Over 650 philhellenes (that is, lovers of Greek culture) joined civic and cultural leaders in gathering to celebrate the grand reopening of the National Hellenic Museum. Stunning chandeliers illuminated the ballroom as HRH Prince Nikolaos showcased his exhibition Resilience, a series of portraits that explore Greece’s relationship with the natural world, for the first time in North America.
Prince Nikolaos was joined by Princess Tatiana, along with Consul General Emmanuel Koubarakis and His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago. NHM chairman John P. Calamos Sr. and gala chairman John S. Koudounis ensured a festive night was had by all.
Guests enjoyed a delectable dining experience catered by Hilton, followed by a live auction led by Keith Jones. Hundreds more guests arrived for the After Dark gala, featuring a performance by Thanos Petrelis. The elegant evening raised over $1 million for the museum’s mission to share Greek history, art, culture and the Greek American story.
Marianne Kountoures, Elena Kountoures, Princess Tatiana and Nadia Kountoures
From left: NHM Trustees Andrea Darlas, Jim Logothetis (seated), George Tsetsekos, NHM Gala Chairman John S. Koudounis and NHM Chairman John P. Calamos, Sr.; Princess Tatiana and Prince Nikolaos; NHM Trustees Dr. George Bovis, Peter Parthenis, Kenneth Kondraros and Yanni H. Sianis (seated); NHM advisor Louis Apostol; and NHM Trustee Bill J. Vranas
Prince Nikolaos
Terry Halikias, Michael Halikias, Frances Halikias and Aristotle Halikias
Thanos Petrelis performed.
John, Martha and Phillip Cannis hit the dance floor.
An inviting sign set the scene.
Photography by: PHOTOS BY GOLD GRID STUDIOS
