In honor of Greek Independence Day, sociology professor George Kourvetaris was awarded for his efforts to raise awareness about Greek history and culture.

Kourvetaris, who is of Greek descent, received a “Certificate of Appreciation” presented by Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley on April 10 in the Chicago Cultural Center.

Enosis, or unity, an umbrella organization based in Chicago, recommended Kourvetaris for the award. Kourvetaris was one of five Greek Americans honored in celebration of the Greek Independence Day, March 25.

“It’s very important when people recognize and appreciate your intellectual work,” Kourvetaris said.

For years, he has been involved in the Greek American community in Chicago and has brought visibility to the community, said Kay Forest, chair of the department of sociology. When university faculty go beyond the classroom and beyond research agenda, they can have a real impact on the world around us, Forest said.

Kourvetaris has been involved with the Greek American community, as he has lectured to Greek American organizations such as the Pan Arcadian Federation Midwest District, and been published in publications such as the Journal of Political and Military Sociology.

The biannual journal, which Kourvetaris started in 1973, is a scholarly academic journal, Kourvetaris said.

“He took it upon himself to establish a new political journal,” said sociology professor emeritus Clinton Jesser, a close friend of Kourvetaris. “He really grew that journal up to be quite prominent in the field of sociology; he did most of the work on his own.”

Kourvetaris is most recognized for his work with the Paideia Project. The Paideia Project produces videos and DVDs which focus on the contributions of ancient Greeks to world civilization, Kourvetaris said. “Paideia,” which means “education and learning” in Greek, was initiated by Kourvetaris in 2002. The organization is not-for-profit and distributes the videos and DVDs to schools, libraries, universities and other organizations, he said. The videos focus on Greek democracy, freedom, philosophy, mathematics, religion, drama, music and more.

“He’s a real go-getter kind of guy,” Jesser said. “He launched some pretty pioneering and significant research as to the status and adjustment of Greeks to American culture.”

Jesser said Kourvetaris is a very ambitious, compassionate and outgoing person.

“I see him … leaving a legacy and being of service to other people,” Jesser said.