The International Olympic Academy (IOA) is established

The 44th IOE Meeting in Rome (1949) unanimously approved the establishment of the IOA. It entrusts its implementation and operation to the (then named) EDA of Greece. Its operation officially begins on June 14, 1961, headed by Kleanthis Paleologos, Director of the Department of Physical Education of the University of Athens, and German Professor Lotz. From 1962 until 1990, the academic work of the Academy was coordinated by its Dean, Otto Simitsek. His contribution to the development of the Academy was instrumental. Together with Professor Paleologos, who had been the Honorary Vice-President of the Academy, they designed its course for three decades. Both are honored with the Gold Badge of the Academy.