Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology is awarding honorary degrees to two esteemed leaders whose contributions have shaped both the life of the Church and the mission of the school.
At the 2025 HCHC Commencement Ceremony at the Maliotis Cultural Center, Protopresbyter Fr. Alexander Karloutsos will receive an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Holy Cross, while Helen A. Carlos, a longtime trustee and philanthropic leader, will receive an honorary Doctorate of Humanities from Hellenic College. These recognitions were approved by the HCHC Board of Trustees during its March 2025 meeting, presided over by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, in acknowledgment of each honoree’s exceptional service.
“These honorary degrees reflect HCHC’s gratitude for two individuals whose faith, leadership, and generosity have strengthened the Church and inspired future generations,” said President Dr. Demetrios S. Katos. “Our students, faculty and staff are blessed to have such role models.”
Fr. Alexander Karloutsos has served the Church and nation for over five decades in key leadership roles, including as Vicar General of the Archdiocese, Spiritual Advisor to the Archons, and liaison to public institutions. He played a central role in the creation of the St. Nicholas National Shrine, the Dormition Church in the Hamptons, and the Camp David Interfaith Chapel. Fr. Karloutsos was also instrumental in the restoration of the Holy Sepulcher. His work has earned international recognition, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Helen A. Carlos has provided transformative leadership to HCHC as a distinguished trustee, supporting critical academic and spiritual initiatives. She is the founder of the St. Helen’s Pilgrimage for seminarians and a strong supporter of the CrossRoad Summer Institute and Office of Vocation & Ministry. Helen’s service also includes leadership roles within Leadership 100, the Archdiocesan Council, and support for the Diakonia Retreat Center and St. Photios National Shrine. She credits her late parents, Andrew and Eula Carlos, and her husband, Ron Hilliard, for their lasting influence and support.
