The American Hellenic Institute Expresses Its Deep Sorrow on the Passing of Drexel University President Dr. Constantine Papadakis

WASHINGTON, DC—The American Hellenic Institute is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Constantine Papadakis. He died Sunday, April 5, 2009 of pulmonary complications. He was 63.

Dr. Papadakis is credited with raising the endowment, enrollment and profile of Drexel University.

He was a recipient of the 1999 AHI Hellenic Heritage Achievement Award. In addition, he lent of his time and talents by participating in a number of conferences over the years, including being a key speaker at the inaugural AHIF conference on The Future of Hellenism in America held in Washington, D.C., October 18-19, 2002.

AHI Executive Director Nick Larigakis said, “He was a remarkable individual with a true passion for his family, work, life and his Hellenic roots. We truly are honored and proud to have counted Dr. Papadakis as one of the most prestigious and dedicated members of the American Hellenic Institute. He has influenced the lives of many not only in the Greek American community, but to all those who were around him. May his memory be eternal.”

AHI Founder Gene Rossides stated, “I have known Constantine Papadakis for many years. He is a great man who did wonderful things for Drexel University, for the Greek American community, and to all those that knew him. His dedication to education is unparalleled and we are grateful for all that he has accomplished. May his memory be eternal.”

On behalf of all our members and staff, we extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to his wife Eliana, daughter, Maria and family.

A church service will be held at noon on April 14 at St. Luke Greek Orthodox Church in Broomall, Pa. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the "Constantine Papadakis Fund at Drexel University," Drexel University, 3141 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19104.

He will be greatly missed. May His Memory Be Eternal.

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For additional information, please contact C. Franciscos Economides at (202) 785-8430 or at pr@ahiworld.org. For general information about the activities of AHI, please see our website at https://www.ahiworld.org.