Latest news with #FadloKhuri
Web Release
6 days ago
- Politics
- Web Release
AUB Holds Panel Discussion on the Reform of Governance in Saudi Arabia
The Good Governance and Citizenship Observatory (GGCO) at the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship at the American University of Beirut (AUB) hosted a panel discussion titled 'Hawkama and Vision 2030: The Reform of Governance in Saudi Arabia.' The event featured Professor of Near Eastern Studies at Princeton University Bernard Haykel, a leading expert on the Gulf and Middle East. The conversation explored how institutional reform and regulatory change are advancing transparency, accountability, and sustainable development as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's broader transformation agenda. The panel drew a distinguished audience, including Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon Dr. Waleed Al-Bukhari; Spanish Ambassador to Lebanon Jesús Santos Aguado; Mexican Ambassador to Lebanon Francisco Romero Bock; Dr. Fadi Makki, Lebanon's minister of state for administrative reform; and former ministers. Also in attendance were Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president; Dr. Zaher Dawy, AUB provost; as well as university deans, senior administrators, and faculty members. Director of the Asfari Institute Lina Abou-Habib opened the event by welcoming the attendees and highlighting the significance and timeliness of the discussion, describing it as 'within the mandate of the institute, to discuss prospects, trends, and emerging initiatives that influence governance structures in the Arab region, particularly at this incredibly important moment of transition and instability.' Dr. Simon Kachar, GGCO founding and current director, and lecturer in political science at AUB, followed with opening remarks that placed the discussion in a broader regional and institutional context. 'In an era marked by rapid transformations and evolving global dynamics, understanding the nuances of governance reform becomes paramount,' he said. 'Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 represents an ambitious and far-reaching blueprint for economic diversification and social change, and at its very core lies the fundamental pillar of governance.' Kachar noted that the GGCO was established to foster critical thinking, encourage informed dialogue, and advance knowledge on good governance and active citizenship within Arab contexts. 'We believe that genuine progress and sustainable development are linked to transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance structures,' he added. He emphasized that the panel provided an opportunity to examine how Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is being translated into practice and how governance reforms are reshaping institutions. 'Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a forward-looking nation, globally integrated and domestically resilient,' he said. Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president, then delivered his welcoming remarks, highlighting the panel's regional and global relevance. 'Questions like how Vision 2030 is shaping Saudi Arabia in the region are extremely germane to what's happening in Lebanon and the entire region,' he said. He added that understanding what is happening in Saudi Arabia is essential—not only for neighboring countries, but for the international community as a whole. 'Saudi Arabia is a global concern,' he noted. He went on to commend the event's keynote guest, Professor Haykel, for his academic depth and candid insight. 'I feel fortunate that today at AUB, we have arguably the most insightful expert—and also one of the most honest experts in the region. Not just academically qualified, but more than happy to share careful observations from a place of objectivity and great knowledge,' Khuri added. The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Tania Haddad, associate professor of public administration and nonprofit management at AUB and member of the GGCO Steering Committee. She opened by framing the scope of the conversation: 'Over the past decade, the kingdom has undertaken one of the most ambitious state-led transformation agendas in the region. Anchored in Vision 2030, these reforms span economic diversification, bureaucratic modernization, social liberalization, and institutional restructuring. This panel aims to critically examine the governance dimensions of these reforms, including their origins, mechanisms, and implications.' Haddad then introduced Professor Haykel as a prominent scholar of the Arabian Peninsula, whose work focuses on the politics, economics, and history of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Yemen, and 'has critically engaged with questions of state reform, institutional change, and governance in the kingdom.' The discussion unfolded as a moderated, in-depth exchange, structured around four key themes central to understanding Saudi Arabia's governance reform trajectory. It began by examining the driving forces behind the reform agenda. Haykel traced the impetus to a growing realization among Saudi leadership—and increasingly, among the public—that the previous system of governance had become unsustainable. 'The driver for reform in Saudi Arabia is a sense that exists among the leadership—but I think it's also prevalent in society—that the country, as it was functioning before the accession of King Salman in 2015… was unsustainable, and that the country needed to dramatically change,' Haykel said. He added that 'what's particularly distinctive about the kingdom, and you don't find it in other countries of the GCC, is the brutal honesty with which the leadership in the kingdom talked about this need.' The conversation then explored how reforms have reshaped the relationship between the state and its citizens, particularly through the strategic deployment of nationalism, identity, and new narratives of civic responsibility. It also addressed the institutionalization of accountability, transparency, and citizen participation, and concluded with a reflection on the broader regional implications of the Saudi reform experience. The event concluded with a question-and-answer session that invited reflections on the sustainability, implementation, and broader impact of the reforms.
