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Greek Language And Culture at 2013 Hermes Expo

Participants in Symposium
Participants in the Symposium

Important topics concerning the growth of Modern Greek language programs were debated at the Prometheus Greek Teachers Association and Federation of Hellenic-American Educators workshop on Saturday, April 13th, at the 2013 Hermes International Expo at Trump Taj Mahal Hotel and Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The decline in the enrollment of students in Greek schools in North America’s Hellenic communities was discussed. Ways to overcome this problem were presented in the workshop. It was suggested that an establishment of Hellenic Studies programs within North American universities should be established to prepare future instructors of the Greek language and culture.

Stella Kokolis, workshop moderator and President of the Federation of Hellenic American Teachers and the World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) Education Committee for the US region, said “There is a need for an improved cooperative effort among educators. Social networking, the use of computerized education materials and the creation of electronic learning centers will enhance the learning of Modern Greek language and culture. We must be united to solidify Greek education.”

“We are honored to participate in the 2013 Hermes Expo International,” said Dr. Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus. “We believe in the strengthening, development and implementation of preschool programs where Greek language and culture is taught through play, song, reading and writing. St. Irene Chrysovalantou School has an effective Greek program highly rated in Astoria, New York. Greek educators and supporters of Greek language and culture are being honored at the 22nd Anniversary Hermes Expo Dinner Awards gala.”

The Prometheus Greek Teachers Association and Federation of Hellenic-American Educator Workshop and delegation included parents, community leaders and activists. They are the following persons: Eleni  Karageorgiou, Education Counselor of the Greek Consulate, New York; Stella Kokolis, President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators; Educator Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus; Dr. John and Emily Antonopoulos; Dr. Aristotle Michopoulos. Director of Greek Studies, Hellenic College; Dr. George Melikokis; Timoleon Kokkinos; Yannis Markopoulos; Dr. James G. Faller; Dr. Dean Lomis; Dr. Marianthi Molfetas; Dr. Despina Siolas; Demi Savopoulos, President of HAEA;  Dimitri and Stavros Papaloizos; Lefteris Karmiris, President and Anna Papageorgiou of Prometheus, Washington, D.C.; Helen Pylarinos Fotiou; George Fotiou; Marianthi Raptis; Despina Stavrou; Paul Sapounakis; Manos Lambidis; Anastasia Korfiatis; Grigoris Stamoulis; Katerina Klein; Eleni Koumas; Maria Carvelas; Vicki Palma; Pandora Spelios; Vasiliki Stasinopoulos; Mrs. Mancini; Maria Paloumbis; Tony Alexis, Angie Yanas: parents and students.

Paul Kotrotsios, founder and president of Hermes Expo International, said “Congratulations to the Federation of Hellenic Teachers in the USA for honoring a group of educators and outstanding Greek School graduates at the 22nd Hermes Expo. They have distinguished themselves in their profession. Their devotion to the Hellenic principles and ideals is exceptional. They are passing the torch of Hellenism to our next generation. We express our appreciation to the rare work of Mrs. Stella Kokolis and her Board and President Vasiliki Filiotis and the Board of Prometheus.”

The 2013 honorees include: Despina Siolas, M.D./Ph.D. (http://www.hellenicnews.com/index.php/omogenia-a-national-issues/item/529-featured-young-professional-of-the-month-dr-despina-siolas); Despina Galatoulas, educator at St. Demetrios Greek-American parochial school, Astoria; Maria Stasinopoulos, medical student; Helen Pylarinos Fotiou, educator at St. Demetrios Greek-American parochial school, Astoria; Maria Paloumbis, educator at Holy Cross and Plato Academy, Brooklyn; Dr. John G. Siolas, Associate Professor of Education, Graduate Division, School of Education and Psychology at Touro College (http://www.qgazette.com/news/2013-04-24/Front_Page/Dr_John_G_Siolas_Honored_At_Hermes_International_E.html); Dr. Amalia Spireas, pediatrician; Andreas Koutsoudakis, esq. and educator Eleni Koumas.”

Honoree Helen Pylarinos Fotiou is the founder of the Alumni Organization of the Graduate Teachers of St. Basil’s Academy and Hellenic College. Her education career began in 1973. Her greatest joy is to meet former students. Her son, Konstantinos C. Fotiou, who can be reached at fotiouk@yahoo.com, creates medical websites.

Eleni Koumas, 2013 Hermes International Expo Honoree, has been teaching since 1978 in the New York City public school system. Her exceptional education career was recognized by the Greek government in 1992, New York City Public School System and numerous education organizations. She was Assistant Principal Interim acting in 2000 at P.S. 111 Queens. Educator Koumas is seriously considering publishing a children’s book on Greek Independence entitled “To Kryfo Skolio” (The Secret School).

Vasiliki Filiotis expressed, “Special appreciation and thanks to former Prometheus President John Markopoulos, Pan Gregorian leaders Peter Tsagarakis President of Upper New York, George Siamboulis, Tony Mpletakis and Anastasios Manessis for their continuous support of Modern Greek Studies; members of Prometheus Greek Teachers Association and Federation of Hellenic-American Educators, Mr. Paul Kotrotsios, Hermes International Expo staff, educators, parents and youth who participated in seminar and dinner. Every year we look forward to  attending and honoring educators and students. We congratulate the honorees of the 22nd Hermes International Expo. Mrs. Stella Kokolis, President of the Federation of Hellenic American Teachers, is commended for her unique effort, as well as, all participants at Hermes International Expo 2013.”

 

Educator Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus, Stella Kokolis, President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators, Timoleon Kokkinos, Dr. Aristotle Michopoulos. Director of Greek Studies, Hellenic College, former Prometheus President John Markopoulos, at gala.
Educator Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus, Stella Kokolis, President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators, Timoleon Kokkinos, Dr. Aristotle Michopoulos. Director of Greek Studies, Hellenic College, former Prometheus President John Markopoulos,
2013 Honorees Dr. John G. Siolas, Helen Pylarinos Fotiou (left to right) and Eleni Koumas.
2013 Honorees Dr. John G. Siolas, Helen Pylarinos Fotiou (left to right) and Eleni Koumas.

Mrs. Emily Antonopouls (center) with Mr. Paul Kotrotsios (left) and Dr. Spiro Spireas.

 

 

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