The event was organised as a joint initiative of the President of the Hellenic Parliament and the Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michael Sfakianakis, highlighting the significance of the Greek language as a universal cultural asset and the dynamic presence of Hellenism in the diaspora.
The Archimedean Academy constitutes an international model of public education. As of 2025, it ranks as the top high school in Miami-Dade County and 49th among 22,000 schools across the United States. With a student body composed of 95% American students, the school achieves a unique accomplishment: it teaches Mathematics and Philosophy in the Greek language, bridging classical Greek thought with contemporary academic excellence.
Its educational programme spans all levels, from pre-kindergarten to high school, with emphasis on analytical thinking. At the same time, it operates tuition-free and relies on the voluntary contribution of its teaching staff, making it an authentic and selfless “ambassador” of the Greek spirit.
Of particular importance is the Academy’s initiative to obtain approval from the College Board for the inclusion of the Greek language in the Advanced Placement (AP) programme, which offers university-level courses to high school students aspiring to attend leading universities. Furthermore, beginning in the next academic year, a second school is scheduled to operate in North Miami.
Mr. Philippos Fortomas, President of the Special Permanent Committee on the Greek Diaspora, moderated the event and underscored the importance of the Greek language as a global cultural legacy.
The President of the Hellenic Parliament, Nikitas Kaklamanis, praised the efforts that led to the recognition of 9 February as World Greek Language Day by the 43rd General Conference of UNESCO, while also highlighting the work of the founders of the Archimedean Academy. As he characteristically stated: “Every time a child speaks, thinks, and dreams in Greek, our small homeland — in Seferis’ words — grows and extends across the entire world.”
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Georgios Gerapetritis, emphasised the strategic importance of Greek-language education abroad, noting that it produces a multiplier effect compared to any other form of diplomacy. He further referred to the significance of the Greek diaspora as an invaluable national asset.
The Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michael Sfakianakis, described the work of the honourees as an act of national responsibility and a shining example of how Greece can play a leading role on the international academic stage through its language and education.
During the ceremony, the Hellenic Parliament presented a silver medal, parchment to the honourees, the University of Piraeus awarded an honorary commendation, and the 111th Conference of Rectors and Administrative Board Presidents of Greek Higher Educational Institutions offered a commemorative plaque to:
Dr. Georgios Kafkoulis (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer)
Alekos Charalambidis (Chairman of the Board & Founding Member)
Lambros Katsoufis (Vice-Chairman & Secretary of the Board)
Dimitrios Dimopoulos (Director of Middle and High Schools)
Dimitrios Bardoutsos (Administrative Executive)
Throughout the event, video presentations highlighted the vibrant connection between the students of the Archimedean Academy and the Greek language and culture, reaffirming that Hellenism continues to radiate globally through education.
The ceremony is available on the official YouTube channel of the University of Piraeus: https://youtu.be/Jcgi6aiNhLg