Set against the illuminated Acropolis, the evening brought together members of the Greek Diaspora, Philhellenes, business leaders, public officials, and supporters from around the world in celebration of their shared commitment to Greece and its future. In his remarks, President Wingenbach expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reflected on ACG’s enduring mission to expand opportunity, advance knowledge, and prepare generations of students to contribute meaningfully to Greece and the world.

This honor holds particular significance as The American College of Greece marks a defining moment in our history. Since its founding in 1875, ACG has remained deeply connected to Greece, evolving across generations while staying true to its commitment to academic excellence, service, and the transformative power of education. The College has grown alongside the country it serves, opening doors for students, building bridges between Greece and the international academic community, and creating opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

The significance of the occasion was further highlighted by the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who delivered the evening’s keynote address. In his remarks, he highlighted the vital role of the Greek Diaspora and praised The Hellenic Initiative for transforming its enduring connection to Greece into meaningful action. THI’s Award for Excellence was also presented to Nikos Koumettis, a member of THI’s Board of Directors and Vice Chair of the ACG Board of Directors, in recognition of his distinguished contribution to the organization and its mission.

The American College of Greece extends its heartfelt appreciation to The Hellenic Initiative for this meaningful distinction. More than a recognition of ACG’s history, the honor affirms a shared belief in education, service, and the enduring strength of the bonds that connect Greece with the global Hellenic community.

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With immense pride, deep gratitude, and a profound sense of responsibility, The American College of Greece announces that Deree, The American University of Greece, was granted an establishment and operating license as a University Legal Entity on July 24, 2026, in accordance with Law 5094/2024.

The decision marks one of the most significant milestones in the history of The American College of Greece. It formally brings Deree’s American academic model into Greece’s regulated university framework and creates new opportunities for students to pursue internationally oriented, state-recognized university education in Greece.

For ACG—the oldest and largest non-profit educational institution with American accreditation in Europe—this achievement represents the natural continuation of a mission that began in 1875: to provide high-quality education, broaden access to opportunity, and prepare students to contribute meaningfully to society.

A Vision Realized

The American College of Greece submitted its application for the establishment and operation of Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E. on February 26, 2026, in collaboration with Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, USA.

Following extensive academic, institutional, and administrative work, the granting of the license opens a new phase of growth for ACG. Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E., will offer state-recognized university education while preserving the international outlook, student-centered philosophy, academic rigor, and high standards that have defined Deree for generations.

Edward C. Wingenbach, PhD, President of The American College of Greece, stated:

The licensing of Deree, The American University of Greece as a University Legal Entity marks a historic milestone for The American College of Greece and crowns a journey spanning 151 years—a journey defined by dedication to academic excellence and expanding access to education. This new chapter further strengthens our mission to empower young people to thrive within a dynamic, diverse, and internationally oriented learning environment while creating even greater opportunities for Greece’s standing as a global educational destination.

American University Education in Greece

The partnership with Roger Williams University is central to the academic foundation of Deree University U.L.E. and supports the delivery of American university education within the framework of Greek legislation.

Roger Williams University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, while its Mario J. Gabelli School of Business holds accreditation from the internationally recognized Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Through this partnership, students will have the opportunity to study in Greece and earn degrees awarded by an American university under the country’s new regulatory framework for non-state higher education.

Brian Williams, PhD, Interim President of Roger Williams University, commented:

Our partnership with The American College of Greece is built on shared values, including academic excellence, innovation, and preparing students for an ever-changing world. The licensing of Deree, The American University of Greece marks an important new chapter in our collaboration, and we look forward to contributing to the delivery of outstanding American university education in Greece with a global perspective and meaningful impact for students and society.

Three Schools and a Broad Academic Offering

During its initial phase of operation, Deree University U.L.E. will comprise three Schools:

• School of Business and Economics
• School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• School of Science and Technology

The three Schools have applied to offer 22 undergraduate degree programs and one graduate degree program across business, economics, communication, the social sciences, technology, computing, the arts, and the humanities.

