Sharon Gerstel, professor of Byzantine art and archaeology in the UCLA College, was appointed inaugural director of the UCLA Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center for the Study of Hellenic Culture, effective this July. Gerstel has served as the acting director of the Center since 2017.
In her role as director, Gerstel will develop a long-term vision for the center, building on the university’s research and teaching strengths in Hellenic studies, including the expansion of courses in modern Greek language and culture. Under her guidance, the center will continue to forge partnerships with Hellenic organizations in Southern California.
“As someone who has worked in Greece for more than 30 years and who so closely identifies with Greek culture, I am honored and excited to take on this role,” Gerstel said. “The establishment of the center demonstrates UCLA’s deep investment in the study and teaching of Hellenic culture, but also manifests its commitment to engage members of the community in the consideration of the rich history and culture of Greece, Cyprus and the Hellenic diaspora. I am looking forward to strengthening our connections with cultural and educational institutions in Greece and Cyprus.”
Gerstel’s current research focuses on the church of Hagioi Theodoroi in Greece and its community. In 2019, she was honored by the American Hellenic Council and the Hellenic Society of Constantinople and currently serves on the Board of the Greek Heritage Society of Southern California.
Read the full news release on the UCLA College website.