Hellen Antonopolous

Hellen Antonopoulos devoted her career to healing trauma and fostering the well-being of students, staff, and families in Chicago. She lived out her life with purpose, with love, and with joy. She was a kind-hearted colleague and friend who deeply cared about her work and was always willing to lend a hand. Hellen had a great sense of humor and made those in her life feel deeply valued and heard.

Hellen started her career as a student at Lane Tech High School. She was passionate about student representation and led her Student Government Association. Upon graduation, Hellen transitioned to Loyola University and earned her Bachelor’s in Sociology, Master’s of Social Work and Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) in Children’s Law and Policy.

Hellen most recently served as the Executive Director of the Office of Social and Emotional Learning (OSEL) at Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Under her leadership, OSEL was awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Education to address the comprehensive behavioral and mental health needs of students. This project, known as Healing Trauma Together, created 10 trauma-sensitive high school communities that promote student resiliency. Hellen also played an integral role launching Chicago Public School’s Healing-Centered Framework, focused on collective wellness for all CPS students, staff, families, caregivers, and communities.

Building on her lifelong dedication in service of others, the Hellen Antonopoulos Memorial Fund will support a scholarship for a student seeking a career of service as well as provide funds for individually-responsive mental wellness resources for CPS students.

Standard Network for Good processing fees apply for online donations. 100% of funding to CFF will go directly to benefit the memorial fund.