The National Hellenic Society added five new members to the Board of Directors at the annual Heritage Weekend & Classic, held October 10-13, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. Joining the board in 2024 are members Demetra Argeroplos of Ellicott City, Maryland; Dr. John Frankis of Manhasset, New York; Elias Manolis of Dracut, Massachusetts; Larry Rouvelas of Falls Church, Virginia; and Spiro Verras of Tampa, Florida.
Demetra Argeroplos
Demetra Argeroplos is the founder and Chief Operating Officer of AMA Systems, a global distribution company specializing in point redemption fulfillment and international trade. Under her leadership, AMA Systems has partnered with major corporations like American Express and VISA. Beyond business, Demetra is a dedicated philanthropist, supporting numerous local and national charities, including the Panhellenic Scholarship Foundation and Leadership 100. She currently serves as president of the Pan Theveon Society and actively aids underprivileged children and supports parishes worldwide, reflecting her deep commitment to community and cultural preservation.
Dr. John Frankis
Dr. John Frankis has been happily married to his wife, Maria, for over 25 years, and they have three adult children: Lia, Gina, and Stelio. His involvement with the National Hellenic Society began more than five years ago when his daughter Lia was selected to participate in the Heritage Greece program. The positive impact of the program on Lia and her enthusiastic response upon returning deeply impressed Dr. Frankis. Motivated by this experience, he, along with his family and a close group of friends, initiated an annual fundraiser in New York to support the program. Under his leadership, they have raised nearly $100,000 each year. Dr. Frankis emphasizes the importance of the Heritage Greece program, which is conducted by highly qualified educators in Greece and guided by exceptional leadership in the United States. He is proud to be part of an organization that plays a direct role in shaping the future of the next generation.
Elias Manolis
Elias Manolis is a versatile entrepreneur and philanthropist serving as Principal at Manolis Ventures, a real estate investment firm, and owner of Dracut House of Pizza and Seafood. As Vice President of the Manolis Family Foundation, he focuses on combating food insecurity among families in need. Deeply committed to his Greek heritage, Elias blends business acumen with dedication to community service and cultural preservation, contributing to sustainable development and effective charitable outreach.
Larry Rouvelas
Larry is the Chief Executive Officer of IntegraCare which runs senior housing communities in the Mid-Atlantic. He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife Rebecca and two children, Eleni and Emanuel. He has a BA from Yale College and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He has been a member of NHS for many years and, earlier in his life, hacked around at playing the bouzouki, poorly.
Spiro Verras
A native of Tarpon Springs, Florida, Spiro graduated from Yale University and Tulane Law School before becoming senior partner at a New Orleans-based multistate law firm. Spiro returned full-time to the Tampa Bay area in 2003, where he has become a frequent lecturer on estate planning and probate matters. He has served as an officer and director of local arts and charitable organizations and has volunteered his time, knowledge, and support to civil rights and advocacy groups working to build a more just and inclusive community.
Stepping down from the NHS Board of Directors are members Bettina Kallins, Jim Logothetis, Bill Marianes, Steve Padis & Manny Rouvelas. We thank them for their invaluable service and dedication to the National Hellenic Society during their terms.
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