As alumni of USJ (FGM and FSE), my husband Gilbert and I have a strong sense of belonging and attachment to our University. We have always wanted to help the Lebanese youth and especially USJ students.

My name is Aida-Maria Toufic Abou Jaoudeh, I hold a Bachelor in Computer Science and I will soon get a Master in Telecommunications, Networks and Security from the National Institute of Telecommunications and Informatics (INCI) at USJ. 

When I reached out to USJ for the establishment of a Scholarship Fund and the means to help USJ students, the answer was that USJ “greatly appreciates my concern for solidarity with students through my interest in the establishment of a Scholarship Fund.” 

Solidarity is a core value. It means being attentive to the needs of our society and our fellow citizens. 

After graduating from a French-speaking school, studying economics at USJ was a no brainer. I come from a rather conservative community, and I was curious to join an academic institution that promotes cultural pluralism. 

As President of RDCL World, I firmly believe it is our responsibility to give back to the society that has played such a significant role in our success.

Tuesday August 4, 2020, 6:08 p.m., apocalypse in Beirut. Hundreds of dead, thousands of injured, hundreds of thousands of displaced and our capital in ruins. How can we remain numb to this kind of tragedy? 

…Quite simply because my father, my brother, and I are all alumni of USJ. I spent nearly 20 years there and earned nine degrees, it felt only natural to give back.

USJ is my alma mater, and I owe a great deal of my life and career to it. Supporting the University is my way of expressing my commitment and gratitude.

The scholarship has given me the opportunity to pursue my studies at Saint Joseph University. As a Francophone, I wanted nothing more than to join this university and be part of its family. Therefore, I sought the support of the very welcoming Financial Aid Office which granted me a scholarship.