Theofanis Economidis Heritage Greece® Scholarship Fund

Theofanis "Fanis" Economides was an NHS founding member and an architect of the Heritage Greece® Program that has sponsored 1000+ students of Greek descent on this life changing Program.   Fanis leaves behind a legacy intertwined with the mission, values, and enduring impact of the NHS. His belief in the importance of connecting young Greek Americans to their roots helped shape Heritage Greece® into one of the most meaningful experiential cultural programs in the Greek diaspora.

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For Fanis, Heritage Greece® was not simply a program—it was a calling. He saw it as a life-changing bridge between generations, one that strengthened identity, deepened understanding of Hellenic culture, and ensured that Greek heritage would continue to flourish in homes, families, and communities across the United States. His enthusiasm, stewardship, and clear vision were instrumental in making Heritage Greece® the transformative experience it is today. In honor of his extraordinary commitment, the NHS is establishing the Fanis Economides Heritage Greece® Scholarship Fund to support future participants and carry forward the mission he held so dearly.

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Born in 1936, in Dessylla, Messenias, Greece, Fanis lived a life shaped by faith, discipline, and service. After graduating from the Greek Military Cadet Academy in 1958 and serving a decade as an artillery officer in the Greek Army, he immigrated to the United States, where he excelled academically and professionally. He earned degrees from UCLA and Stanford and became a respected leader in engineering and national security, contributing significantly to NASA programs and later serving as an executive at TRW Inc. His accomplishments reflected his sharp mind, unwavering work ethic, and devotion to excellence.

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Fanis was a pillar of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. For more than 35 years he served on the Metropolis Council, including 25 years as Vice President, offering unparalleled leadership, wisdom, and dedication. He also served as President of the Board of Saint Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center, where his vision and steady guidance strengthened this vital ministry. His service extended far beyond the Metropolis to the entire Church. A devoted Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, he served as Regional Commander of the Archons of the Metropolis of San Francisco and was a respected representative of the Mother Church on the international stage, including several years defending religious freedom at the OSCE meetings in Warsaw, Poland.

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Equally influential within the Greek American community, Fanis offered seventeen years of leadership as President of the Elios Society, played a foundational role in establishing the NHS and served as Chairman of the Board of The Hellenic Journal, ensuring a strong cultural and media presence for Greek Americans in the western United States. His service and initiatives promoted Hellenic ideals, philanthropic outreach, and civic engagement across generations.

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Reflecting on his passing, His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos said, “Fanis was a man of deep faith whose life was guided by humility, integrity, and quiet strength. He offered extraordinary service to Christ and His Church and did so with sincerity, grace, and unwavering devotion. His wisdom shaped our Metropolis, his leadership strengthened our institutions, and his kindness touched every person who had the blessing of knowing him. Although we mourn his loss, we give thanks to God for the profound legacy he leaves behind and for the example of Christian service he embodied.”

Fanis was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cynthia (Efstathia) and is survived by their devoted daughter, Roberta (Hariklia).   Fanis will be remembered as a gentleman who embodied faith, loyalty, and honor—values that live on not only in his family, but in the countless individuals, communities, and organizations shaped by his leadership.

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Through the Fanis Economides Heritage Greece® Scholarship Fund, the National Hellenic Society honors Fanis' memory by continuing the work he cherished most: inspiring young Greek Americans to embrace their heritage, strengthen their identity, and build lasting bonds with Greece. His legacy will guide Heritage Greece—and the NHS—for generations to come.