Al Bawaba
29-06-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
AUB Alumni Reunion 2025: Honoring Legacy, Celebrating Community
American University of Beirut (AUB) alumni, along with families and friends, came together to celebrate the AUB Alumni Reunion 2025 through a series of meaningful events held between June 19 and 21. While the annual reunion is a cherished tradition for AUB graduates, it holds special significance for alumni celebrating their 25th, 50th, or more-than-55-year anniversaries. These milestone classes are formally honored during a ceremony at AUB Assembly Hall, which marks the official launch of a three-day reunion the Honoring Ceremony, Associate Vice President for Development, Alumni Relations, and University Events Salma Dannawi Oueida welcomed the guests with moving remarks. 'This bond between you and AUB isn't tied to a graduation year; it's something deeper. It's the quiet pride you feel when you hear of a student breaking barriers. It's the comfort of seeing old classmates and knowing that this place still feels like home. As we look around this room, we see more than alumni. We see torchbearers. Bridge builders. Guardians of a legacy,' she his keynote address, AUB President Fadlo Khuri reflected on the university's enduring mission and future direction: 'We're proud of the impactful AUB education that we provide—and our extraordinary alumni—but it's not enough. Our university must do more for the communities beyond our walls. And that is what we are doing. We are transforming, introducing new programs—even new faculties—while holding tight to the values that have made this institution great.'Khuri also shared updates from campus and affirmed the essential role of alumni: 'There have been some changes at your alma mater. But some things do not change. At the top of that list is the importance of our alumni—of all of you: You lead, you inspire, you innovate, and you give back—so that others may have life and have it more abundantly. You have stepped up time and time again in support of our abiding mission: to serve the peoples of Lebanon, the Middle East, and beyond to the greatest of our abilities. Thank you.'Keynote speaker Hussein Ammar, representing alumni celebrating their 50th year graduation anniversaries, delivered a poignant reflection. A 1975 graduate with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, Ammar built a successful career managing construction companies in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. A founding member of the AUB Alumni Chapter in Jeddah, he has remained closely connected to the university as a mentor to graduates and a loyal, generous donor.'We celebrate today our graduation from 50 years ago; and it would be remiss not to reflect on how those years affected our beloved Lebanon,' he said. 'We endured a civil war, wars of others on our land, and external control that has gripped our country and regressed it to levels unimaginable. None of us graduating in 1975 could have anticipated what ensued. We were pioneers and we have fallen far behind.'He continued by highlighting AUB's enduring role through decades of turmoil: 'While all this transpired, AUB has persevered, affirming its noble mission. AUB has continued to be a beacon of learning and open thought in Lebanon, in the Arab world, and beyond. It has stood as a moral compass and safe haven in the face of unimaginable adversity. It has continued to bring Lebanese and Arab students from all walks of life, all religions and all political affinities into one common space—a space for debate, for listening, for learning, for growth. AUB is a microcosm of what Lebanon could be.'Class of 2000 keynote speaker Dana Hussein Ammar (BBA '00) represented alumni marking their 25th graduation anniversary. A strategic business and brand consultant, she also runs a motherhood mentorship platform and has over 20 years of experience spanning global corporations, social impact ventures, and food retail startups. She comes from a distinguished multi-generational AUB family and is the daughter of Class of 1975 speaker Hussein Ammar.'To think that my father, mother, and I sat under the same trees and walked the same steps on this campus, gives all the more meaning and exemplifies the longstanding legacy and sacredness of our alma mater,' she to the future, she pointed to the power of alumni to make a difference: 'Having shared precious years and memories on this campus, we now have the privileged position to impact and give back. Some will aid students financially, others through mentorships, grants, opportunity building, and the like—the bravest even get into politics. All of it is vastly appreciated by the communities we support.'The Honoring Ceremony featured the distribution of medals to members of the celebrated senior classes. It concluded with a group photo of the iconic AUB Main Gate stairs and a lively reception at the Assembly Hall Plaza. Festivities continued on campus with the annual Alumni Party featuring Alecco and his band, where hundreds of alumni, joined by their families and friends, enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere and high-energy the following evening, more than 2,000 attendees gathered at the AUB Green Oval for an unforgettable evening under the stars. The atmosphere was electric as Lebanese superstar Nancy Ajram lit up the stage with her timeless hits, and the crowd sang along in pure joy. The concert was a beautiful mix of nostalgia, energy, and pride—bringing together alumni, students, families, and friends for a magical night that perfectly captured the spirit of AUB Reunion. All proceeds from the concert will go toward supporting the class reunion scholarship fund, reinforcing the event's mission of giving back and empowering future generations. The reunion weekend concluded on a warm and joyful note with a family day trip, where alumni explored Lebanon's natural beauty and created new memories with loved ones.
