President Christodoulides of Cyprus delivered the keynote address at the Federation of Cypriot American Organizations (FCAO) honoring two distinguished Cypriots in the US.
The sold-out Testimonial Dinner on Friday, September 26, 2025, at New York’s Terrace on the Park hosted the tribute to two distinguished leaders of Cypriot heritage whose professional work has made a significant global impact.
The President’s attendance and remarks underscored the importance of the diaspora and the deepening ties between the two nations.
Honoring Two “Outstanding Ambassadors”
In his address, President Christodoulides praised the FCAO, stating:
“You, the leadership and members of the Federation of Cypriot Organizations of America, are our most authentic ambassadors and we thank you for this.”
He then focused on the honorees, congratulating them for their achievements:
“Tonight, it is also a great honor to recognize this year’s honorees. Dr. Marina Theodotou is a highly accomplished professional with more than 25 years of experience in leadership positions across the private sector, public service, and academia. Mr. Panos Panay, President of the Recording Academy and the Grammy Awards, is a recognized global leader in music. Both serve as outstanding ambassadors of Cyprus, and I warmly congratulate them. We are very proud of them.”
Both award recipients were born and raised in Cyprus before coming to the USA to pursue their studies, a fact the President highlighted as a source of pride for the Cypriot nation. He concluded by noting that their success “exemplifies the Federation’s mission and inspires all of us to continue working with determination and vision. Dear Marina, dear Panos, thank you and congratulations. We look forward to seeing you in Cyprus.”
Award recipients and achievements
Mr. Panos A. Panay, President of the Recording Academy/GRAMMY Awards, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. He was recognized for his leadership and innovation in the global music industry, including his pioneering work as founder of Sonicbids and his executive roles at Berklee College of Music and the Recording Academy.
Dr. Marina Theodotou, Executive Director of the Center for Frontier AI Security, was presented with the Leadership Award. Dr. Theodotou was honored for her over 30 years of experience in defense, finance, and innovation policy, including her service as Executive Director of the Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Board, where she shaped U.S. defense strategy on emerging technologies.
On US-Cyprus relations
The President of Cyprus also emphasized the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries, telling the attendees:
“Building on the foundations you provided, the Cyprus–US partnership continues to grow stronger and stronger, grounded in shared values and mutual respect. We are indeed at a historic moment in Cyprus–US relations. Our bilateral ties are stronger than ever before, anchored in shared values, mutual respect, and a common vision for democracy and stability.”
He added that the potential for Cyprus-US relations is virtually unlimited, and by working together, we can reach even greater heights and pursue new opportunities that will benefit both our nations and our people.
The Federation of Cypriot American Organizations is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit representing 28 Greek Cypriot American associations across the United States. Its mission is to promote cultural, educational, and philanthropic initiatives that preserve Cypriot heritage while strengthening ties between the U.S. and Cyprus.
Related: Cyprus President Honors Nikos Mouyiaris: A Legacy of Patriotism and Philanthropy
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