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Alumna of the month!

Alumna Profiled: Ariadni Kalpini-Mavrou
Graduated: PIERCE ‘63
Lives in: Athens, Greece
Current Position: Professor of Genetics, Athens University School of Medicine

ARIADNI KALPINI – MAVROU was born in Athens and graduated from PIERCE in 1963. She earned a Bachelor’s and a Master’s of Science in Molecular Biology from Brandeis and Adelphi Universities in the USA and a Ph.D. in Genetics from Athens University School of Medicine.

She worked for two years in the field of cancer research in the USA. Upon her return to Greece she became a faculty member of Athens University Medical School and later a full professor of Genetics and contributed significantly to the organization of the largest Genetic Medical Center in Greece. Besides teaching, she has been involved in Cytogenetics and Molecular genetics on a research and diagnostic level. Her special interest focuses on Non Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis from fetal cells and fetal DNA in maternal circulation and towards this goal she collaborates with various research Institutes in Greece and abroad. She is the recipient of several International and Greek distinctions, including that of the Athens Academy and is the author of numerous scientific research papers and book chapters. She is married to Dimitri Mavros and the mother of 2 children.

INTERVIEW

Q.: What are three enduring lessons you learned during your studies at PIERCE?

  • Non ministrari sed ministrare
  • Have a positive attitude towards life
  • Help people in need

Q.: Describe PIERCE in three words.

Stimulating, exciting, inspiring

Q.: One of your favorite PIERCE memories?

The class excursion at Mystras.

Q.: What do you miss most from your days at PIERCE?

The inspiring and positive attitude of the teachers.

Q.: Where was your favorite spot on campus?

A classroom window with sea view.

Q.: Who was your favorite teacher and why?

Elli Yiotopoulou for her unique way of making history come alive.

Q.: Have you kept in touch with any of your classmates?

When we get together the old feeling of camaraderie is there.
I must also emphasize that I met at Pierce my closest and best friend.

Q.: Did having studied at PIERCE help you during your university studies and beyond?

Yes, since it allowed me to continue my studies in the USA in my field of interest.

Q.: What’s the greatest piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Live by your principles.

Q.: Who inspires you most?

The young generation because they control the future.

Q.: Your motto in life?

Don’t do to others what you don’t want done to you.

 

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