Our Love Story

Katochi and The University of Kansas share a rich history that has positively impacted students in Lawrence and around the world. This connection began 40 years ago through KU’s administration of the Theatre in Greece program, fostering a deep bond between Kansas and Katochi. Those fortunate enough to engage in this relationship have learned invaluable lessons about hospitality, mutual commitments, friendship, and love.

We are incredibly grateful for this program and the warm and generous people of Katochi! Despite being oceans away from the small village of 2,500 residents, the relationships fostered in Katochi continue to enrich the lives of students and faculty, emphasizing the significance of Katochi education.

Forty years later, we aim to express our gratitude for their hospitality and goodwill through initiatives like the Katochi Donation, celebrating the beautiful future we will share in the years ahead through the Kansas2Katochi connection.

We invite you to join us in making a difference in the life of the beautiful village that our friends call home… Katochi.

The original Theatre in Greece team was initially accommodated in private residences (the girls) and in a large home just outside of town (the guys). As the program evolved, both students and faculty have been housed for many years in The First Elementary School of Katochi, a place where Katochi children receive their education during the academic year. 

Unfortunately, the rooms in this Katochi Elementary school lack air conditioning and a reliable heating source. While we are grateful for the wonderful hospitality of the Katochi community and local government officials, we feel compelled to help improve the situation. 

This desire led to the creation of Kansas2Katochi. The first initiative, the “K2K Give-Back” project, aims to collaborate with local officials to install heating and air conditioning units in each classroom (and the kitchen!) of The First Elementary School of Katochi. We are excited about this joint project that will enhance Katochi education and provide a better learning environment for the students!

VIP Classroom Sponsors are those who share a special bond with Katochi. With a Katochi donation of $2,000, you become a valued VIP Classroom Sponsor. As a VIP Classroom Sponsor, your name will be displayed on a sponsorship plaque, inscribed in both Greek and English, and permanently placed inside the school building. Additionally, as a VIP Classroom Sponsor, you will be invited to the Kansas2Katochi VIP Weekend, hosted in June 2026, to celebrate 40 years of partnership between Kansas and Katochi. Join us for this extraordinarily special weekend as we raise a toast to many more years of collaboration and enjoyment! JULY 23rd-26th, 2026: JOIN US IN KATOCHI, GREECE, AS A SPECIAL GUEST!