Hellenic American University has been unanimously accepted as a regular member of the Association of American International Colleges and Universities (AAICU), following the members’ recent meeting in Lugano, Switzerland.

AAICU brings together colleges and universities that offer American higher education outside the United States, supporting cooperation and the exchange of academic experience and practices. Its members include the American University of Beirut, the American University in Paris, the American College of Greece, and Anatolia University, among others.

Joining this community is an important step for Hellenic American University, as it gives us the opportunity to work more closely with institutions that share our commitment to American higher education, learn from each other, and develop collaborations that can benefit our students and faculty.

We look forward to contributing to the work of the association and building strong and meaningful relationships.

In July this summer, students from Hellenic American University embarked on an enriching educational journey to Madrid, Spain, accompanied by their Spanish professor, Eduardo Lucena González. Hosted by Nebrija University, the week-long intensive program brought together learners of Spanish from various countries for an immersive program of language instruction and cultural engagement.

In addition to their classes, students explored Madrid's cultural and historical heritage through visits to some of the country's most celebrated landmarks and museums, including the Museo Nacional del Prado and the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. They discovered Spain's rich artistic traditions, sampled authentic Spanish cuisine, and experienced firsthand the vibrant atmosphere of one of Europe's most dynamic capitals.

A highlight of the program was the opportunity to study alongside students from around the world, including participants from the United States, Mexico, Thailand, and South Korea. The experience also included an excursion to the historic city of Toledo.

Students particularly appreciated the seamless integration of in-class instruction and cultural encounter.  As Maro Samara (BAELL ’28 ) commented, the trip was “an unforgettable chance to live the Spanish language outside the classroom. Professor Eduardo transferred the class in the streets of Madrid making it as interactive and intercultural it can be.” For Androniki Fili (BAELL ’26, MATLT ’27) it was, as she notes, “a reminder of why I chose to study languages in the first place: to understand people, embrace different cultures, and continue learning beyond the classroom. I couldn't have wished for a more memorable conclusion to my undergraduate years.”

The Madrid trip is the latest in a series of international field study opportunities for undergraduate students that the University’s faculty members and particularly its Director of Civic Engagement, Cameron Bell, have designed and led for undergraduate students. The projects reflect the University’s commitment to global engagement and experiential learning and its effort to provide students with unique opportunities to foster their intercultural skills and personal growth.

Previous trips include an immersive 5-day study program to Eqypt, in partnership with the cultural platform, Art d’Egypte, a 5-day seminar in Rome on “The Greco-Roman World: Ancient Rivals & Modern European Partners”, and a 4-day field study in Amman, Jordan, which included a service opportunity under the auspices of UNICEF in support of Palestinian and Syrian youths.

This article draws on material written by Androniki Fili.

 Photo: Hellenic American University students at Nebrija University in Madrid.

The Summer 2026 issue of Connect is now being emailed to University alumni and can be downloaded here. In this issue, we highlight several of last semester’s signature events and updates, including the successful 2026 Career Fair and alumni celebrations.

In her message to alumni, University President Dr. Themis Kaniklidou celebrates the accomplishments of the Class of 2026, welcomes the newest graduates into the alumni community, and highlights the University’s vision for expanding opportunities and maintaining excellence.

This issue’s Alumni Success Story features Sophia Florence Romanic, PhDLC ’26, who shares her inspiring journey from educator and researcher to international educational collaborator, highlighting how her doctoral studies at Hellenic American University have shaped her work in applied linguistics, English-medium instruction, and learning design.

Our Faculty Spotlight highlights Dr. Ioannis Petropoulos, adjunct faculty member and recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award for Academic Year 2025–2026.

Finally, as always, we share recent news of our faculty and fellow alumni accomplishments—from new publications and conference talks to career advancements.

Image: CONNECT ALUMNI Summer 2026

On Thursday, September 3, 2026, Hellenic American University welcomes Professor George P. Chrousos to its Athens campus (Hellenic American College). Professor Chrousos is Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics and Endocrinology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), a full member of the Academy of Athens, and Scientific Director of Hellenic American University’s M.S. in Stress and Health Management program.