Designed in the tradition of American higher education, the programs emphasize interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, experiential education, research, innovation, and strong connections with the labor market. At the same time, they preserve Deree’s distinctive educational approach, enabling students to develop expertise in their chosen field while gaining the broader perspective, judgment, and adaptability needed to navigate a rapidly changing world.

Expanding Access and Ensuring Continuity

Consistent with its non-profit mission, Deree University U.L.E. will continue to invest in scholarships and financial assistance, recognizing academic excellence and expanding access to high-quality education.

The establishment of the new University also fully ensures the continuity of Deree’s existing academic activities. Current Deree students will complete their studies under the programs in which they are already enrolled, while existing academic programs will continue without interruption or modification.

The new University will welcome its first cohort of students in accordance with the provisions of the new legislative framework, marking the beginning of a new phase of institutional growth while preserving the academic stability and continuity that have long characterized ACG.

A Future Shaped by Education

The granting of the establishment and operating license is not only a defining achievement for The American College of Greece; it is also a renewed commitment to the students, families, educators, and communities it serves.

Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E. will broaden the range of university study options available in Greece, strengthen the country’s connections with the international academic community, and create new pathways for students seeking a rigorous, globally minded, and transformative educational experience.

ACG enters this new era with humility before the responsibility it carries, gratitude to every person who helped make this moment possible, and confidence in the promise of what comes next.

If you would like to learn more about Deree University U.L.E., please visit our website here.

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Established in collaboration with Kathimerini, the award recognizes an exceptional article written in English on a timely and socially relevant issue. As part of the distinction, the winning article is published in the English edition of Kathimerini, a joint edition with The New York Times.

This year’s competition challenged students to reflect on the theme “Beyond Objectivity: Rethinking Truth in Social Media Storytelling,” exploring whether traditional journalistic objectivity still holds value in the digital era or is increasingly being replaced by authentic-looking, participatory, and highly shareable forms of news.

Following an open competition and a faculty review process, the three shortlisted submissions were evaluated by Kathimerini. Nour Al-Tzaratli, a graduating student in International Relations and European Affairs, was selected as the 2026 recipient for the article “Authentic by Design,” which was published in Kathimerini‘s English edition on July 18, marking the successful completion of this year’s award cycle.

The Kathimerini Award continues to provide students with a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary issues, showcase their journalistic talent, and see their work reach a national readership through one of Greece’s leading newspapers.

Read the winning article, “Authentic by Design”: https://www.ekathimerini.com/opinion/1309914/authentic-by-design/

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Held under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future,” the conference brought together more than 5,000 delegates and representatives from 104 countries and organizations, reaffirming its role as one of the world’s leading platforms for international ocean governance. This year’s conference resulted in 320 new commitments, mobilizing US$6.4 billion in funding to support marine conservation, sustainable development, scientific research, and climate resilience.

Among the institutions presenting new commitments, The American College of Greece announced two research initiatives aimed at advancing ocean sustainability. The first focuses on further developing nature-based solutions to strengthen coastal resilience against climate change and coastal hazards. The second aims to strengthen ocean-related research and women’s participation in marine science through the FemmeSTEM initiative of the Center of Excellence in Sustainability, encouraging greater female representation in STEM fields connected to the marine environment.

During her briefing to the Hellenic Parliament, Dr. Apostolaki highlighted some of the conference’s most important outcomes, including the expansion of Marine Protected Areas, the implementation of the High Seas Treaty, the continued international discussion around deep-sea mining safeguards, the protection of climate-resilient coral reefs, and the adoption of the Mombasa Declaration to strengthen fisheries transparency and combat Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing.

A defining feature of this year’s conference was its strong emphasis on the role of local communities in achieving healthy and resilient oceans. Participants highlighted that effective marine conservation depends not only on international agreements and funding commitments, but also on empowering coastal communities that rely directly on marine ecosystems. The discussions also underscored the importance of strong governance, long-term monitoring, scientific research, and cross-sector collaboration in turning global ocean goals into measurable progress.

