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.
Read also
Petition Warns Canada’s Hate Speech Law Could Criminalize Scripture
Thousands of Canadians have signed a petition urging the Liberal government to drop proposed hate-speech changes that critics warn could criminalize quoting the Bible and other religious texts.
JD Vance: Criticizing Israel Is Not Antisemitism
Vice President JD Vance said opposing Israeli policies is not the same as antisemitism, sparking debate over where criticism of Israel ends and hatred of Jews begins.
First Orthodox Prayer Book Published in Indonesian Language
The first Orthodox prayer book in Indonesian has been published and presented in Bekasi, providing local faithful and new converts with a vital resource for prayer and liturgical life.
OCA Joins Legal Challenge to Illinois Abortion Referral Law
Amicus brief argues mandate violates religious freedom and compels pro-life providers to contradict their faith.
EXCLUSIVE: Leaked Ukrainian Memo Says Religious Freedom is ‘Achilles Heel’
In an emergency strategy meeting held in response to the Society of St. John's Day of Action, D.C.-based Ukrainian lobbyists acknowledged the weight of the religious freedom issue as it pertains to the Ukrainian government’s public perception.
Historic $2.9 Million Bequest Strengthens Greek Orthodox Foundation
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation has received a record $2.9 million bequest from the late Andy Efthim, a devoted layman whose faith-filled generosity will support the Church’s mission for generations.