Entitled “The Digital Revolution and the New Generation,” the lecture is the 4th event in the University’s Distinguished Lecture Series. It is organized by Hellenic American University/Hellenic American College and the Hellenic American Union.

The Distinguished Lecture Series brings together prominent thinkers, researchers, and public figures from a broad range of academic disciplines to share insights and experiences from their work and contribute to the discussion of issues of wider social significance. The series aims to enrich the student learning experience and foster dialogue within and beyond the academic community on contemporary social and cultural issues.

About the Lecture

The digital revolution is radically transforming the way young people think, learn, communicate, and perceive themselves and the world around them. Screens, social media, and constant digital stimulation have created a new psychobiological environment that profoundly affects the developing brain, the stress system, emotional maturation, and the social behavior of younger generations.

The lecture will explore the effects of digital life on the mental and physical health of children, adolescents, and young adults, with particular emphasis on chronic stress, loneliness, attention difficulties, sleep disorders, dependence on digital rewards, and the gradual erosion of experiential learning and human relationships. It will also examine the potential of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies as tools for creativity, knowledge, and progress, provided they are used with moderation, education, and human-centered wisdom.

The lecture seeks to shed light on one of the defining challenges of our time: how humanity can harness the digital revolution without losing the fundamental qualities of human nature—critical thinking, emotional intelligence, creativity, philosophical inquiry, and meaningful human connection.

Speaker Bio

Professor George P. Chrousos is an internationally distinguished physician-scientist whose pioneering research has advanced our understanding of the biology and medicine of stress and its effects on the human body at the behavioral, neuroendocrine, cellular, and molecular levels. He is a Professor and member of the Board of Trustees of Hellenic American University, as well as Scientific Director of the University’s M.S. in Stress and Health Management program.

He graduated as valedictorian from the School of Medicine of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and pursued postgraduate training in Pediatrics at New York University and in Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes at the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH).

From 1981 to 2001, he held a series of senior leadership positions at the U.S. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). In 2001, he was appointed Professor and Director of the First Department of Pediatrics at NKUA, where he also headed the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Diabetes. In 2018, he retired and was awarded the title of Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics and Endocrinology.

Since 2010, he has held the UNESCO Chair on Adolescent Health Care, and since 2017, he has served as Director of the University Research Institute of Maternal and Child Health and Precision Medicine at NKUA. He also holds appointments as Professor of Pediatrics and Professor of Physiology and Biophysics at Georgetown University. In February 2024, he was elected a full member of the Academy of Athens.

Event Information

Venue
Hellenic American College
22 Massalias Street, Athens
Hellenic American Union Theater, 2nd floor

Date and Time
Thursday, September 3, 2026 | 7:00 p.m.

Language
Greek

Registration (RSVP)
Registration through the official registration form is required.

Admission is free

Image: Professor George P. Chrousos

Our Study Abroad program had a remarkable year, welcoming more than 300 students from universities and educational institutions around the world for academic, cultural, and experiential learning opportunities in Athens and throughout Greece.

During the 2025–2026 academic year, Hellenic American University welcomed students and groups in Athens (through Hellenic American College) from Post University, Vishwaniketan Incubation Center, CUNY Queens College, Stetson University, Bauer College, Sacred Heart Academy High School, Albion College, the University of South Carolina Darla Moore School of Business, University of North Carolina Charlotte, Christopher Newport University, Sacred Heart University, University of Minnesota, University of New Hampshire, Texas Tech University, Plymouth State University, UMass Lowell, Southern New Hampshire University, Texas Leadership Program, Koç University in Istanbul, and Montclair University.

Through semester-long programs, term programs, faculty-led experiences, and customized travel courses, students had the opportunity to earn academic credits while immersing themselves in the history, culture, and beauty of Greece. From exploring ancient landmarks and cultural sites to engaging with local communities and experiencing everyday life in Athens, students discovered Greece as a dynamic and inspiring learning environment.

