The Hellenic Observatory – Centre for Research on Contemporary Greece and Cyprus – marked the career of Professor Kevin Featherstone with a dedicated evening reception held at the British Embassy in Athens on 22 May. Organised in collaboration with the Embassy, the event honoured his two decades of leadership, during which he transformed the Observatory from a small academic group into a recognised centre of research and expertise. The gathering at the Upper Garden of the British Embassy Residence brought together a distinguished assembly of individuals whose lives and careers have been touched by Professor Featherstone's unwavering dedication to Greek studies and fostering ties between the UK and Greece.
The celebration commenced with the official opening by British Ambassador to Greece, Matthew Lodge. In his heartfelt speech, Ambassador Lodge expressed his appreciation for Professor Featherstone's longstanding commitment to fostering UK-Greece relations through scholarship and public dialogue. Referring to Professor Featherstone's contributions, the Ambassador said:
We are gathered to honour Professor Kevin Featherstone for his outstanding academic career and deep contributions to Greek–British relations. As Director of the Hellenic Observatory and Eleftherios Venizelos Professor at the LSE, he has led pioneering research on Greece’s political and economic landscape, fostering dialogue and understanding across Europe. Beyond academia, Professor Featherstone has advised Greek governments, engaged in public discourse, and mentored countless students. His efforts have been formally recognised by Greece through multiple honours, including the Order of the Phoenix (twice), an honorary doctorate, and honorary citizenship. Though stepping down from his LSE role, he continues his work as Chairman of the Anglo-Hellenic League, further strengthening ties between the UK and Greece. Tonight’s celebration is a heartfelt thank you—not a farewell—for his enduring legacy and continued service
Professor Vassilis Monastiriotis, successor to Professor Featherstone as Director of the Hellenic Observatory, recounted the transformative impact Professor Featherstone had on the Observatory, turning it into a pre-eminent institution for research and engagement on Greek affairs. Professor Monastiriotis also touched upon Kevin Featherstone's role in securing vital funding and broadening the scope of its activities, which in turn elevated the LSE' and the Observatory’s public profile during his tenure. His efforts transcended the confines of academia, reaching into media and policy arenas, especially during the Greek financial crisis, leaving an indelible mark on the field.
A special message was conveyed by Professor Larry Kramer, President and Vice-Chancellor of the LSE, who was unable to attend in person. Professor Monastiriotis read the message, which highlighted Kevin Featherstone's multifaceted contributions to the School as a leader of the Hellenic Observatory and Head of the European Institute:
“It is an honour to be able to share with you the deep appreciation which we have for Professor Featherstone, Kevin, for his leadership over many years of the Hellenic Observatory as Chair but also serving as Head of Department for the European Institute. He has been a true School citizen and we appreciate the many Boards and Committees which has served on. From the whole School, your fellow faculty, students and staff thank you Kevin.”
Another highlight of the evening was the speech by Professor Yannis Stournaras, Governor of the Bank of Greece and Chair of the Advisory Board to the Hellenic Observatory. As a long-standing friend and colleague of over two decades, Professor Stournaras offered a warm tribute to Professor Featherstone's scholarly prowess, personal integrity, and the profound influence he wielded on students and peers alike and expressed his sincere appreciation for Professor Featherstone's stewardship, which had significantly shaped the Observatory's trajectory.
The evening was a poignant reminder of Professor Featherstone's legacy, as the LSE marked the establishment of the new Centre for Research on Contemporary Greece & Cyprus – a testament to his enduring dedication.
Dimitris Papadimitriou, Professor of Political Science at the University of Manchester, shared reflections on more than three decades of collaboration – as student, colleague, and co-author. He praised Kevin Featherstone not only for his scholarly achievements but also for the exemplary model he has set – humble, industrious, and empowering to others. His leadership at the Hellenic Observatory was marked by an unyielding commitment to academic rigour coupled with an openness and respect that have left an indelible impression on all who have worked alongside him.
Taking the floor last, Professor Kevin Featherstone expressed his gratitude to colleagues and collaborators, reflecting on the Observatory’s journey and the shared achievements of the past decades. After the event, he commented:
“I was overwhelmed by the event – tremendously appreciative of the many prominent figures who attended, including three former prime ministers from across political parties. It was also an opportunity for me to thank the many people and organisations that have supported the Hellenic Observatory over the last quarter of a century. The Observatory can face the future with confidence under my successor, Professor Vassilis Monastiriotis.”
The event was graced by a veritable who’s who of Professor Featherstone’s academic and professional circle — including former students, co-authors, mentees, fellow scholars, political and media figures, and institutional partners from Greece. Three former prime ministers, as well as current ministers and former ministers attended. We warmly thank the British Embassy for co-hosting this memorable occasion, which made it possible to celebrate Professor Featherstone’s remarkable leadership in Athens. The gathering paid a fitting tribute to his achievements, surrounded by all those who have worked alongside him and contributed to the Observatory’s success.
Professor Featherstone remains part of the Hellenic Observatory’s now-expanded research base and continues to contribute to the Centre’s activities. His legacy of leadership continues to inspire and guide the Observatory’s mission to foster understanding and collaboration between the UK and Greece.
View the event photos.
See press coverage in Kathimerini.