AHEPAN of The Year 2025. Fr. Nicolaos Kotsis

District Governor James Thomas and DOP Advisor & Past Grand Governor Dorthea Williams presented the 2025 AHEPAN of the Year Award to The Venerable Fr. Nicolaos H. Kotsis—the first active priest in nearly half a century to receive this honor in District 10.

Born and raised in Michigan, Fr. Nick has served as the beloved Proistamenos of St. Nicholas in Ann Arbor since 2005. A graduate of the University of Michigan and Holy Cross, he has spent decades guiding our youth, supporting our brothers and sisters, and strengthening the bond between the Orthodox faith and Hellenism. Fr. Nick is the eldest of four sons born to Dr. Harry and Katherine Kotsis, both native Detroiters. A scholar and servant of Christ, he earned his B.A. in History from the University of Michigan (1996) and his Master of Divinity from Holy Cross (2000).

He served as Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Metropolis of Detroit (2000–2003), and as Assistant to His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas (2003–2004). In 2001, he married Presvytera Sandra (Alexandra Spilson), and together they have raised three children—Harry, Vasiliki, and George. Presvytera Sandra continues her research work at the University of Michigan Hospital.

Fr. Nick has been a tireless mentor, a voice of wisdom, and a champion of AHEPA’s mission—bringing in new members, inspiring young leaders, and always leading with humility, devotion, and Orthodox conviction.

His every action, his every word, and the countless lives he continues to shape. We are truly blessed to have him here in Michigan.

Axios, Fr. Nick! A well-deserved honor for a life of service and faith.