About OCF at UVA

OCF at UVA is an Orthodox Christian student chapter at the University of Virginia, founded in 2005. We gather for worship at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, weekly Scripture study, and the ordinary fellowship of students who share the same Faith. We are part of the wider Orthodox Christian Fellowship network across North America.

OCF students gathered at a retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Our Mission

Our hope is simple: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Our History

OCF at UVA was founded in 2005 and has been a home for Orthodox students for many years. We are also part of the wider OCF network across North America, which means students here are connected to a much larger fellowship beyond Charlottesville.

Officers — 2026–2027

These are some of the students ensuring OCF runs smoothly. Please reach out if you have any questions!

Benjamin Tang

President

Benjamin Tang

Hi, I'm Ben, a rising 4th year studying Political Philosophy, Policy, and Law. Outside of OCF, I am also a cadet in the Army ROTC program here planning on commissioning as a JAG officer. I also like to sing and you can find me both serving in the choir ministry and in the Virginia Glee Club! Feel free to reach out if you ever want to grab a meal or need a ride anywhere.

qak6ty@virginia.edu
Abigail Elias

Vice President

Abigail Elias

Hi, I'm Abby! I'm a rising third-year student at UVA studying biology & psychology. I'm planning on going into the medical field. Outside of OCF, I love volunteering with kids, hanging out with friends, working out, and traveling. A fun fact is that I studied abroad in Spain this past Spring semester so let me know if you have any questions! Feel free to reach out if you want school or pre-med advice, or just want to grab a meal!

ryp9cj@virginia.edu
Alexander Bills

Treasurer

Alexander Bills

I'm Alex, a 4th-year biomedical engineering major. For fun, I like to play basketball, video games, read, play violin, and work on my podcast Mindful Gaming. Reach out to me on GroupMe with questions about anything and everything, no judgment. All glory to God.

zsx6bx@virginia.edu
Maria Koutsourais

Secretary & Social Chair

Maria Koutsourais

Hi! I'm Maria, a rising 3rd year studying Neuroscience and preparing for nursing school next year. When I'm not doing all the epic OCF things we do, you might catch me running/walking around grounds, hooping at AFC, or studying at O-hill. I also love playing the guitar, reading, baking, photography, drawing/painting, and pretty much anything creative I can put my hands on! Feel free to reach out if you ever wanna hang out!

bu2ur@virginia.edu

Life together

What OCF actually looks like

OCF students standing in prayer during Divine Liturgy
Students planting trees together during a service day
OCF students chanting together during a Liturgy
OCF students gathered around a table outdoors