Maria West, a missionary working in different parts of Turkey, moved to Smyrna and established the American College for Girls. She acquired a small government building called a konak in Smyrna’s Armenian quarter and offered employment to two teachers: an Armenian named Miss Nectar der Toretiyan and a Scottish lady. Miss Salmond. It proved a triumphant success from the outset. By 1878, the initial intake of seven children quickly rose to 50. To a great extent, the success was due to Miss West’s charismatic personality.

Reverend Marcellus Bowen succeeded Maria West in the mission and established two separate educational institutions, one for boys and one for girls

Miss Lord brought to the school the Wellesley motto: Non ministrari sed ministrare—Not to be served but to serve. This was to become the institution's guiding principle and one that endures to this day.

Emily McCallum worked tirelessly and became a well-loved figure, “ruling over our school in diligence and love,” according to one former pupil, “making every duty for us a happy privilege." The greatest moment of triumph came in 1921 when McCallum, aided by the energetic Miss Mills—managed to get the Ameri-Collegiate Institute incorporated as a college under the laws of Massachusetts. Henceforth, it was to offer four-year courses in higher education.

Through the turmoil of war and displacement, Miss Minnie Mills stood as a beacon of resilience, guiding The American College of Greece through one of its most challenging transitions. A revered leader, she oversaw the school’s rebirth in Athens after the Great Fire of Smyrna, ensuring that education would not falter in the face of adversity. Under her leadership, the institution reopened in Old Phaleron as The American Junior College for Girls, laying the foundation for a new era of learning and opportunity.

Miss Krokodilou was more than an educator—she was the very spirit of The American College of Greece. A devoted mentor, she shaped generations with wisdom, compassion, and unwavering dedication. From her early days at the American College in Constantinople to her transformative role as Dean of Students at the College Gymnasium (Kosmitor) from 1925 to 1967, she left an indelible mark on our institution. 

In post-war Greece, Dr. Kathryn McElroy transformed ACG’s curriculum to meet the needs of a changing society. She introduced business, English, and social work programs, empowering women with the skills to build independent futures.

As ACG’s first official president, Helen Nichol brought vision and structure to the college. She established a management board in Athens, ensuring smoother operations, and partnered with the Fulbright Foundation to bring educators from the U.S. and provide scholarships for students in need.

Faced with a crisis in 1958, President Blakney led the search for a new home after the government expropriated the college’s land to extend the facilities of Helleniko International Airport. After seven rejected sites, he saw potential in Aghia Paraskevi—despite its challenges. His determination secured the land that would become ACG’s permanent home, growing from 35 to over 60 acres.

With determination and vision, President Margaret Steward led the transformation of ACG’s new campus, enlisting renowned architect Constantine Doxiades to design its future. Despite financial and logistical challenges, her leadership secured government support and vital U.S. funding. Under her tenure, Pierce College gained U.S. incorporation and Greek government recognition, elevating its prestige and securing benefits for faculty and staff.

Under Dr. Louis Vrettos’ leadership, ACG experienced remarkable growth, with undergraduate enrollment soaring in 1971, strengthening both confidence and finances. This momentum continued in 1973 when Greek-American benefactor William S. Deree made a transformative donation, securing the college’s future. In his honor, the undergraduate division was renamed Deree College.

Under President John S. Bailey’s 33-year leadership, The American College of Greece experienced unprecedented expansion, impact, and global recognition. Enrollment surged, salaries increased, and an ambitious building program transformed the campus. In 1976, the Deree College Library was established with USAID support, growing from 20,000 to over 158,000 volumes today. A state-of-the-art gym followed in 1977, and by 1979, the institution adopted the name The American College of Greece, uniting its divisions under a shared vision.

For 42 years, Olga E. Julius served as the Principal of Pierce, guiding the school with vision and dedication. A significant milestone came in 1984 when Pierce became co-educational, aligning with new government legislation.