Mr. George Logothetis, Executive Chairman of Libra Group, generously hosted more than 60 ACG New York City-area alumni and Libra Group staff and interns for a special evening of conversation and inspiration at his New York City home on April 16.
ACG President David G. Horner delivered a warm welcome and introduction to ACG’s unique role in Greece’s educational ecosystem. Dr. Horner described ACG’s extraordinary growth and impact since its relocation to Greece following the Smyrna Catastrophe in 1923.
Mr. Logothetis inspired the gathering with comments about his commitment to Greek values and American opportunity, and described the origins and impacts of the Libra Internship Program, initially established at ACG in 2011.
A “fireside chat” between Mr. Logothetis and surprise guest General Andrew P. Poppas, Commanding General, U.S. Army Forces Command, was the highlight of the evening. Mr. Logothetis introduced the four-star general as “the best combination of steel and empathy.” Through a frank conversation, the two sons of Greek immigrants explored themes of strong leadership, the importance of knowing history to chart the future, and how their Greek family ties and values have been integral to their success.
“My Greek roots and the values I learned from my father have inspired me every step of the way,” said General Poppas. “He taught me commitment to the nation, community and family; to honor the opportunities this country affords everyone; and that your integrity is everything.”
Mr. Logothetis described how his grandmother persevered through some of Greece’s darkest challenges, and passed on the value of pánta brostá, “always forward.”
“That’s America. Our people have been running for years. Then America comes and there is no more running,” said Mr. Logothetis. “Our duty is to take those American opportunities and preserve the Greek values.”
Many thanks to Eleni Blouchou, Deree ‘93, Bonello Athens Marketing & Communications and Ktima Zafeirakis for providing excellent Greek wines for tasting and serving, and to Rachel Palmer Stones, DNS Wines, for introducing and hosting the wine tasting at the event.
More pictures from the event can be seen here.