The next Our Ocean Conference will take place in Halifax, Canada, from May 9 to 11, 2027. Through its participation and commitments, The American College of Greece continues to contribute to international dialogue and research on sustainability, ocean protection, and climate resilience.

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“We are very happy and truly honored to receive this award. It means so much to all of us, as it reflects the dedication, passion, and teamwork of every member of the ACG Sustainability Leaders. This recognition is a reminder of what we can achieve when we share a common vision and work together for a greater purpose”, mentions Mina Bleka, Coordinator, ACG Sustainability Leaders, and Deree Student. “Over the past years, our members have been actively involved in initiatives such as food collection for families in need, blood donation campaigns, beach clean-ups, and tree planting. This award belongs to everyone who contributed, and it motivates us to continue creating meaningful impact in our community”, she adds.

Established in 2018 by the Office of Sustainability – Public Affairs, the ACG Sustainability Leaders (SLs) is a student volunteer organization that empowers students to become ambassadors for sustainable living among their peers, faculty, and staff. Open to students from all majors, the group brings together individuals who are passionate about making a positive environmental and social impact, while developing valuable leadership, teamwork, and professional skills.

Since its establishment, the student volunteers have contributed their time, creativity, and enthusiasm to a wide range of sustainability and community service activities both on and off campus. Their involvement has included participation in awareness campaigns, ACG Community Service Days, food rescue initiatives such as Boroume at the Farmers’ Market powered by ACG, blood donation drives, tree planting on Mount Hymettus, and many other projects promoting environmental stewardship, active citizenship, and social responsibility. Currently, over 50 members are involved in the ACG Sustainability Leaders, reaffirming their commitment to the organization’s mission and vision.

Receiving the Community Service Award for the fourth time reflects the lasting impact of the ACG Sustainability Leaders and the dedication of every student who has contributed to the organization’s mission over the past eight years.

“I could not be prouder of the ACG Sustainability Leaders and of every student who has shaped this group since its very beginning. As their Advisor from day one, and as Director of the Office of Sustainability – Public Affairs at ACG, it has been incredibly rewarding to watch an idea inspired by U.S. higher education practices and grounded in peer-to-peer education grow into a vibrant community of changemakers”, shared Rania Assariotaki, Director, Office of Sustainability – Public Affairs.

When we first envisioned the Sustainability Leaders in 2018, our goal was to empower students to become ambassadors of sustainable living within the ACG community. Eight years later, they continue to lead by example, inspire their peers, and bring ACG’s sustainability mission to life through meaningful service and action. Receiving the Community Service Award for the fourth time is a wonderful recognition of their dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on campus and beyond.

Congratulations to this year’s ACG Sustainability Leaders and to all recipients honored at the 2026 Student Awards Ceremony.

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The Alliance is a national initiative to curb food waste, led and coordinated by the nonprofit organization Boroume in partnership with AB Vassilopoulos, operating under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of Environment & Energy. It brings together public authorities, academic and research institutions, social impact organisations, and food and service businesses to address food waste across the supply chain.

Submitted annually by Alliance members, these reports feature the actions, programs, and initiatives spearheaded and implemented by the members during the previous calendar year, structured around ten best-practice axes. These axes follow the food use and waste hierarchy, which prioritizes, among others, prevention of waste at the source, prevention through donation or other redistribution of surplus for human consumption, use as animal feed, and more.

In the 2025 report, coordinated and submitted by the Office of Sustainability – Public Affairs, ACG is featured in the following six categories based on six impactful initiatives:

• Public Policy for the Prevention & Reduction of Food Waste: Participation in the national Food Saving Action Week 2025 campaign and contribution to public policy initiatives through the Alliance for the Reduction of Food Waste.
• Holistic Management – Holistic Approach: Implementation of ACG’s Sustainable Events Guidelines & Checklist and the introduction of a half-portion meal option on campus to help reduce food waste; an ongoing initiative since 2018.
• Awareness-Raising & Education: Continued implementation of the “ACG Food Waste Campaign: Reduce your FOODprint!”, complemented by educational activities, student engagement initiatives, awareness events, and communication campaigns throughout the academic year.
• Food Donations: Ongoing participation in Boroume στη Λαϊκή (Boroume at the Farmers’ Market), helping redirect surplus fresh produce to people in need, since 2018.
• Organic Waste Recycling/Composting: Expansion of campus composting through dedicated composting bins for the College’s main food service providers since 2024.
• Food Labeling: Research on date marking and food waste, conducted in collaboration with AB Vassilopoulos and Boroume to promote informed consumer choices and reduce unnecessary food waste since 2024.

