NEW YORK, NY –
The American School of Classical Studies at Athens announced the tremendous success of its Annual Gala, held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Gotham Hall in New York City. Nearly 400 distinguished guests gathered for an extraordinary evening celebrating the rich legacy of Greek culture, scholarship, and service, as the School bestowed the Gennadius Prize upon the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople.
This year’s Gala stood as a testament to the enduring power of Hellenism and the far-reaching impact of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The event brought together leaders from the academic, diplomatic, religious, and philanthropic communities for a celebration marked by elegance, intellectual depth, and heartfelt admiration. Among them, Metropolitan Apostolos, Geron of Derki, Consul General of Greece, Ifigenia Kanara and L-100 Executive Director, Paulette Poulos.
A highlight of the evening was the premiere of Guardians of Hellenism: The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, a compelling new short film that includes a recent interview with His All -Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. The film offers a powerful portrait of the Patriarchate’s enduring global influence and its vital role in the preservation and promotion of Greek heritage and culture. The award was accepted on his behalf by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, who offered thoughtful remarks underscoring the significance of the moment.
“First and foremost, the Ecumenical Patriarchate has been the guardian and protector of the vast cultural and linguistic legacy of Hellenism throughout the centuries”, stated the Archbishop, adding that “In whatever empire the Mother Church found Herself, the knowledge of the ages was preserved for the generations to come. To this day, Greek is the official language of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the legacies of Hellenism in all their variety find expression in the philosophical and theological workings of the Church”.
“This award pays tribute to an institution whose moral and intellectual authority has preserved the Greek spirit through every era of history” stated George Orfanakos, Executive Director of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, reflecting on the evening. “It is a privilege to honor the Ecumenical Patriarchate for its profound contributions to the continuity of Hellenic civilization”, he added.
On her part, Maria Georgopoulou, Director of the Gennadius Library, remarked, “The Gennadius Prize recognizes a legacy of remarkable spiritual and cultural leadership. The Ecumenical Patriarchate has stood for centuries as a guardian of learning and a beacon of Hellenism”.
The American School extended its heartfelt appreciation to the event’s generous sponsors, loyal supporters, and the many friends of the School whose participation made the evening such a resounding success.
