With a strong focus on promoting the Greek language and cultural identity through diaspora media, the 11th International Summer University concluded with resounding success in Boston.
The initiative, a collaboration between the University of Ioannina and the Maliotis Cultural Center, underscored its global scope by welcoming diverse voices worldwide. This year focused on diaspora media’s role in preserving Greek language and identity, with the free Summer University attracting participants from five continents.
Among the key outcomes was the proposal to establish a specialized training program for diaspora journalists and media professionals, aimed at elevating the standards of Greek-language journalism. The initiative was met with immediate support: Greece’s General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, pledged its backing by incorporating the project into its 2024–2027 strategic plan.
The program offered a diverse academic and cultural lineup, including panels, workshops, keynotes, and an exhibition of political cartoons by top Greek artists. Highlights included last year’s event proceedings, “Spreading the Greek Linguistic Heritage,” officially presented at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.
Archbishop Elpidophoros of America formally addressed the event and presented participants with certificates of completion.
A Collaborative and Widely Supported Initiative
Ηeld under the auspices of the Hellenic Parliament and the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy, the 11th International Summer University was backed by a wide array of academic and institutional partners, including the Department of Greek Education of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, the Center for Hellenic Studies at the University of Chicago, and the Hellenic Association of Political Scientists.
New York Office of the University of Ioannina
After the Summer University concluded, the University of Ioannina signed a cooperation agreement with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America to open an International Office in New York. Hosted at the Archdiocese, the office will link the University with U.S. educational institutions.
