On Saturday, September 27, The American College of Greece celebrated a historic milestone—150 years of shaping minds, advancing knowledge, and preparing leaders who make meaningful contributions to society. The day also marked the inauguration of Dr. Edward C. Wingenbach as the College’s 8th President, signaling the beginning of a bold new chapter in ACG’s distinguished legacy.
The celebration reflected the enduring pillars that define ACG’s mission: progress, perseverance, and purpose. Since its founding in Smyrna in 1875, ACG has continually evolved—overcoming challenges, embracing change, and remaining steadfast in its commitment to serve society through education.
Guided by the motto “Non ministrari sed ministrare”—to serve, not to be served—the College has empowered generations of leaders to create impact in Greece and around the world. For 150 years, ACG has championed the transformative power of learning—expanding intellectual horizons, pioneering bold initiatives, and preparing graduates to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Wingenbach highlighted ACG’s unique educational continuum—Pierce, Deree, and Alba—as a model that cultivates leaders equipped to cross intellectual, cultural, and geographic boundaries.
“We gather at an institution that has re-imagined the inheritance of liberal education: an education that develops people before professions, cultivates judgment before jargon, and prepares graduates not only to get a first job, but to invent their fifth,” he noted.
The day began with a distinguished academic procession, followed by a retrospective presentation on ACG’s 150-year journey. Acclaimed actress and producer Katia Dandoulaki (Pierce ’65) led the audience through defining milestones, underscoring the College’s lasting impact on education and society.
Dr. Wingenbach’s vision for the future centers on student-centered, transdisciplinary learning; aligning education with societal needs; expanding access and scholarships; fostering sustainability and the arts; and deepening international engagement.
“Let’s honor our 150 years not merely by looking back at them, but by using them as a platform to leap forward—together,” he affirmed.
The celebration concluded with the Pierce Choir’s performance of the College’s Alma Mater and a reception for guests, closing a day that honored ACG’s legacy of excellence, innovation, and leadership.
With Dr. Wingenbach at the helm, ACG—and by extension, Alba Graduate Business School—enters a new era of opportunity. Together, they will continue to advance transformative education that blends academic rigor with real-world relevance, empowering graduates to lead with purpose, integrity, and global perspective.
“We will show how Greece’s heritage can power Greece’s future; how American liberal education can thrive on Greek soil; how a college, a school, and a business institute together can serve a nation by serving its students exceedingly well,” Dr. Wingenbach concluded.
Building on 150 years of progress, ACG now looks ahead—strengthening its role as a hub of opportunity and transformation, where knowledge meets purpose and education inspires lasting change.
