George P. Makris was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in the sport of football and for his achievements as the University's Director of Athletic Development.
Makris earned three varsity letters for the Huskies. In a career that was split by World War II, he lettered as an offensive guard and defensive tackle in 1941, then returned after his tour of duty to letter in 1946 and 1947. Elected by his teammates as the 1947 captain, he won several all-star accolades for his bruising play that season. Makris also earned one letter with the baseball team, and in 1947, with his football career behind him, Makris volunteered his services as the hockey manager. After several injuries to the varsity goalers, however, Makris was forced between the pipes and earned a varsity letter in ice hockey.
After 25 years of working with Electrolux Corporation, Makris returned to Northeastern. At first he devoted his time to the Varsity Club as president in 1975 and then as treasurer. His devotion to the University was evident, and in 1977, Makris became the first Director of Athletic Development. His first charge called for raising $150,000 for the general upgrading of the varsity athletic program. Within two years that figure had reached $500,000. Makris' next project came in 1980 with the newly purchased Boston Arena. The Arena Fund Drive exceeded one million dollars as decrepit Boston Arena became the rejuvenated Matthews Arena. One of the highlights of the Arena is the handsome function facility which was named the George Makris Varsity Club Room. He has also led campaigns for the restoration of both Parsons Field and Solomon Court.
A creative fund-raiser, he has initiated many annual golf tournaments and road races that have brought in millions of dollars for athletic scholarships. He started the "Fight to Educate" program, a black tie evening with amateur fights that after 18 years, has raised nearly $1 million. He is also a 20-year member of the Marlboro, Mass. Chapter of AHEPA, where he started an annual raffle that has raised over $50,000 for needy families, and he has also supported many AHEPA golf tournaments, including one in Corfu, Greece.
Makris is a long-time director and former president of the Eastern Massachusetts Chapter of the National Football Foundation and in 1997 was the recipient of their Distinguished American award. He is currently starting his 30th year with the University, and a presence at almost every home varsity game.
