Despina Anastasiou is a native New Yorker currently based in Geneva, Switzerland. She is a graduate of Colgate University, where she majored in International Relations with double minors in History and Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies. She is now pursuing a Master’s degree in International and Development Studies at the Geneva Graduate Institute, specializing in mobilities, migration, and borders. Despina recently completed an internship with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in the Division of International Protection in Geneva. Her previous experience includes internships with the Hellenic Republic Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Hellenic Republic Ministry of Migration and Asylum, where she worked on projects related to international cooperation and refugee policy. With a deep interest in global migration, diaspora communities, and transnational governance, Despina hopes to contribute to more just and human-centered policy responses within the field of international affairs.

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Stella was born in Karpenisi and raised in Aigio, Greece. She currently lives in London, UK with her husband Alexandros. She holds an MA in Education from the UCL Institute of Education and has a strong interest in implementing new technologies in education, with a focus on supporting and promoting the Greek language worldwide. Stella is the Founder and CEO of The Greek Online School (TGOS), a global educational organization that teaches Greek to children and adults around the world. She has built the school organically from the ground up, growing a team of over 70 professionals, including teachers and dedicated staff who support the school both on the educational front and behind the scenes.Her work reflects a deep commitment to Hellenism, educational innovation, and community building.

An innovative, Los Angeles-based producer and screenwriter, Bozonelis has helped successfully build film & television slates and analyze projects for industry titans such as: Netflix, George Clooney's Smokehouse Pictures, Ridley Scott's Scott Free Productions, HBO and many others, and is currently running creative for a major Hollywood studio, soon to be announced. Bozonelis has also written, sold and produced a number of original feature and television projects including thriller SAFER AT HOME on Hulu and the subversive female sketch comedy streaming series SORRY NOT SORRY, where she served as Head Writer & Consulting Producer. Prior to this, Lia worked as a staff writer for FORTUNE magazine, covering hard news across the globe, and as a speechwriter for the Managing Editor. Originally from New Jersey and a graduate of George Washington University, Bozonelis is VP of the Board of the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival and is Co-Founder of the Global Greek Film Initiative, an effort to create production jobs and boost the economy of Greece. She enjoys composing & playing music, yoga, cooking, hiking, travel, art and is a former company dancer. She has a profound love for Greece, being Greek, her amazing and inspiring Greek family and can't wait to shoot her upcoming film in the motherland.

Eunice Buhler is a founding member of the THI New Leaders. She has been involved with THI for nearly a decade and is deeply committed to our Hellenic community. Professionally, she serves as General Counsel for G2, the world’s largest and most trusted software review platform. Eunice began her career at the law firm of Kirkland & Ellis in the M&A and private equity practice. Eunice earned her J.D. with honors at the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law and her M.A. and B.A. with honors from Stanford University. She is a proud Chicagoan.

Gregory is a seasoned financial services professional with expertise in Asset Management and Commercial Real Estate. He has held lending and portfolio management positions at small, mid and large-cap banks, personally overseeing asset portfolios exceeding $1 billion in value. He currently specializes in developing high-performing investment strategies as President & Chief Investment Officer of Hephaestus Fund Investment Management- a firm he founded. Gregory is also an active angel investor. He is based in New York City and holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Political Science from Bucknell University, as well as an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business.

Konstantina Choros has a Master's Degree In European Politics and Policy from NYU. Her Bachelors of Arts is in Classical Studies from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has worked as a researcher in national and international economics. Her real passion is being in business for herself. She has owned a bakery and currently works as a Real Estate Broker. She has traveled extensively, even summiting Kilimanjaro. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering for causes close to her heart and is excited about working with THI.

Ermina grew up in Thessaloniki, Greece and moved to Massachusetts to earn her Bachelors of Science in Mechanical and Civil Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. She currently works at Jensen Hughes as a Fire Protection Engineering Consultant in NYC. In her spare time Ermina loves to be active through activities such as running, pilates, and skiing. She also has a passion for cooking and traveling and tries to visit her hometown in Greece at least once a year. She looks forward to being part of the New Leaders Executive Committee and actively contributing to the THI mission.

I am currently based in Thessaloniki and hold a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. I recently completed a Master’s degree in Special Education through a joint program of the Hellenic Open University and the University of Thessaly. As part of my postgraduate studies, I completed an internship in the integration department of a public kindergarten, where I worked closely with children with diverse learning needs. My professional development also includes ongoing training in positive psychology and team-building, which have shaped my approach to inclusive and collaborative learning. In addition to my work in education, I serve as editor-in-chief of Theatromania, an online platform dedicated to theatre and cultural engagement.