ACG has submitted these annual reports as part of its membership in the Alliance from October 2020.

“ACG’s fifth submission to the annual report of the Alliance for the Reduction of Food Waste reflects our long-standing commitment to responsible and holistic food management across our campuses and beyond. Through prevention practices, awareness and educational initiatives, food donations, composting, research, and cross-sector collaboration, we continue to foster a culture of conscious consumption within our community while actively contributing to the collective effort to reduce food waste in Greece”, highlights Rania Assariotaki, ACG Sustainability Director, Office of Sustainability – Public Affairs. “As a member of the Alliance, ACG remains committed to sharing best practices, strengthening partnerships, and continuously improving our impact toward a more sustainable future.”

Through its longstanding participation in the Alliance and the annual reporting process, ACG continues to document, evaluate, and share its progress in preventing and reducing food waste. By sharing best practices and working alongside partners across Greece, the College contributes to collective efforts to reduce food waste and advance more sustainable food systems.

Because ACG Cares!

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This year’s ceremony marked a meaningful moment for The American College of Greece, as it was the first Minor Commencement presided over by Edward C. Wingenbach, PhD, President of ACG. It also marked the third year of a ceremony dedicated to recognizing students who chose to broaden their academic experience, explore new fields of knowledge, and pursue learning beyond the requirements of their major.

Faculty, family members, friends, and members of the ACG community gathered on the Aghia Paraskevi campus to honor the graduates and celebrate their commitment to interdisciplinary learning. Through their Minors, students expanded their academic horizons, connected different areas of study, and developed skills and perspectives that will support them in their future academic, professional, and personal paths.

The ceremony was led by Haris Daskalothanassis, Executive Director for Outreach and Student Retention, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Lucy Kanatsouli, Associate Vice President of Enrollment and Students, announced the certificate recipients, while President Wingenbach delivered the opening remarks, congratulating the Class of 2026 on their achievement and the dedication reflected in completing a Minor.

The student address was delivered by Christina Petsa, who spoke on behalf of the Class of 2026 and reflected on the pride, nostalgia, and sense of possibility that come with completing one chapter and beginning another. Looking back on her academic journey, she described the Minor as a pivotal part of her growth at ACG, one that became much more than an academic credential. “The opportunities that ACG gave us extend beyond the academic,” she said. “Those experiences taught us that growth often happens outside the classroom, in the moments when we take initiative, engage with the community, and step outside our comfort zones.”

In her remarks, Petsa also paid tribute to the people who shaped the graduates’ experience, from classmates and club members to professors, mentors, families, and friends. Addressing her fellow graduates, she invited them to look back on the milestone with warmth and gratitude, reminding them that the day honored not only their own efforts but also the support of those who stood beside them through every deadline, setback, and success.

The Minor Commencement Ceremony reflects Deree’s commitment to the breadth and flexibility of an American-style education. By pursuing a Minor, students are encouraged to combine their major with another area of interest, creating a more personalized academic path and strengthening the interdisciplinary perspective that defines the Deree experience.

As the graduates crossed the stage, each certificate represented more than an additional academic credential. It reflected extra effort, intellectual curiosity, and the decision to make the most of the opportunities available at Deree.

Congratulations to the Deree Class of 2026 Minor graduates!

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Men’s Basketball

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Men’s Basketball

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Men’s Basketball (ESKA)

PAO THRIAMVOS ATHINON DAFNIS – DEREE = 78-85

Thursday, May 21

Men’s Basketball (ESKA)

AO ANADRASI KERATEAS – DEREE = 72-80

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