The Future Starts Now: Celebrating Our 2025 Graduates

Yesterday, June 27, 2025, The American College of Greece proudly held the commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2025 from Alba Graduate Business School and the Deree School of Graduate and Professional Education.


This year’s ceremony held special significance, as it coincided with ACG’s 150th anniversary since its founding in Smyrna in 1875. Marking a century and a half of academic excellence and impact, the celebration honored not only the achievements of the graduating class, but also ACG’s enduring legacy in shaping the future of higher education in Greece and beyond.


The ceremony opened with welcoming remarks by Dr. David G. Horner, President of The American College of Greece: "This evening’s ceremony is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of our founding in Smyrna in 1875, and as I prepare to retire after 17 years as president of The American College of Greece. Over these years, despite the challenges of economic crisis and a global pandemic, ACG has grown in size, quality, and impact. Deree undergraduate enrollment has doubled, and our student body now reflects an extraordinary mix of learners from Greece and around the world, including nearly 1,000 Parallel Study students from Greek public universities and more than 1,300 study abroad students from 257 international institutions. As I preside over my final Deree Commencement, I do so with deep pride in our graduates and unwavering confidence in their ability to lead, serve, and inspire in the years to come.’’

George Kottis,recipient of the 2025 Alba Highest Achievement Award and Master of Science in Finance graduate, delivered a heartfelt speech highlighting the deep influence his education at Alba has had. He stressed how critical thinking, personal development, and social responsibility have been central to his academic experience.
Our time at Alba has been a journey of both academic and personal growth. We faced challenges but developed critical thinking and soft skills essential for today’s changing world. My Master’s in Finance experience was transformative, thanks to Alba’s strong academics, exceptional faculty, and practical approach—helping me advance my career. Success requires dedication and resilience. I’m grateful to the faculty, especially Dr. Tzioumis, and my fellow graduates. What we’ve achieved will shape our futures. Let’s keep learning and moving forward.

Our graduates spoke from the heart, sharing words that inspired and moved us. Watching them thrive and prepare for what’s next was truly unforgettable.

Angelos Bollas, recipient of the 2025 Deree Highest Achievement Award and graduate of the MA in Learning Design and Technology, was unable to attend the ceremony. Remarks on behalf of the Deree graduate class were delivered by Christoforos Kapsalis, graduate of the MS in Data Science.

Christoforos Kapsalis, Deree Graduate, MS in Data Science, addressed:
Graduate study reshaped us beyond academics, uniting a global community through shared challenges and growth. This transformation is just one of many in life. Some of us will pivot careers, others deepen paths; many are still figuring things out—and that’s okay. Let’s embrace the journey, keep learning, and carry this experience forward. Thanks to all who supported us.

The new graduates join an extended family of over 69,000 ACG alumni from Greece and abroad who carve their bright futureproof career paths. Equipped with the essential skills to spearhead an entrepreneurial, innovative and sustainable future, our 433 master’s degree graduates from 30 countries were awarded degrees in Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science (MSc), and Master of Arts (MA).

The highlight of the night was the breathtaking drone show up in the night sky, where glowing messages spelled out “We are proud of you” and “150 Years of The American College of Greece,” creating a moving tribute that celebrated our graduates and honored our schools proud legacy.

To the Graduates of 2025: Wishing you ongoing success and meaningful personal development. Continue to explore with curiosity, uphold your social responsibilities, and always find ways to support your communities. Heartfelt congratulations on your outstanding accomplishments!