Athens College
Athens College was founded in 1925 by enlightened Greeks, led by Emmanuel Benakis and Stephanos Delta, with the support of prominent American philhellenes, such as Edward Capps, Bert Hodge Hill, Charles Howland, and others. The College belongs to the Hellenic-American Educational Foundation, a not-for-profit organization.
The Hellenic-American Educational Foundation (HAEF) is governed by a Board of Directors in Athens, which collaborates with the Board of Trustees in New York (Board of Trustees of Athens College in Greece) in order to promote the Foundation’s goals. Members of both Boards, many of whom are alumni, are distinguished professionals who volunteer their services.
The Hellenic-American Educational Foundation includes Athens College (Elementary–Junior High–High Schools), Psychico College (Elementary–Junior High–High Schools-IB DP) and “John M. Carras” Kindergarten, collectively referred to as “Athens College,” as well as the Adult Education Programs, the Conservatory, the Summer and Special Programs and the Foreign Languages Center.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Hellenic-American Educational Foundation is to contribute to society as a beacon for Greek education, developing responsible global citizens and future leaders, inspired by Hellenic heritage and both American and European liberal values. Its aim is to provide the essence of education by helping each individual to achieve their highest potential and unique aspirations, instilling in them respect for themselves and others, cultivating a sense of civic duty, and exemplifying the highest ethical standards.
Our aim, through academic excellence and critical thinking, is to inspire and transform students into graduates distinguished by creativity, teamwork, and a spirit of discovery.
What Makes Athens College Distinct?
Balanced Excellence: Rrigorous academics are enriched by athletics, arts, extracurricular activities, community service and more that provide the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, creativity and responsible engagement with the world.
Our Students: Motivated, university-bound students who thrive in an environment that both challenges and supports. We’re committed to expanding our Scholarship Program to create an increasingly diverse community of learners.
Our Heritage: Established by enlightened innovators in 1925, the founders’ vision was to establish a school of excellence that served students within the Greek educational system, but that enhanced each individual’s holistic development. Then, as now, emphasis was given to a student-centered approach to learning. From its beginning, the College was also supported by forward-thinking Americans. Today it continues to incorporate the best of both countries through its educational programs, as well as through its leadership and governance practices.
Purposeful Engagement with the World: Greece – and the world – needs thoughtful, innovative, collaborative problem-solvers. Everything a student does at Athens College is meant to help them discover their interests and talents — as well as their responsibilities. Students may choose from hundreds of opportunities to both lead and partner in community engagement projects locally and abroad.
Our Community: Wherever you are in the world, alumni, parents and friends of Athens College share a special bond. The Athens College Board of Trustees seeks to reach out and mobilize the College’s U.S. based constituents in support of its educational mission.