Rena Rossi – Zairi was born in Athens and graduated from Pierce – The American College of Greece in 1973. She is the daughter of Nikolaos Rossis, the acknowledged Greek editor, while her grandfather was the famous philologist and writer Ioannis Th. Rossis.
She holds a BSc in Kindergarten Education from the University of Athens and Diploma from the Montessori Centre International in London. She has worked as a kindergarten teacher and as a publishing editor. She has written 17 books for adults and over 150 children’s books.
In 2015, she was awarded the Prize for Literature by the Piraeus Women’s Group “Exaliptron” for her work, combined with its great appeal and her interactive relationship with her readers. She was also awarded the Prize of “Public” Bookstores, in the category “The most loving character” for her novel “Twin Moons.” Τwo of her novels were screened as television series. All her books are published by Psychogios Publications.
Q&A
Q: What are three enduring values Pierce has taught you?
To have faith in my fellow human beings, offer my best self every step of the way, and never give up on my dreams.
Q: Describe Pierce in three words.
Dream school.
Q: Which is your fondest memory from your time at Pierce?
Feeling like being in a family every day.
Q: What do you miss most from your days at Pierce?
Everything. Especially my professors.
Q: If you could go back in time, is there anything that would you do differently?
All I would like to do is just go back without changing the slightest.
Q: Where was your favorite spot on campus?
Volleyball.
Q: Who was your favorite teacher and why?
Ι didn’t have any favorite. Each of them offered me a lot in the development of my personality.
Q: After graduation, have you maintained a relationship with your school and classmates?
Unfortunately not. I got married very young and fully devoted to my children, studies, working, continuous writing…
Q: Looking back, how did your time at Pierce help you become the person you are today?
During my years at Pierce, I was filled with confidence, critical thinking, empathy, passion for life.
Q: What advice would you give a new Pierce student?
To enjoy the knowledge and skills generously provided by Pierce in order to cope comfortably with the challenges of the future.
Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?
From everyday experiences, from my readers, from my soul…
Q: What is your motto in life?
Love is our only way.
ACG Alumni: We Stay Connected!
