Hellenic American Academy Annual Gala

Mae Calamos receives the Distinguished Philhellene Award from Chairman Demetrios G. Logothetis, far right, Executive Director Effie Gountanis, center, and Executive Board member Angelo Spyratos, far left.

The Hellenic American Academy held its Annual Gala at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

This year's gala celebrated the universal principles of Hellenism and the significance of Philia.

Philia teaches the value of shared joy, mutual respect and deep connection, principles that have been central to Hellenism and critical for guiding students towards a stronger and more compassionate society.

The evening transported guests to a plateia in Greece. Like one’s favorite village plateia, the academy is a gathering place. A place where a community comes together, shares dreams, celebrates achievements and is the heart of a community filled with so much history and inspiring stories.

At the Hellenic American Academy, close to 400 students are educated each year through the day school, Greek language programs and enrichment programs. The Academy strives to empower students not only with academic excellence but with a strong sense of Philia and a deep connection to their communities. Students make a daily pledge to be worthy members of the community through their thoughts, words, and actions. The school community provides students opportunities to put their pledge into action by offering them unique experiences that turn into meaningful memories, enabling students to grow to become confident and emphatic leaders.

Perry Siatis receives the Heritage Award from Chairman Demetrios G. Logothetis, left, and Executive Board member Angelo Spyratos, right.

On behalf of the Academy, Chairman of the Board, Demetrios G. Logothetis and officers honored and recognized the achievements of Mae Calamos, with the Distinguished Philhellene Award,  Perry Siatis, with the Heritage Award, and the Hellenic Foundation with the Service Award, all of whom have excelled in their respective field of endeavor and are dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the Hellenic language, culture, and values. Their stories are meant to inspire the students to continuously strive for excellence. Mae and her husband, John, are distinguished longtime members of Leadership 100.

Appreciation goes to the 2025 Gala Committee, Volunteers, Gala Sponsors, Silent Auction Donors, Executive Board, PTOs, and continued supporters of the Academy for another amazing Gala!

The Academy continues to provide a distinguished and high-quality bilingual education in a supportive value-based environment that will position students with future success!

Hellenic Foundation receives the Service Award from Chairman Demetrios G. Logothetis and Executive Board member Angelo Spyratos.