College of Arts and Sciences
February 28, 2018
Recommendations for recipients will be made by the Director of Hellenic Studies and awarded by the financial aid office.
With their most recent gift, they will continue their life-long support for the preservation, promotion, and teaching of Hellenic thought and culture. Mr. Rumpakis is known as a highly successful Realtor and dedicated civic booster in the Greek and greater Portland communities. His philanthropic efforts in support of Hellenic studies include the E. John Rumpakis Professorship in Hellenic Studies and Hellenic Studies Minor at the University of Portland; the Rumpakis/Dussin Hellenic Studies endowment, which focuses on Greek language and Classical civilization and has a visiting professor program at Reed College; and being a major supporter of Hellenic Studies at Portland State University, Willamette University, and the University of Washington.
Rumpakis was appointed by two Oregon governors to the Oregon Heritage Commission, where he served for 10 years. The Greek Consulate in San Francisco recognized him for 35 years of voluntary service, and he served as president of the Greek Orthodox Community of Oregon. His awards include the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and the National President’s “Award of Excellence in Preserving Hellenism in America” by the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association. He is the benefactor in the creation and organization of a research library of more than 1,000 volumes, archival materials and historic documents for the American Hellenic Institute located in Washington D.C. The library will enable researchers to construct a holistic picture of the events that have transpired in the Eastern Mediterranean, especially over the last half of the twentieth century.
Cleo Rumpakis graduated from Central Washington College and taught in Washington, Oregon, and California, as well as internationally in France and Greece. Upon marriage to E. John Rumpakis she joined the family real estate firm as a licensed real estate broker and secretary. Her volunteer work includes creating the first walking tour map for Portland’s Beaumont Business Association, helped establish a permanent exhibit at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center on early Greek immigrants who constructed local railways, and must more. She has been a member of the Daughters of Penelope for 50 years, serving as chapter president, regional district governor, and national grand governor. Her 2016 book, Hellenic Tour USA, captures the history of the Greek American immigrant experience in all 50 states beginning in 1528.
The University of Portland is Oregon’s only comprehensive university with schools of business, education, engineering, nursing, a College of Arts and Sciences, and a graduate school. The University offers a rich resource for the community through educational opportunities, research, experts, in addition to a host of community offerings such as athletic events, cultural events, speakers, and lectures.
For more information, contact Chris Shine, Office of Development, at 503-943-7971 or shine@up.edu
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