Georgios Doulaveris was born and raised in Athens, Greece, and currently lives in New York. He earned his medical degree from the University of Athens Medical School before completing his residency and fellowship training in the United States. Georgios is an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and serves as the Program Director for the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center. He specializes in fetal medicine and fetal surgery and is passionate about medical education and mentorship. He is an active member of the Hellenic Medical Society of New York and is committed to fostering connections between the Greek diaspora and professionals in Greece.

Marissa Eliades went to the University of Michigan for her undergraduate degree, and the University of Miami for law school. She is Senior Director - Privacy & Compliance Counsel at Parfums Christian Dior focusing on US and Canadian compliance and privacy matters. She also has experience at CBRE, specializing in employee and business to business data privacy. Prior to CBRE, Marissa worked at American Express, where she focused on US consumer privacy.

Marissa lives in Manhattan and was born and raised in Roslyn, New York. Marissa 's family is originally from Chios and Karpenisi.

In her free time Marissa enjoys staying active, cooking, reading, traveling the world, and helping others, as she has recently founded a non-profit organization called "Like A Daisy", created to support individuals with disabilities through organized social events, advocacy initiatives, and reconnecting them to their faith.

Niko currently works within Blackstone's Tactical Opportunities group. He is a finance professional with expertise as an operator of pre-IPO companies and a proven track record of preparing companies to execute an IPO. Niko's Greek roots are from both Chios and Andros where he has also spent time working. Niko lives in New York City, is passionate about working with start-ups, and is a CFA charter holder. He has a Bachelors degree in Finance and Accounting from Villanova University.

Dimitri, a native of Greece, was raised in the northern Athens suburb of Kifissia until the age of 18. He pursued higher education in England, earning a B.S. in Economics (First Class) from the University of Sussex and an M.S. in Finance & Economics from the University of Warwick. After completing his studies, Dimitri relocated to the United States to build a career in finance.

Currently, Dimitri serves as a Private Equity Associate at Sheridan Capital Partners, a role he began in 2024. Previously, he was an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird in the Consumer & Retail Group, where he supported mergers and acquisitions, equity and debt offerings, and financial advisory services. Before Baird, Dimitri worked as an Analyst at Prairie Capital Advisors in Chicago, specializing in ESOP advisory, corporate valuation, fairness opinions, and capital structuring.

Outside of work, he is an avid reader, music enthusiast, and car aficionado. Dimitri is also actively involved with Chicago-based nonprofits Guest House and the Chicago Community Trust, where he supports community development initiatives.

Nicole is born and raised in New Jersey with Greek roots in the mountains of Evrytania. A Rutgers graduate, Nicole is a former financial journalist turned corporate investigator.

She has broad experience managing cases and building teams to service the risk advisory needs and investigative objectives of laws firms, C-suite executives, board members and high net worth individuals.

Before co-establishing Jetty Partners, Nicoletta was a managing director at two leading global consulting firms where she specialized in managing litigation support cases and internal investigations.

Nicole is a proud dance and baseball Mom and Girl Scout leader.

Xrisa Koulouris was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She is an administrator and educator at Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, IL, ranked one of the top high schools in the nation. With a Bachelor’s in English and Secondary Education, a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration, and a Master’s in Reading as a certified Reading Specialist, Xrisa brings both depth and vision to her work. In her current role, she guides curriculum development, mentors faculty, and fosters a culture of academic excellence. With over twelve years of teaching experience and being in various leadership roles, Xrisa has developed a collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership. “I’ve learned to adapt by being an active listener, valuing all perspectives, and recognizing that the most effective leadership happens in innovative and relationship-centered environments. To reach high levels of engagement and performance, it's essential to empower all stakeholders and work collectively.” In addition to her work at Stevenson, Xrisa is actively involved in literacy-focused initiatives and educational organizations. She currently serves as the Co-Director of Education for the Pan-Laconian Federation of the U.S.A. and Canada. Xrisa is excited to play a key role in shaping and implementing meaningful programs, organizing engaging events, and helping to grow a strong and connected New Leader community through THI. She is passionate about preserving Greek heritage while creating spaces to uplift and empower the next generation of Greek professionals. With a mindset grounded in reflection, service, and lifelong learning, Xrisa is committed to taking this already thriving community to the next level.

