Hellenic College Inc.

Hellenic College Inc., also known as Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, is a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education in an Orthodox Christian environment. It is located in Brookline, Massachusetts, and serves as a comprehensive institution offering both undergraduate studies at Hellenic College and graduate theological education through Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology.

Mission

The mission of Hellenic College Inc. is to educate men and women for service to both the Church and society within the context of Orthodox Christian faith. It aims to foster intellectual, spiritual, and moral growth through academic programs and community engagement.

History

Founded in 1937 by Archbishop (later Ecumenical Patriarch) Athenagoras and Bishop (later Archbishop) Athenagoras Cavadas, the institution initially operated as the Greek Archdiocese Institute. Over time, it evolved to become Holy Cross and was incorporated as Hellenic College Inc. in 1968, including both Hellenic College and Holy Cross School of Theology. The institution received its first accreditation in 1970, with full accreditation granted in 1978.

Programs and Academics

Hellenic College offers undergraduate programs in Liberal Arts and Humanities, Religious Studies, Literature, Classics, Psychology and Human Development, and Business Management. Holy Cross focuses on graduate-level theological studies, preparing students for the priesthood or lay leadership roles within the Orthodox Church.

Student Life and Community

The institution is known for its small student body, fostering close relationships between students and faculty. It offers a unique blend of spiritual growth and academic rigor, with daily worship services in the Holy Cross Chapel at the heart of its campus.

Notable Achievements

Hellenic College Inc. is the only fully accredited Orthodox Christian college, seminary, and graduate school of theology in the Western Hemisphere. It has a diverse student body from around the world and actively collaborates with other Orthodox institutions and ministries.

Governance

The organization is part of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and is overseen by a board that includes prominent figures from the Archdiocese, such as His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America.

Financial Aid and Cost

The institution offers financial aid to its students, with a significant portion of students receiving assistance. The net cost after financial aid averages around $30,000 per year.

Cultural and Community Engagement

Hellenic College encourages students to engage with the broader cultural life of Boston and contribute to Orthodox Christian communities worldwide. It maintains strong ties with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and supports various educational and spiritual initiatives.