the government of Greece, Philadelphia officials, local civic representatives, and the Metropolis of New Jersey.
He also said discussions had begun between Philadelphia and Greece around broader civic ties, including a sister city effort and the possible presentation of a statue from Greece to the city of Philadelphia for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Karapalides thanked the Federation’s members and supporters, saying the organization’s success came from everyone who participated, whether they worked throughout the year, helped on parade day, sold a ticket, bought an ad, or attended a meeting.
“Every bit of participation matters,” Karapalides said. “Together you’ve made our Federation a success.”
The new term begins with several concrete community efforts already in motion, including the April 4 Greek Independence Day Parade, the Philadelphia Marathon relationship, and civic initiatives tied to Philadelphia’s 250th anniversary year.