From February 5–8, 2026, the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort in Phoenix will become the gathering place for the 35th Annual Leadership 100 Conference, one of the most impactful philanthropic fellowships in the Greek American community.
This year’s conference is particularly poignant as it marks both the 42nd anniversary of Leadership 100 and a 20-year milestone since the passing of its visionary founder, Archbishop Iakovos.
Who is Leadership 100?
Founded in 1984, the Archbishop Iakovos Leadership 100 Fund was created to provide a “perpetual endowment” for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. What started as a goal to find 100 dedicated leaders has grown into a network of over 1,300 members.
To date, the fund has distributed over $83 million in grants, supporting everything from youth ministries and scholarships for future priests to humanitarian relief during global crises. It is the backbone of the Church’s national ministries, ensuring that the light of Hellenism and Orthodoxy continues to shine for future generations.
Conference highlights: Tradition meets the future
Led by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, this year’s program balances deep historical reflection with a look at modern leadership and will include:
- Honoring the Founder: The weekend opens with In His Own Words: Archbishop Iakovos, a documentary by Nicholas Furris. It’s a tribute to the man who famously marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and spent his life moving the Church toward a “truly Orthodox Christian” identity in America.
- A roster of visionaries: Attendees will hear from a diverse group of thinkers, including George Logothetis (Libra Group), George Postolos (The Postolos Group), and Katina Pappas Dermatas (Ladurée US).
- Cultural spirit: The Faith, Dance & Fellowship (FDF) program—the largest Greek folk dance festival in the US—will bring the energy and vibrant traditions of the youth to the Arizona desert.
The weekend is more than a series of meetings; it’s a reunion featuring a Hellenic glendi, golf and tennis tournaments, and a “Private Dialogue” specifically for young professionals. The conference culminates on Sunday morning with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, grounding the weekend’s celebrations in the faith that started it all.
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