The Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, located in Falls Church, honored Nick Larigakis, president of the American Hellenic Institute with the Community Service Award at its annual dinner gala on Sunday, Nov. 8.
Father Konstantinos A. Pavlakos and Jim Stoucker, Parish Council president, presented Larigakis, who currently serves as vice president of the Parish Council, with the award.
“In thought, deed and action, Nick has devoted his life to the advancement of orthodoxy, Hellenism and the defense of freedom and democracy…as well as an articulate advocacy of the rule of law as it pertains to Greece and Cyprus,” Stoucker said in a press release about the award. “We are proud to honor his service to the community as a champion of orthodoxy, our heritage and the diaspora.”
In acceptance of the award, Larigakis paid homage to his parents whom he credited for instilling the importance of education, hard work and good citizenship in his life. He also acknowledged their sacrifices as well as the sacrifices of his brother, Constantine, a caregiver to his parents; and his daughter, Panayiota, over the years. “Without the support and sacrifices of others, I could not be where I am today,” Larigakis said.
