Hellenic Medical Society’s 89th Annual Scholarship Gala
Posted by estiator at 17 November, at 13 : 48 PM Print
Join Us For A Celebration of Excellence, Legacy,
and the Future of Medicine.
New York, NY — The Hellenic Medical Society proudly announces its 89th Annual Scholarship Gala, to be held at the legendary Cipriani 42nd Street on Saturday, December 20th, 2025, an unforgettable evening that celebrates Hellenic excellence in medicine and launches an exciting new chapter in our mission.
This year marks more than just another Gala — it marks the beginning of a movement. As medicine faces one of its most challenging eras, the Hellenic Medical Society is expanding its mission to strengthen scholarships, mentorship, and national outreach — ensuring that the next generation of Hellenic physicians not only survives but thrives.
In times when so many are asking “Why would anyone want to be a doctor these days?”, we answer: because healing is in our DNA, because the calling remains. And because Hellenes in medicine have always been woven into the very fabric of this profession. Often the quiet achievers, the well-kept secrets behind groundbreaking work ~ they remind us that Greeks have led in education, science, and healing for centuries. But this path is demanding, and it requires both mentorship among our leaders and the full support of our community — because medicine touches every home.
This year’s Gala is not just a celebration — it is a bold declaration of our renewed commitment to expand scholarships, deepen mentorship, and elevate the Hellenic presence in medicine nationwide. To do this, we need you by our side. Together, we will uplift the next generation of aspiring Hellenes who will — in one of the most demanding professions — do their part to advance our cultural legacy with clarity and purpose.
HMS places great emphasis on community. Each year, we honor three categories — Distinguished Physician, Distinguished Colleague, and Distinguished Hellene — each representing a pillar of who we are. Together, these categories remind us that we cannot advance alone — that excellence takes many forms, and that a thriving community is strengthened by the collective awareness, effort, and contributions of all.
This year we are honoured to recognize four remarkable individuals whose lives embody this mission:
● Our Distinguished Physicians, Drs. George Velmahos, MD, PhD, and Irene Souter, MD, an esteemed Harvard-Massachusetts General Hospital couple, are recognized
for clinical excellence and leadership in academic medicine. Dr. Velmahos, Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School & Chief of Trauma Surgery, has led initiatives to strengthen trauma systems worldwide, including guiding the establishment of 17 trauma centers in Greece. Dr. Souter, Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Harvard, is a leader in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, advancing women’s health through research, clinical excellence, and education.
● Our Distinguished Colleague, Dr. George Liakeas, a respected physician, past president of HMS, and beloved community leader is recognized for extraordinary devotion, integrity, and generosity that embodies the Society’s spirit.
● Our Distinguished Hellene, Savas C. Tsivicos, Immediate Past Supreme President of AHEPA, is recognized for his contributions to uplift Hellenism beyond the field of medicine. A steadfast advocate for justice and freedom in Cyprus, he is well known for elevating Hellenic issues on the national and international stage, while also expanding AHEPA’s philanthropic reach and advancing its scholarship funding to record levels during his tenure.
Under Cipriani’s glittering chandeliers, guests will enjoy world-class dining, live music with the Mylos Band of New York, and dancing, alongside an inspiring program that celebrates the remarkable achievements of this year’s scholarship recipients. The evening’s proceeds directly support HMS’s Scholarship Fund, empowering aspiring Hellenic medical professionals to pursue their calling without compromise.
We look forward to honoring the achievements of our scholarship recipients, celebrating our honorees, and renewing our shared commitment: when we come together, our impact is magnified.
Why Attend?
- Celebrate Hellenic excellence in one of medicine’s most demanding fields.
- Network with leading physicians, mentors and supporters of the Hellenic medical community.
- Be part of a nationwide expansion of scholarship and mentorship for Hellenic students.
- Support a cause that strengthens our heritage, our profession and our future wellness.
Get involved and Support Us:
- Purchase tickets or tables — join us as guests for an evening to remember. • Sponsor a table or place a journal ad — your gift directly supports the HMS scholarship fund. • Join The Scholar’s Circle by contributing a $2500 named-scholarship in your name or in honor of a loved one — a powerful way to invest in future physicians of Hellenic descent. • Volunteer as a mentor — guide a young Hellenic student on their path to medicine and make a lasting difference.
We invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey.
We invite you to have fun, dance the night away,
and be part of the next 89 years!
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About the Hellenic Medical Society The Hellenic Medical Society unites physicians and healthcare professionals of Hellenic heritage in the pursuit of excellence in medicine, research, education and cultural engagement. Rooted in tradition, our mission continues to evolve. Advances in communication and technology mean we are no longer bound by geography. What began as a New York–based society is now developing meaningful connections with Greek-American physicians across the country and expanding collaborations with sister societies in Greece.
Virtual networking is the foundation of this national expansion, while live symposiums—ultimately paired with virtual programming—represent the future we are building together. HMSNY recently introduced complimentary memberships for all students and young professionals under 35, removing financial barriers and encouraging early engagement. We are also expanding our “Friends of Medicine” category, welcoming professionals whose work intersects with healthcare, from law and technology to business and innovation.
Medicine touches every life. Whether you are a doctor, researcher, young professional, or simply interested in health and innovation, there is a place for you here.
For more information, please contact: Stavroula Toska – hellenicmed@gmail.com
Visit www.hellenicmedicalsociety.org
