Perhaps you’ve heard the motto of The American College of Greece. It is “Not to be Served but to Serve”. This embodies the college’s mission.
The American College of Greece in Athens stands as the oldest American-accredited college in Europe. It is a non-profit institution. Founded in 1875 in Smyrna, now Izmir Turkey, it began as a school for girls. American missionaries of the United Church of Christ established it.
After the Greco-Turkish War and population exchange, The American College of Greece relocated to Athens in 1923. In 1932, it became co-educational. It officially adopted the name The American College of Greece in 1962. Eleftherios Venizelos invited the college to relocate to Hellenikon after the loss of Asia Minor.
During the Axis occupation, the college served as a hospital under German command. Post-war, it reopened in Hellenikon. It remained there until moving to its current campus in Agia Paraskevi. This Athens suburb has been its home ever since.
Today, The American College of Greece has three academic divisions. These are Deree, Alba Graduate Business School, and Pierce. Deree offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Alba focuses on graduate business studies. Pierce provides secondary education.
Pierce, like the college itself, started in Smyrna in 1875. Initially, it was in Palaio Faliro. Later, it moved to Elliniko. In 1963, it found its place in Agia Paraskevi. It remained a school for girls until 1982. A new East Campus opened in Spata in 2022. It now houses Pre-K to 12th grade.
Deree is named after benefactor Socrates Derehanis. It offers many undergraduate programs in various fields. The Graduate School provides master’s programs. The Open University UK accredits Deree’s degrees.
Alba Graduate Business School was founded in 1992. It was a joint effort of the Federation of Greek Industries and the Hellenic Management Association. Alba merged with The American College of Greece in 2011. It offers MSc programs, MBAs and executive MBAs.
The American College of Greece is committed to internationalization. Students come from over 70 countries. The college encourages cultural understanding. The Philoxenia Program pairs Greek students with international students. This fosters friendships and cultural exchange.
The Financial Assistance Program at The American College of Greece offers aid based on need and academic achievement. The college also provides career counseling and housing assistance. The American College of Greece has a strong focus on student support.
As you leave The American College of Greece remember its long history. From its beginnings in Smyrna to its current place in Athens. The American College of Greece has impacted countless lives. It continues to serve.