Inauguration of a new school unit of the Leonine of Nea Smyrni

The new school unit of the Leonine of Nea Smyrni was inaugurated on 25 September 2021: the Nursery School “Diamantideio”, a name given because of the considerable sum of money donated by the former student and great benefactor of our Marist Establishments in Greece, Mr. Diamantidis.

Many personalities participated in the official inauguration: His Excellency the Apostolic Nuncio, Mgr Savio Hon Tai Fai, His Eminence the Archbishop of Corfu, Mgr Georges Altouvas, who presided at the blessing of the Nursery School “Diamantideio”, the Vicar Provincial, Brother Gabriel Villa-Real and the Provincial Econome, Brother Xavier Giné, also representatives of the State, the Minister of Tourism, the Mayor of the town of Nea Smyrni, and also executives from our Establishments.

And of course, Mr. Diamantidis, former student of the Leonin of Athens, who contributed to the completion of the construction work with a considerable sum of money. In his speech, Mr. Diamantidis said, among other things, that he remembers the Brothers, his school and his school years with love. He still appreciates the education he received at Leonin, as he often points out when talking to his former classmates: “Thanks to Leonteios, we have become the people we are today”.

The ceremony took place outside. First of all, there were a number of speeches by people who played a significant role in the conception and realisation of this important work. Everyone stressed the role and meaning of this Nursery School in the school complex of Nea Smyrni. Some even underlined with emotion and fervour the role of the inspirer of this Marist work. At the end, what was a very important surprise was that the benefactor, Mr. Diamantidis, promised that he would give all the money necessary to consolidate the foundations of the Establishment of the Leonine of Athens. Finally, a delicious meal followed in the courtyard of the college.