Beatrice Marks, Fifth National Philoptochos President, 1982 – 1986

We proudly honor the Fifth National Philoptochos President, Mrs. Beatrice Marks. The following reflects on her tenure as National President from 1982 through 1986.

Mrs. Beatrice Marks is remembered for revolutionizing the role of the National President, traveling across the United States and Canada (at this time we were the Archdiocese of North & South America), bringing the message and mission of Philoptochos to Churches and Chapters throughout the Archdiocese. Mrs. Marks visited each Diocese and Canada and worked closely with the National Office where she introduced modern accounting practice and procedures.

Specific programs initiated during her tenure were the adoption of Christian Stewardship as the means by which the members offer their support, financially and spiritually to the Society. During the period National Philoptochos expanded support for the institutions of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and established funds for the higher educational needs of students at Saint Basil Academy.

Mrs. Marks chaired a National Philoptochos Convention and provided guidance in the National Conventions in 1974 and 1994. She actively supported the Children’s Medical Fund Luncheons, including the 2001 Luncheon in the Metropolis of Chicago.

Special moments included meeting His All Holiness Patriarch Demetrios in 1990 and His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew in 1997 on their visits to Chicago as well as working and meeting with His Eminence Archbishop Iakovos on visits to New York and whenever Archbishop Iakovos visited Chicago. Special people and dignitaries she met include Presidents, Senators, Congressmen, Mayors and Ambassadors.

When asked what it means to be National President, Mrs. Marks stated, “It is an honor and a privilege!” She offered the following advice to future Presidents and Philoptochos Leaders, “Continue to bring faith, commitment, dedication and professionalism to Philoptochos’ operation and function.”

Mrs. Marks passed away on November 18, 2014. May her memory be eternal.