The year featured a wide variety of programs across disciplines, including business, service learning, history, theater, arts, and interdisciplinary courses. Each program connected classroom learning with meaningful experiences beyond the university, allowing students to gain new perspectives while building memories that will last a lifetime.

Students frequently described their time in Greece as a transformative experience:

“This was more than a class! It was an opportunity to learn through experiences, travel, and connections that I will never forget.”

“Greece became our classroom, and every visit, conversation, and discovery added something new to our learning experience.”

The continued growth of Hellenic American University’s Study Abroad Program reflects the University’s commitment to global education and experiential learning. With new programs, returning groups, and expanding opportunities ahead, we look forward to welcoming more students to Athens and helping them create their own stories of learning, discovery, and connection within the Hellenic American University community and throughout Greece.

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On June 25, 2026, Hellenic American University proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 at a commencement ceremony held at the Athens campus. More than 90 graduates were joined by classmates, faculty, families, and friends to mark this important milestone and celebrate years of dedication, perseverance, and academic achievement.

Members of the University's Board of Trustees attended the ceremony alongside President Themis Kaniklidou, who congratulated the graduates on their accomplishments and encouraged them to pursue their aspirations with confidence, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The ceremony was led by Provost Kalozoumis, who served as Master of Ceremonies and guided the audience through an inspiring celebration of the University's newest alumni.

A highlight of the ceremony was the conferral of an honorary degree upon Eftyhia Pylarinou-Piper in recognition of her outstanding contributions to business leadership, economic development, corporate governance, and service to the Greek American community. In her commencement address, Ms. Pylarinou encouraged graduates to embrace curiosity and resilience as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. Her inspiring message resonated with graduates and guests alike.

The graduates were also represented by student speakers who reflected on their academic journeys and the transformative impact of their University experience. Valedictorian Konstantia Galatianou (MAAL-TESOL '26) addressed the audience on behalf of the graduate class, while undergraduate representative Despoina Sofia Giagkoulovits (BAELL '26) spoke on behalf of the undergraduate class. Both delivered heartfelt and inspiring speeches, reflecting on the challenges they had overcome, the friendships they had formed, and the invaluable support they received from faculty, family, friends, and fellow students throughout their academic journey.

The ceremony concluded with the conferral of degrees as graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas and officially joined the University's global alumni community. Hellenic American University extends its warmest congratulations to the Class of 2026 and wishes its newest alumni every success in their future academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

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Hellenic American University has joined the Euromed University Initiative for Climate Action, coordinated by the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and the Mediterranean Universities Union (UNIMED), in signing the Girona Manifesto – a shared commitment by regional institutions of higher education to addressing climate and environmental change. University President Themis Kaniklidou was pleased to share the endorsement with UfM Secretary General Nasser Kamel amidst the proceedings of the 9th Mediterranean Forum Circle The Med, held in the port of Piraeus, Greece. 

The Euromed University Initiative for Climate Action unites research bodies in responding to the climate crisis through four common pillars of action. Collectively, these commitments enhance cooperation, expand climate education, empower student changemakers, encourage innovation across all signatories. The Mediterranean is a recognized climate hotspot, with temperatures warming 20 percent faster than the global average and requiring urgent action.

To this end, Hellenic American University offers a cluster of climate-related required and elective courses, such as Sustainable Community Development, International Service Learning, Developing the Global Citizen, and Sustainable Planet, among others, and service and experiential learning engagements with scientific NGOs. Student participation in conferences, fora, and environment-related capstone projects alongside faculty-led research in the EU-funded Horizon Europe Meta Cities Project further spotlight sustainability issue areas. The university remains committed to collaborating with education partners on interconnected challenges of climate and environmental change, and continues to support faculty exchanges and field studies in the Mediterranean region.

Photo (from left to right): Secretary General Kamel, Hellenic American University President Themis Kaniklidou, Culturvator Founder Abdel Ghaffar (Hellenic American University Education Partner 2024), and Hellenic American University Civic Engagement Director Cameron Bell. 

