Katherine Gakis-Karapalides

Katherine Gakis-Karapalides From Food to Child-Care

Katherine (Aikaterini) was born in Thessaloniki, Greece, and immigrated to the United States at the age of five. She is the daughter of Aristokratis and Antigoni (Ourdas) Gakis. Kathy attended Upper Darby High School and worked in her parents’ restaurant in Wildwood during the summer months, where she learned her skills for cooking, which she is still well-known for today.

Kathy began a career in the restaurant business assisting in the opening of several establishments while continuing to work in her family restaurants. Upon her marriage to Harry J. Karapalides, she worked for many years managing his law office.

In 2008, Kathy took a completely different path in life when she opened her first child day care business, Treasure Island Academy, Inc., in Upper Darby. Ten years later, she’s the owner of two more child day care businesses, TIA The Journey, Inc. and Treasure Island Academy III, Inc. She is dedicated to the education and nurturing of children, especially the underprivileged. Her pride in her business is evident in her high-quality and superior schools.

Kathy is a Past-President of the Amalia Chapter of the Pan Macedonian Society. She also served as secretary to the Millbourne Borough Council from 1990 to 1995. She has two daughters, Christina Karapalides and Demetra Karapalides.

Submitted by Christina and Demetra Karapalides