Web Release
28-06-2025
- General
- Web Release
AUB Alumni Reunion 2025: Honoring Legacy, Celebrating Community
American University of Beirut (AUB) alumni, along with families and friends, came together to celebrate the AUB Alumni Reunion 2025 through a series of meaningful events held between June 19 and 21. While the annual reunion is a cherished tradition for AUB graduates, it holds special significance for alumni celebrating their 25th, 50th, or more-than-55-year anniversaries. These milestone classes are formally honored during a ceremony at AUB Assembly Hall, which marks the official launch of a three-day reunion celebration. During the Honoring Ceremony, Associate Vice President for Development, Alumni Relations, and University Events Salma Dannawi Oueida welcomed the guests with moving remarks. 'This bond between you and AUB isn't tied to a graduation year; it's something deeper. It's the quiet pride you feel when you hear of a student breaking barriers. It's the comfort of seeing old classmates and knowing that this place still feels like home. As we look around this room, we see more than alumni. We see torchbearers. Bridge builders. Guardians of a legacy,' she said. In his keynote address, AUB President Fadlo Khuri reflected on the university's enduring mission and future direction: 'We're proud of the impactful AUB education that we provide—and our extraordinary alumni—but it's not enough. Our university must do more for the communities beyond our walls. And that is what we are doing. We are transforming, introducing new programs—even new faculties—while holding tight to the values that have made this institution great.' Khuri also shared updates from campus and affirmed the essential role of alumni: 'There have been some changes at your alma mater. But some things do not change. At the top of that list is the importance of our alumni—of all of you: You lead, you inspire, you innovate, and you give back—so that others may have life and have it more abundantly. You have stepped up time and time again in support of our abiding mission: to serve the peoples of Lebanon, the Middle East, and beyond to the greatest of our abilities. Thank you.' Keynote speaker Hussein Ammar, representing alumni celebrating their 50th year graduation anniversaries, delivered a poignant reflection. A 1975 graduate with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, Ammar built a successful career managing construction companies in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. A founding member of the AUB Alumni Chapter in Jeddah, he has remained closely connected to the university as a mentor to graduates and a loyal, generous donor. 'We celebrate today our graduation from 50 years ago; and it would be remiss not to reflect on how those years affected our beloved Lebanon,' he said. 'We endured a civil war, wars of others on our land, and external control that has gripped our country and regressed it to levels unimaginable. None of us graduating in 1975 could have anticipated what ensued. We were pioneers and we have fallen far behind.' He continued by highlighting AUB's enduring role through decades of turmoil: 'While all this transpired, AUB has persevered, affirming its noble mission. AUB has continued to be a beacon of learning and open thought in Lebanon, in the Arab world, and beyond. It has stood as a moral compass and safe haven in the face of unimaginable adversity. It has continued to bring Lebanese and Arab students from all walks of life, all religions and all political affinities into one common space—a space for debate, for listening, for learning, for growth. AUB is a microcosm of what Lebanon could be.' Class of 2000 keynote speaker Dana Hussein Ammar (BBA '00) represented alumni marking their 25th graduation anniversary. A strategic business and brand consultant, she also runs a motherhood mentorship platform and has over 20 years of experience spanning global corporations, social impact ventures, and food retail startups. She comes from a distinguished multi-generational AUB family and is the daughter of Class of 1975 speaker Hussein Ammar. 'To think that my father, mother, and I sat under the same trees and walked the same steps on this campus, gives all the more meaning and exemplifies the longstanding legacy and sacredness of our alma mater,' she said. Looking to the future, she pointed to the power of alumni to make a difference: 'Having shared precious years and memories on this campus, we now have the privileged position to impact and give back. Some will aid students financially, others through mentorships, grants, opportunity building, and the like—the bravest even get into politics. All of it is vastly appreciated by the communities we support.' The Honoring Ceremony featured the distribution of medals to members of the celebrated senior classes. It concluded with a group photo of the iconic AUB Main Gate stairs and a lively reception at the Assembly Hall Plaza. Festivities continued on campus with the annual Alumni Party featuring Alecco and his band, where hundreds of alumni, joined by their families and friends, enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere and high-energy evening. On the following evening, more than 2,000 attendees gathered at the AUB Green Oval for an unforgettable evening under the stars. The atmosphere was electric as Lebanese superstar Nancy Ajram lit up the stage with her timeless hits, and the crowd sang along in pure joy. The concert was a beautiful mix of nostalgia, energy, and pride—bringing together alumni, students, families, and friends for a magical night that perfectly captured the spirit of AUB Reunion. All proceeds from the concert will go toward supporting the class reunion scholarship fund, reinforcing the event's mission of giving back and empowering future generations. The reunion weekend concluded on a warm and joyful note with a family day trip, where alumni explored Lebanon's natural beauty and created new memories with loved ones.
