Mimi Skandalakis, Eighth National Philoptochos President, 1994-1998

We proudly honor the Eighth National Philoptochos President, Mrs. Mimi Skandalakis. The following reflects on her tenure as National President from 1994 through 1998.

Mrs. Skandalakis was appointed as National Philoptochos President by Archbishop Iakovos of blessed memory in 1994 and was honored to lead this important philanthropic organization of the Church which she and her late, beloved husband, Dr. John Skandalakis served all their lives. Her goal was to expand the service offered by Philoptochos and to ensure inclusion so that everyone became engaged in the organization.

Mimi traveled often on early morning flights from Atlanta to the National Philoptochos Office in New York City to oversee the multiple presidential responsibilities and traveled throughout the country visiting each Diocese and many Chapters.

She raised awareness of critical social issues including presentations at the National Philoptochos Convention with special educational speakers and videos and promoted the enhanced role of women. During her tenure as President, National Philoptochos pledged $100,000 for the Archbishop Iakovos Library and Resource Center at Hellenic College Holy Cross in Brookline, MA donating in total over $170,000. National Philoptochos also initiated the Awards Program during her presidency that honors the excellent philanthropic works of the Philoptochos Chapters nationwide as well as participated in the International Year of the Family.

Following the retirement of Archbishop Iakovos in 1996, Mimi served under Archbishop Spyridon offering valuable support throughout her tenure.

Mrs. Skandalakis encouraged all members to continue the good work of Philoptochos and was proud of the continuing legacy with her daughter, Vicky Scaljon, who serves on the National Board and her granddaughter Mimi Godwin.

Mrs. Skandalakis passed away July, 2012. May her memory be eternal.