March 21

Dr. Pierre Khoury, President of the Houston Alumni Chapter

Mr. Pierre Moubarak, Vice-President of the Houston Alumni Chapter

Welcomed

Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, Rector of the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ)

Prof. Christian Makary, President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations

Dr. Elie Nemr, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine

Mrs. Cynthia-Maria Ghobril Andréa, Director of Fondation USJ

Dr. Philip Salem and his wife hosted a dinner to honor the presence of Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, Rector of the Saint Joseph University of Beirut, and the accompanying delegation. The President and Vice-President of the Houston Alumni Chapter were also present.

During the dinner, Dr. Salem expressed his desire to make a generous donation towards a building at USJ in Beirut to enhance students' study spaces.

March 22

The Rector visited the University of Houston (UH) to meet with Mrs. Karen Jones, Executive Director of Global Programs at the Law Center, and Ambassador Michael Pelletier, Executive Director of the Institute for Global Engagement.

The visit, initiated by Mrs. Mathilda el Hashem, Esq., aimed to explore potential coordination and cooperation between the two institutions.

Dr. Nouhad Rizk Nassar, a Professor at UH, joined the meeting, which was followed by a tour of the Law Center.

Meanwhile, at MD Anderson, Dr. Elias Jabbour, a leukemia oncologist, held a meeting with distinguished doctors to introduce Dr. Elie Nemr, Dean of the USJ Faculty of Medicine, and Prof. Christian Makary, President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations.

Later, the Rector, accompanied by Mrs. Cynthia-Maria Ghobril Andréa and Mr. Pierre Moubarak, joined a gathering at MD Anderson, initiated by Dr. Roy Chemaly, Chair of Infectious Disease. During the gathering, USJ residents provided feedback on how to enhance the medical school’s research curriculum and accommodations for students seeking residency overseas. The meeting proved successful.

The day concluded with a delightful reception at the clubhouse for the alumni, featuring Lebanese cuisine, soft music, and familiar conversations.

March 23

The Second Houston Gala Dinner Was Organized on Saint Joseph Feast Day, Patron Saint of the University.

A gala dinner organized by the USJ Alumni Houston Chapter was held on Saturday, March 23, at the "Hyatt Regency Houston Galleria" hotel, where more than 260 alumni and friends of USJ gathered around the Rector, Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, and the accompanying delegation, consisting of Prof. Christian Makary, President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations, Mrs. Cynthia-Maria Ghobril Andréa, Director of Fondation USJ, and Dr. Elie Nemr, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine. The objective was to strengthen ties with USJ alumni and friends, raise funds to support the USJ Student Scholarship Fund for students facing financial difficulties, and the Social Solidarity Fund of the university medical center, Hôtel-Dieu de France (HDF) for patients in need.

After the warm welcome extended by Dr. Pierre Khoury, President of the USJ Houston Alumni Chapter, Mr. Pierre Moubarak, Vice-President, provided a comprehensive overview of the proceeds from the inaugural gala held in 2022. He highlighted how the event benefited more than 50 students, underscoring the profound impact that every donation, regardless of size, can have. He emphasized the importance of continued generosity in fostering educational opportunities and nurturing future leaders.

Prof. Christian Makary expressed his great joy at reconnecting with such a large number of alumni and friends of USJ. Enthusiastic about the warm atmosphere and palpable solidarity, he emphasized the remarkable unity among USJ alumni. Prof. Makary encouraged alumni to share their time, experience, and expertise with students and the young future generation of Lebanon. He also took the opportunity to thank Dr. Khoury and Mr. Moubarak for their dedication and commitment to the community.

Prof. Salim Daccache expressed his gratitude for the generous response to the call from USJ to support the students and contribute to the development of the University. He emphasized the importance of this annual gathering held to celebrate the feast of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of the University.

Prof. Daccache acknowledged the growing importance of the community of alumni in the United States, highlighting their number, quality, and pioneering role in promoting USJ and safeguarding Lebanon.

On the eve of the University's 150^th anniversary, Prof. Daccache mentioned how, 150 years ago, Fr. Monot came to the United States to fundraise for a building. Now, 150 years later, fundraising is aimed at building future leaders, empowered with education and excellence.

Dr. Pierre Khoury felt a deep sense of pride as he highlighted how the education, he and his colleagues received at USJ has profoundly shaped their lives. Through their experiences at the University, they have evolved into a generation of alumni who are making significant contributions worldwide. Whether through groundbreaking inventions, profound knowledge, or a unique combination of humanity and expertise, they continue to excel in various fields, leaving a lasting impact on society. Their journey from students to accomplished professionals is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring legacy of USJ.

Mrs. Cynthia-Maria Ghobril Andréa shared the figures of the "Donate to Educate" campaign, launched in 2020 with the Federation of Alumni Associations, which raised $4.2 million in gratitude to the contribution of alumni from around the world. She emphasized that the year 2025 will mark the 150^th anniversary of USJ, symbolizing dedication, perseverance, and excellence. She concluded with warm thanks to the donors and invited them to prioritize the upcoming 150 years, under the theme "USJ, Aspire for More."

The Houston Chapter honored Dr. Simon Gebara (Class of 1985) for his service to the Houston community for more than 30 years and Dr. Elie Nemr for his dedicated service to medical students and the family of medical alumni.

The Rector surprised the attendees by honoring Dr. Simon Gebara, Dr. Elie Nemr, Dr. Pierre Khoury and Mr. Pierre Moubarak, with the 150^th Anniversary Medal of USJ as a sign of recognition for their commitment and loyalty.

The gala was highlighted by silent auctions and emceed by Mrs. Sara Shouhayeb Alawar, who facilitated pledges; the event concluded with beautiful music provided by Gabriel.

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