By Catherine Tsounis
The Sacred Patriarchal and Stavropegial Orthodox Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou Church School held its 52nd Alumni Anniversary Luncheon on Sunday afternoon, January 12, 2025. The event featured a lavish Greek luncheon, the traditional cutting of the Vasilopita, and exciting raffles with prizes. Music was provided by Yannis and Christos Manoloudis. Phaedra Makri Karageorgiou performed a piano presentation. Alumni graduates Evtihis Vagaloudis, Themistocles Dimitriadis, and Kaliope Poulios received special awards. Additionally, Mrs. Vasiliki Filiotis, former principal of St. Irene School and President of the Hellenic Paideia of America and Mrs. Alexandra Mpountali were honored for their years of dedicated service.
The luncheon brought together many who have contributed to the growth and expansion of the school. Grandparents, children, and grandchildren reflected on how the school has fostered their Greek identity and Greek Orthodox faith. V. Rev. Archimandrite Meletios Bougas serves as the presbyter/priest. Mrs. Stefania Antonoglou is the school principal. Ms. Maria Manoloudi, a Greek educator and psychologist, warmly welcomed all guests. Byzantine music classes are taught by Yannis Manoloudis, cantor of St. Nektarios Church in Brooklyn. Christos Manoloudis is the cantor of St. Irene Church. For more information and details, contact
“We are planning to expand the school,” said Principal Stephanie Antonoglou. “We are dedicated to promoting the Greek language, culture, and Greek Orthodox faith in our students. We are committed to educational excellence. Our school instills a love for Hellenic heritage that will last a lifetime.”
“Mrs. Vasiliki Filiotis is a remarkable educator,” stated V. Rev. Archimandrite Meletios Bougas. “She generously volunteered her services for free as school principal, made significant donations, and never sought payment or recognition. She is a selfless individual who is deeply committed to the ideal of preserving the Greek language, culture, and Greek Orthodox faith. Her sisters, Georgia and Adriana, have supported her in this mission.” Mrs. Filiotis, President of the Hellenic Paideia of America, has left a lasting impact. I had the privilege of teaching graduates of St. Irene’s Church School in a university-level Greek class. Their Greek was excellent. They proudly said, ‘We are graduates of St. Irene’s School.’ St. Irene’s School is truly fulfilling its mission.
Mrs. Stella Kokolis, President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America, praised Mrs. Filiotis. “Her admirable dedication to Hellenic education spans decades. She has supported Modern Greek language studies and encouraged young people to participate, leaving a valuable legacy for future generations.”
Mrs. Alexandra Mpountali was given an award “for outstanding teaching instruction in the kindergarten program.” Congratulations to the dedicated educator.
St. Irene’s church school is continuing excellence in 2025. “All who have meditated on the art of governing mankind have been convinced that the fate of empires depends on the education of youth.” – Aristotle1
Reference:
https://www.azquotes.com/
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