The presentation was a part of the opening of the International Conference with the theme: "US-Greek Policies in Europe and the Mediterranean”

The Conference started with the speeches by Konstantinos Mazarakis – Ainian General Director of the Foundation, the Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Mr. Michael Sfakianakis and the American Ambassador to Greece George J. Tsunis.

The Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michael Sfakianakis referred to extroversion and international orientation, as a dominant strategic choice of the University of Piraeus. He also emphasized that an equally top priority is the promotion of inter-university collaborations, through International Agreements with distinguished universities abroad, a constant focus on the development of programs and research collaborations, for the benefit of both the academic community and students. Addressing the new students, he noted that the Graduate Studies Program they have chosen is unique in Greece and opens up multifaceted professional perspectives.
Ambassador George J. Tsunis highlighted the values of morality and courage, which characterize Greece. The Greeks, he emphasized, honor their place in History, despite the great cost they paid, defending their values. Greece is the stabilizing factor in a geopolitical position, which often faces critical situations, such as the current period.
Carolyn Kissane, NYU - Associate Dean and Clinical Professor NYU Centre for Global Affairs, in turn welcomed the new students and thanked the professors from both sides of the Atlantic participating in the PMS, which ultimately aims to make this world better for people.
The President of the Department of International and European Studies, Professor Aristotelis Tziampiris presented the MSc "American Studies: Politics, Strategy and Economics", its evolution since its foundation and highlighted its importance for diplomacy as well as for the relations of the two countries.
Afterwards, the Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michael Sfakianakis presented the Ambassador George J. Tsunis with an honorary plaque and thanked him for his substantial contribution to the successful completion of collaborations with outstanding US Universities.The Vice-Rector for Academic, Administrative and Student Affairs Prof. Spyridon Roukanas presented an honorary plaque to Sylvia Maier, Academic Director and Clinical Professor, NYU Center for Global Affairs and the Chair of the Department of International and European Studies, Professor Aristotelis Tziampiris respectively to Carolyn Kissane, NYU - Associate Dean and Clinical Professor NYU Center for Global Affairs, for her support in the Graduate Program.
The ceremony was coordinated by Dr. Irini Mamakou of the University of Piraeus.