In February, Director of Civic Engagement, Cameron Bell represented us at the annual meeting of the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA) in Washington, D.C. The AIEA conference brings together leaders in international education to exchange ideas on global partnerships, student and faculty mobility, and innovative academic models.

Held under the theme “Leading the Way: Navigating Volatility and New Realities in International Education,” this year’s conference featured more than 100 workshops and roundtables. Topics ranged from responsible AI-driven strategies to expanding access for community college students, as well as navigating evolving visa and immigration policies.

Reflecting on the experience, Cameron noted:

“The AIEA was a rewarding opportunity to see many of our colleagues and institutional partners in one place. I was pleased to see widespread recognition of Greece’s new positioning in international higher education -- students are eager to come and faculty are keen to enhance courses with experiential learning opportunities.”

Following AIEA, Director of Global and Student Engagement Eleni Ypsilanti attended the Forum on Education Abroad in Nashville, Tennessee. The Forum is a global leader in setting professional standards for study abroad and promoting the long-term value of international education.

Eleni emphasized the importance of continued openness and support for international students:

“It has never been more important to welcome and support study abroad students. Greek and American students gain invaluable perspectives from learning side-by-side—both in the classroom and through field-based experiences.”

Image: International Education & Study Abroad at AIEA

The Board of Trustees of Hellenic American University has announced the appointment of Dr. Themis P. Kaniklidou as the institution’s new President. The announcement was made by the Board’s Chair, Jimmy Athanasopoulos, on February 26, 2026, and takes effect immediately.

“Dr. Kaniklidou assumes this role with the full confidence of the Board of Trustees,” said Mr. Athanasopoulos. “As we navigate a period of heightened global uncertainty and evolving challenges in higher education, she brings the administrative acumen and visionary leadership needed to guide the University forward, together with an unswerving commitment to our mission and to the enduring value of a liberal arts education.”

Among the new President’s immediate priorities are initiatives outlined in the University’s Five-Year Strategic Plan, including strengthening enrollment, enhancing educational effectiveness and student outcomes, and developing new academic partnerships.

Prior to her appointment, Dr. Kaniklidou—who earned her Ph.D. in Language and Communication from the University of Athens—served as the University’s Chief Academic Officer and Provost from 2020 to 2026. During her tenure, she led the institution’s successful interim accreditation in 2022, oversaw the expansion of its study-abroad programs, and helped lay the groundwork for greater academic and operational cohesion between the Athens and Nashua campuses. Earlier, she served as Associate Director of the University’s Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics program, which she helped establish and for which she assembled an internationally distinguished faculty of visiting scholars.

Reflecting on the appointment, Mr. Athanasopoulos noted that the Board sees Dr. Kaniklidou’s leadership as central to the University’s next phase of development. “We are moving forward with purpose,” he said. “By strengthening our governance structures and supporting President Kaniklidou’s leadership, we are positioning the University to serve its students and the broader academic community with distinction in the years ahead.”

The Winter 2025–2026 issue of Connect is now being emailed to University alumni and can be downloaded here. In this issue, we highlight last semester’s events and updates, including the successful annual alumni panel on The AI Effect — how Artificial Intelligence is transforming professional life across industries.

In her message to alumni, the provost emphasizes that Hellenic American University remains small by design yet globally impactful, offering a personalized liberal arts education that equips graduates with the critical-thinking, ethical, and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in a modern, AI-driven workforce.

This issue’s Alumni Success Story features Apostolos Plytas (PMBA ’13), who turned his diverse experiences, strategic mindset, and commitment to growth into a leadership role as Director of International Business Development at Elvida Foods, demonstrating how discipline, resilience, and continuous learning drive both personal and professional achievement.

Our Faculty Spotlight features Ms. Sofia Katsochi, an adjunct faculty member at the University.

Finally, as always, we share recent news of faculty and alumni accomplishments—from new publications and conference talks to career advancements.