During the ACS Athens Colloquium II, “From Inquiry to Impact: A Celebration of Learning in Action,” (April 29-30, 2026) we witnessed this truth come alive in the most inspiring way. Over the course of two unforgettable days, 60 student volunteers from the Middle School and Academy dedicated their time, energy, and passion to supporting an event that occurs only once every decade.

Led by the vision and leadership of ACS Athens President Dr. Peggy Pelonis, these students became the heartbeat of the Colloquium II. They welcomed guests with warmth, supported and facilitated 85 presentations taking place all around the campus, guided campus tours, assisted presenters, and represented ACS Athens with professionalism, pride, and genuine enthusiasm. Every smile, every act of support, and every interaction reflected the values that define our community.

Among these volunteers, 13 students also stepped forward as presenters — balancing leadership, scholarship, and service with remarkable maturity. Particularly meaningful was the role of the ACS Athens Global Alumni Student Team, whose members serve as the bridge between generations of ACS’ers. They welcomed alumni back to campus and worked closely with the ACS Athens Alumni Affairs office to strengthen the lifelong connection between our students and our alumni.

A special thank you goes to the leading members of the ACS Athens Global Alumni Student team:  Sotiris A., Michael C., Oskar G., Amaryllis C., and Daphne R.,  as well as supporting members Rea T., Konstantinos K., Karl C., Aphrodite T., and Themis C. Their dedication and spirit embody what it means to be part of the ACS Athens family.

The importance of 2026 Colloquium II

The resounding success of the Colloquium II couldn’t be better expressed than by the words of the MSA visiting team member Rose Puffer, who recognized ACS Athens as “an Exemplar School by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges (MSA), affirming its position at the forefront of innovative, student-centered education.” President Pelonis in her message to the global alumni said: “I extend my deepest appreciation to our alumni around the world.  Your continued support, connection, and belief in our mission strengthen our community in meaningful ways. Thank you for standing by us and carrying the values of ACS Athens in all that you do. Claim this legacy as your own, because your achievements, you impact, and who you have become are a powerful reflection of what we stand for, and a source of pride for us all.”

The presence of our alumni community during the Colloquium II was powerful. Of the 85 presentations held over the two days, 25 were delivered by alumni, faculty, and staff, while 4 of the 13 student presentations were delivered by members of the Global Alumni Student Team. This strong alumni participation reminded all of us that the ACS Athens journey does not end at graduation; it evolves into a lifelong commitment to learning, mentorship, leadership, and giving back.

Our students look up to our alumni not only as successful professionals but as role models who continue to carry the values of ACS Athens into the world. In many ways, our student volunteers are the future of this alumni community,  future leaders, ambassadors, mentors, and conscious global citizens who will one day inspire the next generation in return.

To our alumni community: thank you for continuing to stand beside your school and our students. Your presence, encouragement, and support create a lasting impact far beyond the classroom.

We are proud of our student volunteers! We are proud of our alumni community!
And above all, we are proud to be “ACS’ers”— connected through pride, empathy, service, lifelong learning, and a shared commitment to Conscious Global Citizenship.

Student Recognition

With gratitude, we recognize all ACS Athens student volunteers whose dedication and spirit contributed to the success of the ACS Athens Colloquium II! Thank you for representing ACS Athens with excellence, kindness, professionalism, and pride. You are the future leaders of our community, and your contribution made this historic event truly memorable!