The 34th Annual Leadership 100 Conference officially opened on February 20, 2025, at the Ritz Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, drawing influential members of the Greek Orthodox community from across the United States. The multi-day event, organized by the Archbishop Iakovos Leadership 100 Fund, focused on strengthening leadership rooted in faith and fostering philanthropic initiatives that uplift communities and sustain vital institutions.
With a program rich in keynote addresses, panel discussions, and spiritual reflection, the conference emphasized the enduring importance of service, charitable giving, and the spiritual values that guide both individual and communal action.
Celebrating Leadership and Service
A signature feature of the conference was the participation of renowned speakers who have distinguished themselves in both their professional fields and philanthropic work. Among them was Nick Katsoris, founder of the Loukoumi Make a Difference Foundation, who delivered a powerful address on the impact of service-oriented leadership and the importance of involving young people in charitable initiatives.
“Leadership is about creating opportunities for others to thrive,” Katsoris told attendees. “Our youth need examples that show them how service can be a joyful and lifelong commitment.”
ABC News Correspondent Alexis Christoforous also offered insights during a keynote session, drawing on her experience in journalism to explore how storytelling and communication can drive social change and community engagement.
Empowering the Next Generation
A highlight of the conference was a closed-door session led by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, who engaged in a candid dialogue with young professionals and emerging leaders within the Greek Orthodox Church. The discussion centered on strategies to empower youth through mentorship, education, and expanded roles in both parish and philanthropic activities.
“We must invest in the next generation with trust, responsibility, and a vision that includes them at every table,” Archbishop Elpidophoros emphasized. His remarks resonated with younger attendees, many of whom expressed enthusiasm for more active roles in the church and its charitable missions.
Philanthropy and Community Development
In keeping with its founding mission, the Leadership 100 Conference reinforced its commitment to advancing philanthropy in service of education, healthcare, and faith-based outreach. Discussions throughout the event addressed how to strengthen institutions like Hellenic College Holy Cross, support scholarship programs, and fund social service initiatives aimed at helping vulnerable populations.
Leadership 100, established in 1984, has awarded over $70 million in grants supporting religious, cultural, and humanitarian projects. The annual conference serves not only as a gathering of thought leaders but also as a strategic planning hub for expanding the impact of its philanthropic network.
Attendees participated in breakout sessions focused on nonprofit leadership, donor engagement strategies, and leveraging technology to enhance community service. The event also featured spiritual sessions, liturgical services, and opportunities for networking that nurtured both professional and spiritual connections.
A Platform for Vision and Unity
The return of the Leadership 100 Conference to Orlando underscored the organization’s commitment to convening diverse voices within the Greek Orthodox diaspora to share ideas, celebrate successes, and chart a unified path forward. Many attendees praised the event for its blend of inspiration, faith, and practical tools for effecting positive change.
“The beauty of Leadership 100 is that it brings together people who are not only successful in their fields but deeply committed to making a difference through faith and generosity,” said a long-time member of the fund.
As the conference concluded, participants left with renewed dedication to the twin pillars of leadership and philanthropy—anchored in the values of the Greek Orthodox tradition. Looking ahead, the lessons and connections forged at this year’s gathering are expected to ripple outward through parishes, nonprofits, and community organizations across the country.
