It is my great pleasure to welcome to Boston all participants of the “11th International Summer University ‘Greek Language, Culture and Media’” and to extend to you my warmest congratulations for your initiative to organize it once more here in beautiful New England, home of an incredible and strong-rooted Greek-American community that inspires all.

This year’s “International Summer University” is under the auspices of the Hellenic Parliament and is taking place with the support of the General Secretariat for Greeks abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a good reason, since this time is focusing on the indispensable role of our diaspora mass media in promoting the Greek language and culture. In this context, many and noteworthy journalists, academics, intellectuals and prominent representatives of Greek media from across the globe will have an opportunity to meet in person, exchanging views and best practices, working together for the advancement of our common goals.

Having in mind that for the last decade this significant program has continuously contributed to the exploration of synergies in education and culture, its inclusion in “the Strategic Plan for the Hellenism abroad (2024-2027)” of the Greek MFA came to no surprise. Concluding, allow me to express my sincere appreciation to the Maliotis Cultural Center, a beacon of Greek culture in Boston, for graciously hosting this important event and to the University of Ioannina for nurturing and supporting this pioneer and successful program.