The Waterbury Times|Published Mar 25, 2026
Waterbury- Waterbury native Panagiota “Penny” Albini has been selected as the 2026 Greek Mayor for the Day, honoring her decades of dedication to family, faith, culture, and community in the city she calls home.
A Childhood Rooted in Greek Tradition
Born to Christos and Athena Petrakopoulos, who immigrated to the United States in 1955, Penny grew up in a home rich with Greek culture and the teachings of the Greek Orthodox Church. Alongside her siblings George, Donna, and Laura, she attended Sunday School and Greek School at the original Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on Maple Street. She participated annually in the March 25th Greek Independence Day program, reciting poems that honored Greece’s struggle for freedom—a passion that shaped her lifelong love for her heritage.
Penny’s childhood reflected a blend of Greek tradition and American life. She enjoyed visits to the Mattatuck Museumwith family, was a proud Girl Scout, and participated in the Waterbury Girls Club, where she first discovered the importance of community service. Those early lessons would later inspire her involvement with the Girls Club Board of Directors, the Women’s Committee, and the Board at the Mattatuck Museum.
Lifelong Dedication to Family, Faith, and Community
With support from then-Governor John Rowland, Penny joined the Park Place Project Committee, enhancing public spaces and fostering collaboration among the Mattatuck Museum, Girls Club, and YMCA. Her church life remained central throughout her youth and adulthood at the present-day Holy Trinity Church on Chase Parkway, deepening her connection to faith and culture through Sunday School, Greek School, and G.O.Y.A.
In 1990, Penny married Raymond Albini, and together they raised three children: Maria Elaina, Raymond, and Julia. She made the heartfelt choice to leave her IT position at Union Carbide to devote herself fully to motherhood, teaching Greek School and directing the Greek dance program, earning the affectionate title “Miss Penny.”
Penny also played a critical role in relocating the original Albini Funeral Home to its current Chase Parkway location and continues to work alongside her husband and now their children, Raymond and Maria Elaina.
Leadership and Service
Her commitment to Holy Trinity spans decades. From volunteering at annual festivals and launching the beloved “Café Frappe” with family to serving on the Parish Council and eventually becoming only the second woman elected President, Penny has consistently championed family, faith, and community. She is a proud member of the Daughters of Penelope, where she served as President and helped establish a scholarship program.
When Holy Trinity planned its expansion, Penny was the only woman on the committee, ensuring new spaces supported women’s and children’s organizations, reflecting her lifelong dedication to service.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, Penny is the proud Yiayia of two grandsons, Maverick and Giovanni, whom she looks forward to watching grow within the same church community that shaped her and her children. Her life reflects a deep commitment to family, church, heritage, and the city she has always called home.
Penny Albini said she is “beyond humbled and honored” to serve as this year’s Greek Mayor for the Day, a recognition of a lifetime of service and devotion to her community.
Event Details
What: Greek Mayor for the Day
Honoree: Penny Albini
Date: Saturday, March 28th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Waterbury City Hall – 235 Grand Street, Waterbury CT 06702
The Meaning of “Mayor for the Day”
Being named Mayor for the Day is an honorary recognition that celebrates individuals who have made a meaningful impact in their community. The title highlights dedication, leadership, and service, honoring those who inspire others through their work, volunteerism, and commitment to making their city a better place. It is a day to celebrate not only personal achievement, but also the values of community, civic pride, and the positive influence one person can have on those around them.
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