The event titled “From the Footprints of Yesterday to the Vision of Tomorrow” was successfully held, highlighting the historical journey, contributions and future of the American Academy Larnaca. It gathered a large number of distinguished guests, alumni and friends of the school.
The event was opened with a greeting by the school’s Principal, Mrs. Margarita Constantinidou, who emphasised the importance of continuity, evolution and the preservation of the values that characterise the school.
The keynote speaker was Dr. Anastasia Yiangou, a historian and researcher at the Centre for Scientific Research, who presented education during the period of British rule from 1878 onwards. She discussed the differences between primary and secondary education, as well as the changes imposed on the curricula of secondary education in 1935, with a focus on strengthening the English language.
This was followed by a speech by Mr. Alexis Michaelides, who spoke about the founding of the school through the initiatives of Rev. Walter McCarroll, who had proposed the creation of a secondary school with a boarding facility as early as 1908. The school’s objectives included the teaching of the Bible, the English language and preparing students for careers in commerce and business, as well as for admission to the United States.
In 1919, William Wilbur Weir organised the curriculum at such a level that the last two years corresponded to university education, which contributed to the peak of the school’s reputation.
The development continued with the establishment of a girls’ secondary school in Nicosia, and the school life was enriched with newspapers, sports and excursions both within and outside Cyprus. The high academic standards, along with strict discipline, prepared many graduates for successful careers in business and government services.
Historical references were also made to the period of the Second World War, the EOKA and the socio-political conditions of the 1960s and 1970s, including the intercommunal conflicts, the events of 1963-67 and the dramatic developments of 1974.
Emotional personal testimonies were shared by alumni, such as journalist and lyricist Andreas Parashos, as well as the narrative of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot students coexisting in a difficult historical context. A special moment was the intervention of Turkish Cypriot alumnus Ahmet Kieni, who shared experiences from their school life and the events of 1974.
Ms. Anna Pittali, Commercial Director of Intergaz Ltd and alumna, spoke about the Academy’s decisive role in shaping its character, emphasising the values of discipline, respect and the sense of belonging.
Dr. Joseph Strouthos, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Academy Alumni Foundation, presented the present and future of the Academy, highlighting that it is a dynamic community with 1,251 students and 175 employees. He made particular reference to the school’s governance, the Alumni Foundation (established in 1973), its financial stability and the strategic master plan, guided by the motto “To Grow and To Serve.”
The event concluded with a musical programme by former student Mr. Stavros Sideras, which delighted the audience, followed by the presentation of commemorative plaques to the participants.
The evening closed with a reception, in a warm and emotional atmosphere.
