Maria Michalopoulou elected first female rector of Democritus University of Thrace

Professor Maria Michalopoulou has been elected as the first woman rector of the Democritus University of Thrace, marking a historic milestone for the institution.

Michalopoulou, who also becomes the first rector to come from the university’s Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, was elected by the institution’s 11-member Governing Council with 10 votes in favor and one blank ballot. She was the sole candidate for the post.

Her four-member rectoral team includes Maria Grigoriou as vice rector for internationalization and administrative affairs, Dimitrios Karampatzakis as vice rector for finance and development, Georgios Broufas as vice rector for research and innovation, and Georgios Syrakoulis as vice rector for academic affairs and digital transformation.

Focus on internationalization and student welfare

Michalopoulou said her administration will prioritize international outreach, stronger links with local communities, student welfare and infrastructure development.

“Our university is at a critical juncture,” she said, noting that following a major restructuring completed in 2024, the institution must now operate more cohesively and strengthen its performance in education, research and social engagement.

New governing term begins in September

The university’s Governing Council consists of six internal and five external members elected through a formal selection process.

The new administration's four-year term will begin on Sept. 1, 2026, and run until Aug. 31, 2030.

Democritus University of Thrace, one of northern Greece’s largest higher education institutions, operates campuses across the region and plays a central role in academic and research activity in Thrace and eastern Macedonia.

Source:ERT