Saint Basil Academy Celebrates 78th Commencement with Archbishop Elpidophoros Presiding

Photo: Orthodox Observer/Dimitrios Panagos

NEW YORK — On Saturday, June 7, 2025, Saint Basil Academy (SBA) in Garrison, New York, held its 78th Annual Commencement Exercises, celebrating the achievements of seven students across its youth and family programs. 

The event, attended by clergy, dignitaries, alumni, and supporters, was a moving tribute to the growth and resilience of the children nurtured by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America’s national philanthropic institution.

Presiding over the ceremony was His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, who also serves as Chairman of the SBA Board of Trustees. In his address, he encouraged graduates to carry forward the spiritual and moral lessons learned at SBA, including love, forgiveness, and kindness – qualities he described as “eternal.”

"[Saint Basil] saw the value of learning, wherever the knowledge came from, and he increased his own capacity to embody God in every aspect of his life,” he was quoted as saying by the Orthodox Observer. “I pray that you will take from what you have learned here at Saint Basil Academy, and you will apply it in your lives for the rest of your lives. You have learned what it is to love and to be loved; to forgive and to be forgiven, to be kind and to receive kindness.”

The celebration featured student performances, reflections, and award presentations, highlighting the personal and academic progress of each child. Speakers included Mistress of Ceremonies Despina Koulianos, SBA Board President Dr. Steven Gounardes, Consul General of Greece Iphigenia Kanara, Philoptochos representative Eleni Constantinides, alumnus Eliud Suarez, and SBA Executive Director Fr. Constantine L. Sitaras.

Fr. Sitaras emphasized that the day honored more than academic success – it celebrated the life journeys of all the children at the Academy. 

“We are so very proud of each and every one of them,” he said, recognizing graduates from kindergarten to high school. “Each young person is celebrated.”

Previously, UOJ reported on Fr. Gregory Stamkopoulos being appointed Director of Greek Education for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

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