WASHINGTON, DC —  The Order of AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association) hosted the 2026 AHEPA National Banquet at the historic Mayflower Hotel on Wednesday, May 13. 

Mike Emanuel, Chief Washington Correspondent for FOX News served as the MC for the evening which, in addition to the the honorees, was honored to host Greek Ambassador to the U.S. Antonis Alexandridis, Cypriot Ambassador to the U.S. Evangelos Savva, Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Ryan Mackenzie, Thomas Suozzi as well as Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.

The evening’s honors were as follows:

• Congresswoman Dina Titus introduced and presented Congresswoman Grace Meng with the 2026 AHEPA Pericles Award.
• Colonel Nicholas P. Vamvakias (ret.) received the inaugural Dilboy Veterans Committee Award, speaking to the importance of Veterans in the AHEPA family before local members of the Sons of Pericles and Maids of Athena assisted in awarding over 30 veterans in attendance with the AHEPA Medal for Military Service.
• Dan Mariaschin, retiring CEO of B’nai B’rith International, received the 2026 Academy of Achievement award in Civics and Philanthropy.
• Paulette Poulos, retiring Executive Director of Leadership 100 received the 2026 Daughters of Penelope Spirit Award.

AHEPA has actively promoted good citizenship and community service initiatives since its establishment in 1922, both within the United States and internationally. Furthermore, the organization has honored those who dedicate themselves to public service since 1927.

An official photo album will be made available in the coming days courtesy of the Cosmos Philly.

AHEPA extends a sincere thank you to everyone who attended this year’s signature event, making it the truly special occasion it continues to be.