Who We Are
Genealogy has always been of interest to our founder, Mr. John Daskalakis. What began as a weekend hobby while working for Microsoft slowly developed into an “honest and trustworthy rapport” among the global Greek community. As a result, he was asked to assist in genealogical research for others in his downtime. These same people suggested that he elevate his genealogical skills and consider a career in genealogy full-time.
Mr. Daskalakis completed the Boston University Genealogical Principles course and earned his MS in Elementary Education and his BS in Adult Education from Dowling College and St. Joseph’s University of New York, respectively. He holds a permanent New York State teaching certification and is a Microsoft-certified Education Expert.
Currently, he is actively pursuing a Ph.D. focused on Greek American History. He is seeking a university that aligns with his research interests, particularly a dissertation topic titled The Anti-Greek Sentiment in the United States Since the 1800s and Greek American Participation in the American Civil Rights Movement. This research aims to investigate the ethnic bias and anti-Greek sentiment in the U.S. at various governmental levels since the late 1800s, examining the migration of over 400,000 Greeks seeking a better life and their involvement in civil rights movements.
Furthermore, Mr. Daskalakis is collaborating with Irene Peros, Executive Director of the Women's Division at the PanCretan Association of America. Together, they are researching notable Cretan women throughout history, focusing on their contributions during World War II. The Battle of Crete holds enduring significance for the Greek community, particularly those of Cretan heritage, and this project seeks to honor and spotlight these unsung heroines.
Memberships include the National Genealogical Society (NGS), the Associaton of Professional Genealogists (APG), the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society (NYG&B), the Utah Genealogical Association (UGA), International Society of Genetic Genealogy (ISOGG),
the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), the Greek American Chamber of Commerce, and the PanCretan Association of America.
Rizes Hellenic Genealogy Research collaborates with professionals in their specific areas of expertise who are knowledgeable and well-known individuals in the global Greek genealogical and historical communities.