Al Bawaba
10-06-2025
- General
- Al Bawaba
Qatar Scholarship – Education Above All Program at AUB Celebrates the Graduation of 93 Students
The Qatar Scholarship – Education Above All Program at the American University of Beirut (AUB) marked a significant milestone with the graduation of its final cohort of 93 students. The occasion was celebrated in a graduation and closing ceremony that marked the program's completion and honoring the remarkable achievements of its scholars. The event brought together senior university leadership and faculty members, including Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president, alongside distinguished guests such as His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, ambassador of the State of Qatar to Lebanon; Dr. Rima Karami, minister of education and higher education in Lebanon; Acting CEO of the Education Above All Foundation Mohammed Al-Kubaisi; and senior representatives from the Qatar Embassy in Lebanon and the Education Above All Foundation. Launched in 2021, the Qatar Scholarship – EAA Program at AUB was established to expand access to quality higher education for 316 Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian students. It provided scholarships to Lebanese youth, as well as Palestinian and Syrian refugees living in Lebanon. In his opening remarks, AUB President Fadlo Khuri highlighted the profound community that grew out of the program, one that extends beyond academics to build meaningful human connections. 'This program was launched as a bridge, an opportunity for bright, determined students to access higher education,' he said. 'You have made it into something more: a vibrant, diverse community at AUB, built on shared challenges, solid friendships, and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond any classroom.' Khuri added, 'Thanks to the support of the Education Above All Foundation and the Qatar Fund for Development, hundreds of students have gained access to a world-class education at AUB, alongside civic engagement, global networks, and the mentorship needed to prosper. This partnership does not just fund education, it changes lives.' His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani praised the Education Above All Foundation for its pioneering role in empowering youth and promoting inclusive, high-quality education. He acknowledged the vital contribution of the Qatar Fund for Development and the strong collaboration with AUB. 'This initiative reflects the State of Qatar's unwavering commitment to supporting students on their educational journey,' he said. 'It reaffirms our belief in education as the cornerstone of cohesive societies and a key pillar of sustainable development. We are proud to stand with these young people as they build their futures.' Acting CEO of Education Above All Foundation Mohammed Al-Kubaisi emphasized the deeper mission of the program and its lasting impact. 'The Qatar Scholarship Program is not just an academic opportunity; it is a vital source of hope, a catalyst for empowerment, and a springboard for youth to reclaim their futures,' he said. Al-Kubaisi added, 'We have not only supported these students through graduation, but also helped equip them to give back, engage civically, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We are deeply proud of our graduates and grateful to our partners for ensuring that education continues to be a pillar of hope, justice, and sustainable development.' Dr. Joseph Costantine, director of the scholarship program, reflected on the journey of the past four years, comparing it to a ship that has now reached its harbor. 'This ship, this scholarship, started its maiden voyage in August 2021, when hope in Lebanon was scarce and faith in a bright future was lacking,' he said. 'This scholarship is beyond financial support; it is a belief, a trust, a fuel for potential, connection, and engagement. We are deeply grateful to the State of Qatar, Education Above All Foundation, Qatar Fund for Development, and Qatar Foundation, all of whom made this journey feasible.' A highlight of the ceremony was the ACE Talks Improv Public Speaking Competition, where computer science students Angela Sobhiyeh and Mona Jamal, along with environmental health student Christa Maria Bou Raad, and mechanical engineering student Ghina Sharif, took to the stage with improvised speeches in response to a prompt announced during the ceremony. Angela Sobhiyeh won the competition following a live vote by the guests of honor and audience. As part of the celebration, the program's annual distinction awards were presented to recognize outstanding student achievements. Racha Saad received the Highest GPA Award, while Cecilia Bakalian was honored with the Qatar Connection Engagement Award. The Remarkable Civic Engagement Award was presented to Zeinab Halima for her impactful community involvement. Additionally, Malak Mehrez, Wael Kheil, and Ada Al Kotob were awarded the Scholarship Engagement Award in recognition of their exceptional participation in scholarship-led activities. Attendees were also treated to two captivating musical performances by the Zaki Nassif Music Program at AUB. The ensemble's dynamic and heartfelt renditions added a rich cultural dimension to the event, enchanting the audience and enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. The ceremony concluded with a student procession and a commemorative group photo, capturing the pride and promise of a program that has transformed lives and shaped futures.
