Celebrating Excellence at the 24th Annual Hellenic Professionals Gala

On February 22, 2025, over 300 members of the Greek professional community gathered in celebration at the 24th Annual Hellenic Professionals Gala. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Dr. Dimitrios Oreopoulos Memorial Scholarship, awarded to three outstanding Hellenic Canadian medical students whose work reflects the values of compassionate care, leadership, academic excellence, and community service.

The awards were presented by our President Dr. Vasilia Vasti, and our Vice President Dr. David Rossolatos. Both physicians are affiliated with McMaster University and are passionate advocates for uniting and supporting Hellenic physicians across Canada.

Dr. Rossolatos shared the Society’s vision of strengthening professional mobility between Canada and Greece, enhancing support for students, and expanding their newly rebranded network—formerly known as the "Hippocrates" Hellenic Canadian Medical Association of Ontario. A new national registry of Hellenic Canadian physicians and physician resources is currently in development on the Society’s forthcoming website to be released in late spring.

The Dr. Dimitrios Oreopoulos Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of the late nephrology pioneer and compassionate care advocate, is awarded annually to students who demonstrate academic distinction, research excellence, and a strong commitment to community impact.

This year’s recipients truly exemplify these principles:

Falia Pantieras

University of Ottawa, Class of 2028

Falia is a leader and community advocate. As a member of the Maids of Athena, she led a $25,000 fundraising campaign to purchase a ventilator for The Ottawa Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research on extracellular vesicles in human milk-based formulas has been featured in Nature Pediatric Research, and she continues to explore the intersection of cultural identity and medicine.

Aliki Karanikas

University of Ottawa, Class of 2027

Aliki is deeply committed to health equity. She has worked in family medicine clinics serving underserved populations and plans to pursue rural placements, including in Moose Factory, Ontario. A strong supporter of student wellness and community engagement, she is actively involved with the Ottawa Hellenic Young Adult Group and serves as a peer supporter for fellow medical students.

Gregory Anagnostopoulos

Western University Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Class of 2027

Gregory is making strides in healthcare advocacy. His work with Canadian Blood Services led to a Greek community stem cell swabbing clinic at St. Demetrios Orthodox Church, aiming to diversify the national stem cell registry. His advocacy efforts are currently under review for publication in The International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Health and Well-being.

Each of these recipients represents the future of Hellenic medicine in Canada—driven, compassionate, and committed to making a difference.

Congratulations to Falia, Aliki, and Gregory! We are proud to support your journeys and look forward to your continued contributions to medicine and the Hellenic community.