ACS Athens Middle School student Olianna Dimitropoulou was recently chosen by NESA for the Stanley/Luke Hansen Award for her commitment to service at ACS Athens and in her community. This is a highly competitive award presented to three Middle School students of NESA member schools. In addition to the recognition, Olianna will receive $1000 as a top award recipient.

Ms. Evi Evloyias, ACS Athens' NESA Wider Circle Representative, coordinated the entire process. Ms. Rebecca Meyer, Mr. Stelios Kalogridakis, and the Middle School faculty have worked and supported their students, especially in community service projects. It should be noted that Olianna had applied in the past for this recognition, but was not chosen. Instead of giving up, she expanded on her service, improved her application, and she managed to finally get it! That's the determination, persistence, and resilience that ACS Athens inspires and celebrates!

The Executive Director of NESA, Maddy Hewitt, wrote to Olianna: "On behalf of the Selection Committee that has been working to choose the recipients of this year’s "Stanley Haas/Luke Hansen Award,” I am delighted to inform you that you have been selected as one of this year’s three winners. The Committee had a tough task determining who would emerge as the award recipients: the pool of candidates from the NESA region was outstanding, despite the competitive application process. However, as difficult as the challenge was, our committee has made their selection. You have the honor of being one of this year’s awardees. The award of $1,000 will be sent to you soon; we know you will put it to good use, both for yourself and for others. Good luck with all your future endeavors. You have much to offer the world, and NESA is thrilled to play a part in recognizing your achievements."