WASHINGTON, DC —The Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church community of Falls Church, Va., honored American Hellenic Institute (AHI) President Nick Larigakis with its Community Service Award at its Annual Dinner Gala, Nov. 8, 2015.
Father Konstantinos A. Pavlakos and Jim Stoucker, Parish Council president, presented Larigakis, who currently serves as vice president of the Parish Council, with the award.
“In thought, deed and action, Nick has devoted his life to the advancement of Orthodoxy, Hellenism and the defense of freedom and democracy…as well as an articulate advocacy of the rule of law as it pertains to Greece and Cyprus. We are proud to honor his service to the community as a champion of Orthodoxy, our heritage and the Diaspora,” Stoucker said.
In acceptance, Larigakis paid homage to his parents whom he credited for instilling the importance of education, hard work, and good citizenship in his life. He also acknowledged their sacrifices as well as the sacrifices of his brother, Constantine, a caregiver to his parents; and his daughter, Panayiota, over the years.
“Without the support and sacrifices of others, I could not be where I am today,” Larigakis said.
Larigakis also expressed his gratitude to AHI Founder Eugene T. Rossides, who he credited for defining his career.
“I’m thankful to have the opportunity to work for something I’m very passionate about, the U.S.-Greece relationship,” he said. “I’ve always taken great care as a spokesman when representing AHI and promoting its mission because I am cognizant that I am also representing my parents and Gene Rossides and his legacy.”
His message also focused on the importance of everyone being involved and giving back to the community, including the community at large.
Finally, Larigakis congratulated the evening’s other honoree, Sophia Tsangali, who is a secretary and teach at the parish, and he thanked all the parishioners.
Approximately 220 person attended, including: former American Ambassador to Greece Tom Miller, Christine Brennan, journalist, USA Today; representatives from the Embassies of Greece and Cyprus, and several local parish priests.
