The 34th Annual Hermes Expo Awards Ceremony, held at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, New Jersey, was a vibrant celebration of Hellenism, community, and achievement. 🇺🇸🇬🇷 Over 300 guests, including business leaders, educators, and cultural advocates, gathered to honor individuals embodying excellence and cultural pride. The evening began with stirring renditions of the Greek and American national anthems 🎶 by a choir from St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, setting a tone of unity in the elegant ballroom.

Origins of the Hermes Expo 🌍

Founded in 1992 by Paul Kotrotsios, the Hermes Expo was created to foster economic and cultural ties within the Greek-American community and with Greece. Named after Hermes, the Greek god of trade and communication, it began as a trade show in Philadelphia to connect Greek-American businesses with Greek suppliers. Kotrotsios, who immigrated from Tripolis, Greece, in the 1970s, envisioned a platform to preserve Hellenic identity while promoting opportunity. “It was not just about trade,” he said, “but building a movement rooted in resilience and responsibility to uplift one another.” 🙌

Over 34 years, the Expo has grown into a cornerstone of the Greek-American diaspora, hosting thousands of participants and facilitating partnerships that have generated significant economic activity. From food importers to tourism ventures, it has strengthened U.S.-Greece ties. The 2025 ceremony, held in a ballroom adorned with blue and white Greek flag colors, highlighted this legacy. Representatives from AHEPA, HANC, and Greek Orthodox parishes attended, underscoring the Expo’s unifying role.

Gratitude and Recognition 🙏

Hosted by James Bollos, a charismatic Greek-American broadcaster, the ceremony blended tributes with celebration. Iphigenia Canara, Consul General of Greece in New York, praised the Expo as a “bridge” for ideas and partnerships. 🌉 “Consistency is key, and Mr. Kotrotsios has proven that over 34 years,” she said. She highlighted its role in promoting Greek language, music, and traditions, especially among youth. A performance by the Hellenic Youth Dance Group, featuring dances like the kalamatianos, reinforced this cultural mission. 💃🕺

Honoring Excellence and Filotimo 🌟

The awards recognized filotimo—honor, duty, and selflessness. 💙 Honorees, selected by the Expo committee, were showcased in video montages edited by Grammaticus Macedon. They included:

• Charles Capetanakis (PIVIA Award) for leading Hellenic Classical Charter Schools, promoting Greek education. 🏫 “Our children are our future,” he said, joined by mentor Stella Kokolis.

• Dimitry Jiemias and Michael Papafotis (AHEPA Awards) for leadership in AHEPA, supporting scholarships and community programs. 🏅 “AHEPA is a family,” Jiemias noted.

• Luke Loukopoulos (Filotimo Award) for revitalizing St. Dimitrios and Koimisis tis Theotokou parishes. ⛪ “Filotimo is doing what’s right,” he said.

• Dr. George Tsoulias (Hippocratic Award) for medical and cultural contributions via the Hellenic Medical Society. 🩺

• Alec Economakis (Centennial Leadership Award, accepted by George Horiates Jr.) for engaging youth in the Sons of Pericles. 🧑‍🎓

Ambassador George Tsounis was honored for his work in Hellenism and environmental initiatives. 🌳

Collaboration and Impact 🤝

A 2025 memorandum with Helexpo Thessaloniki will expand trade, with the 13th Trade Mission to Greece set for September 6-18, 2025. 📜 Kotrotsios thanked sponsors like Grecian Delight and his daughter Aphrodite, saying, “This is a family event, including all of us.” 🙌 The Expo has connected businesses, from olive oil importers to tech startups, boosting economic ties.

Cultural Significance 🇬🇷

With over 1.2 million Greek-Americans, the community has shaped American society. The Expo preserves this legacy through workshops on Greek history and cultural exhibits. Filotimo—“the glue of our community”—was a recurring theme, inspiring attendees to uphold traditions.

A Call to the Future 🚀

Kotrotsios urged, “Keep opening doors for future generations.” 🌱 The reception featured Greek delicacies and circle dances, embodying community spirit. 💃🕺 The next event is set for November 7, 2026. Join us to celebrate our legacy! 🇬🇷🎉

Video and editing by Grammaticus Macedon.