I was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, with Greek roots in Messinia, Pelion, and Naoussa. I earned my BS in Business and Marketing from UMass Lowell. My career began in digital marketing before evolving into roles focused on workplace culture, engagement, events, and experience at a major tech company and later a unicorn startup.In my current role I manage the experience for a historic Class A building in Boston, supporting global banks, consulting firms, and tech startups. I live in Boston with my husband, our son, and our two dogs. In my free time I enjoy practicing yoga, exploring the local food scene, and spending time outdoors with my family.

I grew up in Aridaia, Pella, and currently live in Athens, where I work in international trade and pursue a Master’s in International Relations and Strategic Studies at Panteion University. In addition to THI, I’m actively involved in the Greek and Cypriot community through my participation in AHEPA Piraeus, where I take part in initiatives that promote Hellenism, education, and civic engagement. I’m also a member of the Association of Friends of the Jewish Museum of Greece, supporting the preservation of multicultural identity and historical awareness. My academic background, professional experience, and cultural interests allow me to contribute meaningfully to a vibrant and forward-looking Hellenic community.

Zachary Lountzis is a Vice President at Lountzis Asset Management, LLC, a registered investment adviser that operates as a multi-family office serving families, business-owners, and high-net worth individuals with fully customized portfolios. He previously spent nine years on Wall Street as an investment banker and equity research analyst at Barclays, Credit Suisse, and Jefferies. Zachary is a proud member of the National Hellenic Society, where he was privileged to be selected to the organization’s inaugural Heritage Greece Program in 2010. He serves as a PAL Champions Board Member for the Police Athletic League, which together with the NYPD has supported and inspired underprivileged NYC youths to realize their full individual potential as productive members of society since 1914. He also serves as a New Leader for The Hellenic Initiative and is a member of the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC) and a brother of AHEPA’s NYC chapter.

Alexander Marcopoulos is a partner of international law firm Hughes Hubbard & Reed and a member of the firm’s Litigation and International Arbitration practices. He represents companies and states in high-stakes international projects and disputes -- in particular, in the construction, energy and maritime sectors. In addition to his work as counsel, Alexander takes appointments as arbitrator. He also teaches international arbitration at Panthéon-Assas University (Paris II) and Sciences Po Paris.

Throughout his academic and professional endeavors, Alexander has always been guided by a deep passion for his Greek heritage and the culture and traditions instilled in him by his family. Having grown up in Peekskill, New York, Alexander spent most summers with his family in Messinia, Greece. While he now lives in Paris, France, Alexander has always been drawn to Messinia: he and his wife were married there in 2017, and they continue to visit as often as possible. In his free time, Alexander enjoys running, cycling and spending time with his wife and two daughters.

Demetri Nikolias is a Client Strategist for Absolute Strategy Research, working with Financial Institutions, Family Offices, Governments, Central Banks and Foundations in EMEA & MENAT, advising them on matters relating to Geopolitics, Macro Strategy & Asset allocation. Previously, he has worked in sales trading and client facing advisory roles at JP Morgan, Macquarie Bank and Commonwealth Securities, across London and Sydney. Demetri is an active member of the Greek community in the UK and Australia, supporting many causes relating to the mentorship and entrepreneurship, Orthodox faith, language and cultural heritage. He has completed a Bachelor of Business (Honours) degree at the University of Technology, Sydney and a Masters in Banking and Finance at King’s College London.

Sandy Papadimitriou was born and raised in Athens, Greece and currently lives in NYC. Sandy is a Deployment Strategist at Palantir Technologies on the Commercial team. She is a product implementation specialist deploying AI-focused software solving bespoke problems that customers face. Prior to Palantir, Sandy worked at Citi for 5 years as an Assistant Vice President in the Equities Trading desk. Sandy graduated from University of California Berkeley with a double major in Computer Science and Economics.

George grew up in Glenview, a suburb north of Chicago, and is the oldest of three siblings. He attended the University of Virginia and studied Economics, Real Estate and Spanish. Today, George lives in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago with his beautiful wife, Maria-Elena and works at Blue Vista Capital Management, a real estate private equity company where he serves as Vice President of Acquisitions. George's family has roots in Methoni, the Tripoli area, and Kalymnos. George finds his happiness in family, friends and food; he also enjoys traveling, cooking, the outdoors, sports (paddle tennis and golf are current favorites), and wellness.

