Ecumenical Patriarchate Honored with Gennadius Prize at Gala
► Browse the Gala 2025 Photo Gallery
On Thursday, May 8, 2025, the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ hosted its ninth annual Gala. 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.
Vice Chair of the Board of Overseers Kathryn Yatrakis, Director of the Gennadius Library, Maria Georgopoulou, Chairman of the Board of Overseers, Andreas Zombanakis, Maria Mavroudi, Director of the American School, Bonna D. Wescoat, President of the Board of Trustees, William T. Loomis.
The Ï㽶ÊÓƵ is proud to announce 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.
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.
Reflecting on the evening, George Orfanakos, Executive Director of the Ï㽶ÊÓƵ, stated, “This award pays tribute to an institution whose moral and intellectual authority has preserved the Greek spirit through every era of history. It is a privilege to honor the Ecumenical Patriarchate for its profound contributions to the continuity of Hellenic civilization.”
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 extends 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.
Please have a look at the Photo Gallery to see gala guests enjoying the festivities and enjoy our new film:
Save the Date
Please save the date for next year’s Gala on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Gotham Hall in New York City.
| The American School's Gala at Gotham Hall. |
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