Copyright thenationalherald
DES PLAINES, IL – The Illinois-based United Hellenic Voters of America (UHVA) hosted its annual Awards Gala October 19 at the Fountain Blue Banquets in Des Plaines, bringing together civic leaders, business executives, and community members for a night of recognition and celebration. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of UHVA’s 2025 Person of the Year Award to Majority Leader of the Illinois House of Representatives, Robyn Gabel, who was honored for her exemplary public service, leadership, and commitment to the people of Illinois. “The United Hellenic Voters of America is honored to recognize these extraordinary individuals whose achievements reflect the values, resilience, and contributions of the Greek-American community,” said UHVA National Chairman Kiki Whitehead, adding, “Their leadership and service inspire future generations and strengthen the ties between heritage and progress.” In addition to Gabel’s recognition, UHVA presented Distinguished Greek-American Awards to four individuals for their contributions across diverse fields: Tassos Chronopoulos, President & CEO of Tassos Group LLC – for his visionary leadership in international business and commitment to sustainable entrepreneurship. “I don’t believe I have done anything more than a lot of you here. I recall he days when you used to walk on Michigan Avenue and people they would ask what you were doing, and you told them you were an engineer, they would not believe you because they knew only the Greek restaurants. Since the 1960s, today the Greek community has changed a lot. Education was the secret of our success as a community,” Chronopoulos said. “I am what I am because of my family, because of my children and grandchildren and because of my friends here who stand with honesty and help each other,” he said. Susanna Wickham, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America – for her tireless dedication to youth empowerment and national community development. Dr. Dino Samartzis, Professor of Orthopedics at Rush University Medical Center – for his groundbreaking work in spine research and global medical education. Yanni Dimoulis, Influencer and President of yannidimoulis.com – for his dynamic presence in the digital media space and innovative community-building initiatives. “Everyone being honored here tonight and everyone in this room desiring to make an impact is moving the needle. Together, we can make changes that matter. I believe that our cultural identity and history have a lot to do with that inherent drive to greatness,” Dimoulis said. The event brought together leaders from across the nation to honor achievement and strengthen the bonds of Hellenic heritage. Guests enjoyed an evening of dinner, entertainment, and heartfelt tributes to the honorees’ accomplishments and service. “In 1974, our founding father, Dr. Dimitrios Kyriazopoulos embarked on a mission to unite Greek Americans and create a platform to represent within our government. His vision was simple, yet powerful,” Whitehead said. Founded as a non-partisan organization, the UHVA has served as a driving force in empowering the Greek-American vote and strengthening the community’s voice in local and national affairs.
