Philadelphia, PA — February 15, 2026 — In the city where American democracy was born, AHEPA Chapter 26 Hercules Spartan of Greater Philadelphia celebrated an extraordinary milestone, one hundred years of uninterrupted service, brotherhood, faith, and philanthropy.
Held at the elegant Arts Ballroom, the centennial celebration brought together national AHEPA leadership, clergy, elected officials, district representatives, neighboring chapters, and families of past leaders for an evening that honored legacy while reaffirming commitment to the future of organized Hellenism.
Chapter President Paul Kotrotsios opened the evening by framing the significance of the moment. “Tonight, here in historic Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, we gather to mark an extraordinary milestone: one hundred years of AHEPA Chapter 26 of Greater Philadelphia. One hundred years of service. One hundred years of brotherhood. One hundred years of faith, family, and philanthropy.”
Founded in 1926 under the national banner of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association, Chapter 26 has proudly preserved Hellenic heritage while embracing the enduring American ideals of democracy, freedom, and opportunity. For a full century, it has stood as a pillar of the Greek-American community in Greater Philadelphia, strengthening civic engagement while maintaining a disciplined commitment to its mission.
The celebration was graced by His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey, who offered the Invocation, alongside esteemed clergy. National AHEPA leadership was strongly represented by Supreme President Chris Kaitson, Supreme Vice President Dr. Zenon Christodoulou, Supreme Secretary Themis Frangos, and Past Supreme President George Horiates. District Governor Tim Vlassopoulos was present, along with guests from Districts 4 and 5, as well as Presidents and members of neighboring Chapters 445 and 69, underscoring the unity and strength of the broader AHEPA family.
Councilman Mike Driscoll, representing the City of Philadelphia, accompanied by his Chief of Staff Frank Forkin, presented official recognition on behalf of the city, affirming the Chapter’s longstanding civic contribution to the region.
The evening’s keynote address was delivered by Mr. Ilias Katsos, Past Delphi Chapter 25 President, Past AHEPA District 6 Governor, and Chair of the 2026 Greek Independence Day Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York City. His leadership and dedication to Hellenism reflected the very spirit celebrated throughout the evening, continuity, discipline, and service.
In his keynote address, Mr. Katsos reflected on the enduring bond between Hellenism and American democracy, noting that the ideals of liberty and civic virtue that shaped the United States were deeply rooted in classical Greek thought. Marking 205 years since the Greek Revolution and 250 years since the American Declaration of Independence, he described these milestones as part of a shared democratic continuum. He praised AHEPA Chapter 26 for translating ancient ideals into modern service and strengthening the bridge between Greece and America for a century.
President Kotrotsios reflected on the responsibility embraced by the current Board to rebuild and strengthen this historic Chapter. “As a Board, we accepted the responsibility of rebuilding and strengthening this Chapter because we understand its history and believe in its people,” he noted.
Special tribute was paid to those who laid the foundation upon which the Chapter proudly stands, including Past President Tassos Efstratiades, as well as the late John Manos, the late Judge Lagakos, the late Ernie Chletcos, members of the Colligas family, and countless others whose legacy continues through their families.
The centennial was not merely a reflection of longevity, but of sustained relevance. For decades, Chapter 26 has sponsored scholarships, supported educational initiatives, promoted Hellenic Genocide awareness, and contributed to medical research. In a meaningful highlight of the evening, the Chapter presented an initial donation of $4,000 to support Thalassemia research through the important work of Dr. Zisis Chroneos, reaffirming its commitment to philanthropy and medical advancement.
President Kotrotsios also expressed gratitude to the Chapter’s Board of Directors, Dr. George Tsilomelekis, Leonidas Melissinos, Jim Petkovits, and Dr. Paul Karagiannis, for their dedication and stewardship, and extended appreciation to the management and staff of the Arts Ballroom, especially John Hatzikostas, for hosting the historic evening.
One hundred years represents more than time. It reflects discipline, organization, and generational continuity. In an era when many institutions struggle to maintain engagement, AHEPA Chapter 26 stands as proof that organized Hellenism, rooted in faith, heritage, and civic responsibility, endures.
As the evening concluded, President Kotrotsios offered a message that resonated deeply with those gathered: “May the next century of AHEPA Chapter 26 be even greater than the first.”
With fellowship shared and music provided by Atlantis, the Chapter closed its first century not simply with pride, but with resolve.
In Philadelphia, where democracy took root, AHEPA Chapter 26 reaffirmed its place in that legacy, one hundred years strong, and the next century begins.
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