On Friday, June 19, 2026, the Irene Bailey Open Air Theater came alive with applause, pride, and celebration as the Deree community gathered for the 2026 Student Awards Ceremony. Students, families, faculty, staff, and friends came together to recognize the achievements of individuals and student groups whose academic excellence, leadership, creativity, and service have made a lasting impact on the College community.
The evening was led by Christina Drakonakis, Associate Dean of Students, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Opening remarks were delivered by Lucy Kanatsoulis, Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Students, followed by a message from ACG President Ed Wingenbach, who reflected on the importance of academic achievement, civic engagement, and leadership in shaping the future of the College and society.
This year, a total of 49 students were recognized for their accomplishments. Among them, 35 students received the Outstanding Graduating Student Award in their respective majors, in recognition of exceptional academic performance, departmental engagement, and contributions to the wider College community. The Graduate Student Leadership Award was presented to one master’s student whose service and involvement exemplified graduate student leadership. Additional students were honored through a wide range of Student Life Achievement Awards recognizing excellence in leadership, service, athletics, global engagement, creativity, wellness, and community impact.
Beyond individual achievements, the ceremony also celebrated the collective contributions of student groups. Awards were presented to one student organization, one student club, and three academic societies—representing the Frances Rich School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, the School of Business and Economics, and the School of Science and Technology—for their outstanding contributions to co-curricular life and student engagement. In total, 63 awards were presented during the evening, reflecting the many ways students enrich the Deree experience both inside and outside the classroom.
Throughout the ceremony, academic leaders, administrators, and distinguished guests presented a diverse range of honors, including the International Honors Award, Artistic Achievement Award, Athletic Award, Global Citizenship Award, Diversity Advocacy Award, ACG Work Study Award, Community Service Award, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Scholar Award, and the Kathimerini Award. Together, these awards highlighted the breadth of student achievement and the many pathways through which students contribute to the life of the College and the broader community.
A special highlight of the evening was the musical program performed by Deree students. Audiences enjoyed The Lullaby of Hope by Artemis Theoni Dopoulos and selections from Seasons of Love from the musical RENT, showcasing the artistic talent, creativity, and collaborative spirit that thrive across the ACG community.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the College Life Leadership Award and the Deree Spirit Award by President Edward Wingenbach. These prestigious honors recognized students who have distinguished themselves through exemplary leadership, integrity, service, and commitment to the values of Deree.
The 2026 Student Awards Ceremony served as a powerful reminder that the Deree experience extends far beyond the classroom. Through academic excellence, leadership, innovation, service, and community engagement, this year’s recipients have helped shape the College community and set an inspiring example for future generations of students.
Congratulations to all 2026 award recipients!
