ALBANY – New York State Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R, C-Staten Island/Brooklyn) on March 26 was joined in Albany by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America to recognize Greek Independence Day and the 50th anniversary of the illegal Turkish invasion and continued occupation of Cyprus.

In an official Assembly proclamation, Tannousis recognized Maria Pappas for her incredible work and contributions to the Cypriot-American community. Pappas was elected to the esteemed position of President of the Cyprus-U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 2020 and is the first woman to be elected to this role. She is a Managing Director and Senior Fixed Income Portfolio Manager at Neuberger Berman and has a 40-year career in the investment industry.

Tannousis said: “It was my pleasure to welcome back His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America to Albany alongside many Greek and Cypriot friends for our Greek Heritage Celebration. Fifty years ago, the Turkish invasion of Cyprus displaced thousands of Cypriots from their homes. Many of them fled to New York City. Now, 50 years later, we commemorate the 50th dark anniversary of this injustice. But we also celebrate people from the Cypriot and Greek communities who have established themselves within our community. Maria Pappas is a shining example of such an individual. She has been incredibly influential to the Cypriot community in New York. She has also broken barriers both in the investment industry and by being elected the first woman President of the Cyprus-U.S. Chamber of Commerce.”

Also in attendance at the event were AHEPA Supreme President Savas Tsivicos, Dr. Florentia Christodoulidou, NYS Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, PSEKA President Philip Christopher, and NYS Senator Andrew Gounardes.