George Logothetis, Kostas Alexakis, NHS Honored at AHI Awards 2025

Hundreds of Greek Americans gathered at the United States capital for the 2025 AHI Awards, honoring Greek-American businessmen Kostas Alexakis and George Logothetis alongside the National Hellenic Society, a prominent Greek American organization. The annual event is organized by the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) and celebrates individuals and organizations that have made exemplary contributions to both the Greek American community and society at large.

George Logothetis Honored at AHI Awards

Receiving the AHI honor, George Logothetis, Executive Chairman of Libra Group and Chairman of Libra Philanthropies, delivered an unscripted yet inspiring speech titled “Hellenism, America & the Power of Democracy”.

Logothetis was honored with the 2025 Hellenic Heritage Achievement Award for his inspirational leadership and commitment to the enduring values of Hellenism.

Following a moving video tribute to the founding of Libra Group, Logothetis spoke on three interconnected themes—Washington, America, and Greek values—earning a resounding standing ovation.

He recalled visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery as a 29-year-old from North London, and a full-circle moment two decades later when he returned to lay a wreath alongside the Greek Ambassador and U.S. Commanding General Andrew Poppas. Reflecting on those visits, he said, “If you want to understand the construct of possibility, opportunity, and potential that is the United States, come to Washington and spend one day visiting those monuments and reading the words written on their walls.”

Describing America as “a tribe of tribes; a nation of nations,” he contrasted it with a world often ruled by oppression rather than empowerment. He emphasized the influence of Greek values—how “Democracy 1.0” was reborn in America as “Democracy 2.0.”

Logothetis closed with two guiding Greek phrases that continue to shape his journey today: “Kathe embodio gia kalo”—every obstacle for the better—and “Panda bros”—always forward.

Kostas Alexakis Honored at AHI Awards

Kostas Alexakis, Chairman and CEO of USL Financials, was honored with the 2025 Hellenic Heritage National Public Service Award. He delivered a powerful speech titled “Hellenism is a Living Force.”

During his passionate remarks — that also received a standing ovation — Alexakis reflected on his journey from a small Greek village, where one teacher taught 36 children across six grades in a single room. He recounted his family’s immigration to the U.S. on April 21, 1967, arriving aboard the Anna Maria in New York before settling in Arlington, Virginia.

Highlighting the communities built across the United States, he reminded the audience, “Hellenism is more than history—it is a living force carried forward by every Greek who believes in the ideals of freedom, integrity, and excellence.” He spoke of heritage not as an object of the past, but as a driving force behind the progress of nations worldwide.

Alexakis expressed deep gratitude for Gene Rossides, recognizing his influence on his own personal development and his leadership in founding the American Hellenic Institute—a forward-thinking effort to advocate for Hellenic and Cypriot interests, uphold the rule of law, and influence U.S. policy in the Eastern Mediterranean.

He noted, “This award is a tribute to the enduring power of Hellenism. It celebrates the values that define us as a people—a commitment to democracy and justice, and the rule of law.” He also reinforced that being Greek is not just a birthright but a calling, urging the audience to “continue together to build a future that honors our past.”

The National Hellenic Society (NHS), another prominent Greek American organization, was honored at the event with the American Hellenic Institute’s Hellenic Heritage National Public Service Award. The NHS was recognized for its dedication to preserving and promoting Hellenic heritage in the United States through a range of impactful programs and initiatives. The prestigious award was graciously accepted by NHS Chair of the Board, Lea Soupata, alongside two of the 1000+ outstanding alumni of the Heritage Greece Program® Francesca Rimbos and Jenna Temple, who represented the organization’s continued success in nurturing future generations of Greek American leaders.

The 51st AHI Hellenic Heritage Achievement and National Public Service Awards Dinner took place at the Capitol Hilton in Washington, DC  on March 8. The event was attended by an audience of 300, including Greek American dignitaries, business leaders, and students.

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