Web Release
10-06-2025
- General
- Web Release
Qatar Scholarship – Education Above All Program at AUB Celebrates the Graduation of 93 Students
The Qatar Scholarship – Education Above All Program at the American University of Beirut (AUB) marked a significant milestone with the graduation of its final cohort of 93 students. The occasion was celebrated in a graduation and closing ceremony that marked the program's completion and honoring the remarkable achievements of its scholars. The event brought together senior university leadership and faculty members, including Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president, alongside distinguished guests such as His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, ambassador of the State of Qatar to Lebanon; Dr. Rima Karami, minister of education and higher education in Lebanon; Acting CEO of the Education Above All Foundation Mohammed Al-Kubaisi; and senior representatives from the Qatar Embassy in Lebanon and the Education Above All Foundation. Launched in 2021, the Qatar Scholarship – EAA Program at AUB was established to expand access to quality higher education for 316 Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian students. It provided scholarships to Lebanese youth, as well as Palestinian and Syrian refugees living in Lebanon. In his opening remarks, AUB President Fadlo Khuri highlighted the profound community that grew out of the program, one that extends beyond academics to build meaningful human connections. 'This program was launched as a bridge, an opportunity for bright, determined students to access higher education,' he said. 'You have made it into something more: a vibrant, diverse community at AUB, built on shared challenges, solid friendships, and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond any classroom.' Khuri added, 'Thanks to the support of the Education Above All Foundation and the Qatar Fund for Development, hundreds of students have gained access to a world-class education at AUB, alongside civic engagement, global networks, and the mentorship needed to prosper. This partnership does not just fund education, it changes lives.' His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani praised the Education Above All Foundation for its pioneering role in empowering youth and promoting inclusive, high-quality education. He acknowledged the vital contribution of the Qatar Fund for Development and the strong collaboration with AUB. 'This initiative reflects the State of Qatar's unwavering commitment to supporting students on their educational journey,' he said. 'It reaffirms our belief in education as the cornerstone of cohesive societies and a key pillar of sustainable development. We are proud to stand with these young people as they build their futures.' Acting CEO of Education Above All Foundation Mohammed Al-Kubaisi emphasized the deeper mission of the program and its lasting impact. 'The Qatar Scholarship Program is not just an academic opportunity; it is a vital source of hope, a catalyst for empowerment, and a springboard for youth to reclaim their futures,' he said. Al-Kubaisi added, 'We have not only supported these students through graduation, but also helped equip them to give back, engage civically, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We are deeply proud of our graduates and grateful to our partners for ensuring that education continues to be a pillar of hope, justice, and sustainable development.' Dr. Joseph Costantine, director of the scholarship program, reflected on the journey of the past four years, comparing it to a ship that has now reached its harbor. 'This ship, this scholarship, started its maiden voyage in August 2021, when hope in Lebanon was scarce and faith in a bright future was lacking,' he said. 'This scholarship is beyond financial support; it is a belief, a trust, a fuel for potential, connection, and engagement. We are deeply grateful to the State of Qatar, Education Above All Foundation, Qatar Fund for Development, and Qatar Foundation, all of whom made this journey feasible.' A highlight of the ceremony was the ACE Talks Improv Public Speaking Competition, where computer science students Angela Sobhiyeh and Mona Jamal, along with environmental health student Christa Maria Bou Raad, and mechanical engineering student Ghina Sharif, took to the stage with improvised speeches in response to a prompt announced during the ceremony. Angela Sobhiyeh won the competition following a live vote by the guests of honor and audience. As part of the celebration, the program's annual distinction awards were presented to recognize outstanding student achievements. Racha Saad received the Highest GPA Award, while Cecilia Bakalian was honored with the Qatar Connection Engagement Award. The Remarkable Civic Engagement Award was presented to Zeinab Halima for her impactful community involvement. Additionally, Malak Mehrez, Wael Kheil, and Ada Al Kotob were awarded the Scholarship Engagement Award in recognition of their exceptional participation in scholarship-led activities. Attendees were also treated to two captivating musical performances by the Zaki Nassif Music Program at AUB. The ensemble's dynamic and heartfelt renditions added a rich cultural dimension to the event, enchanting the audience and enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. The ceremony concluded with a student procession and a commemorative group photo, capturing the pride and promise of a program that has transformed lives and shaped futures.