Fotis Stravoravdis was born and raised on the island of Corfu, Greece, and later moved to Athens to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in International and European Studies at the University of Piraeus, graduating first in his class. He was awarded a full scholarship to attend the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, DC, where he earned a Master’s degree in International Relations and Economics. Since 2018, he has held progressively senior roles at the World Bank Group, supporting a wide range of global portfolios with a focus on strategy design and multi-stakeholder collaboration. His areas of work have included agribusiness, finance, climate and sustainability, risk management, and donor engagement—often in complex and high-impact environments. He has been living in New York City since 2024.

Theodora Tavridou is a Counsel in the Private Equity group at Weil, Gotshal & Manges in New York City, where she has lived for the past nine years. She advises private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies on various transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures. Originally from Thessaloniki, Greece, she earned her law degree from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and holds an LL.M. from Northwestern University in Chicago. She visits Greece regularly to stay close to her family and is passionate about exploring ways to give back to her home country.

Chris Tsiolis is a communications and campaign strategist, driving revenue and growth for high-profile financial media brands and personalities. A native of Chicago's Greek community, he is personally and professionally dedicated to building economic and political bridges between Greece and the Diaspora, promoting projects & collaborations for the global advancement of Greeks economically, politically, and culturally. A graduate of DePaul University with degrees in Philosophy and Economics, Chris enjoys playing analytical games in his spare time, is a former poker champion, and is an avid world traveler and golfer.

Konstantinos Tzanetakos is an Associate in Citigroup’s Leveraged Finance Underwriting team in London, advising on high-profile credit transactions across Europe. Prior to Citi, he worked at Kroll, focusing on private equity and credit valuation. A proud Greek, Konstantinos is committed to supporting Greece’s economic future through diaspora-led initiatives. He holds an MSc in Finance from Warwick Business School and a BSc from the University of Piraeus. He is also a former European finswimming champion and an active volunteer in youth sports and mentorship.

Dr. Denny Vildiridis, a Greek national fluent in English, Greek, and German, has a distinguished career in education, museology, and cultural development/strategy. She holds a PhD in Education and Museology from the University of Oxford, an M.Res in European Culture from UCL, and a BA in Modern History from Royal Holloway University London. She is also an accredited G.I.A gemmologist and jewellery designer. Her work experience spans across various cultural institutions in Greece, including the National Theater of Northern Greece where she served as the Head of Strategy and International Development, and the Museum of Children and Toys where she holds multiple roles including Board VP and Development VP. She spearheaded the construction and operational phases of the museum, which houses Europe's largest and most significant collection of toys (the Marianna Vildiridis Collection), and was instrumental in securing substantial funding for the project.

Additionally, Dr. Vildiridis has a background in the luxury industry, having worked at Sotheby’s and Bvlgari, and runs her own jewellery business in Greece. She has also been involved in various boards and committees, such as the National Orchestra of Athens, When We Band Together, and the Thessaloniki Organising Committee for Women Act, further demonstrating her commitment to cultural and societal development. Her broad experience in strategic planning, international development, and fundraising, combined with her academic expertise and passion for cultural heritage, make The Hellenic Initiative a natural fit and passion for her.

Marianthi Vlachos is a second generation Greek American born and raised in the Tampa Bay Area of Florida, with Greek roots from Kefalonia and Rhodes. Marianthi received a bachelor’s degree in Art History from Louisiana State University and currently resides in New York City. In 2017, Marianthi founded Hellenic Aesthetic, America’s first Greek fashion retailer. Hellenic Aesthetic has created a platform for many Greek brands to have a presence in the USA (and beyond) while promoting Greek craftsmanship, travel and culture. In 2021 she took this mission a step further in opening Hellenic Aesthetic’s flagship boutique in Astoria, NYC.

Aristotle lives in NYC but is originally from Athens, Greece. Growing up, he lived in five different countries, but maintained close ties to Greece and his heritage. He graduated with a BA and MIA from Columbia University, and currently works in product at a legal-tech startup. Only somewhat owing to his name, he has always been interested in philosophy, history, and politics. When not in NYC, you're likely to find him enjoying good food and a good book on a beach in Greece.

Lia Wrenn is based out of Chicago, IL and thrilled to be part of the THI executive committee! Most recently, she helped organize the launch of THI Chicago. She currently works as an assistant professor at Rush Medical College and practices as an Obstetrician Gynecologist at Rush University Medical Center. She is passionate about women’s health and providing access to healthcare for underserved populations. Greece has played a pivotal role in shaping her as a person, as she looks forward to being able to give back to the country through THI. Outside of work, she is a mom and loves to travel with her family, especially to Greece.