On Sunday, March 24, the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) celebrated its patronal feast at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, VA. The event brought together esteemed guests including Prof. Salim Daccache s.j., Rector of USJ; Mr. Wael Hachem, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. at the Lebanese Embassy in Washington DC; Prof. Christian Makary, President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations; Mrs. Cynthia-Maria Ghobril Andréa, Director of Fondation USJ; Dr. Victor Yazbek, Treasurer of the Washington DC Alumni Chapter; as well as friends and Alumni of USJ.

The evening commenced with a welcoming address by Mrs. Rim Abboud, President of the dinner organizing committee. She reflected with pride on her education at USJ, highlighting its transformative impact on alumni’s global contributions.

Mrs. Abboud praised the organizing team’s efforts and introduced Prof. Makary, who expressed gratitude for the unwavering support towards USJ students and HDF patients facing financial hardships. He commended the organizers for their courage, dynamism, and tireless dedication, noting their exceptional efforts in orchestrating the event on short notice, turning it into a resounding success. Special recognition was extended to Mrs. Rim Abboud, Mrs. Nada Salem Abisamra, Dr. Aline Charabati, Mrs. Cynthia Rouhana, and Mrs. Dina Sheehan, along with all the members of the Washington DC Alumni Chapter Committee.

Mrs. Nada Salem Abisamra, the Rector’s Representative for Educational Excellence and Philanthropy in the United States, highlighted Prof. Salim Daccache’s significant contributions to education, interreligious dialogue, and humanitarian endeavors, both in Lebanon and globally. She underscored his leadership, unwavering dedication to fostering academic excellence and cultural dialogue, as well as his tireless devotion and numerous accolades.

Prof. Salim Daccache, s.j., expressed gratitude to the attendees and acknowledged the committee’s tireless efforts. With heartfelt sincerity, he extended his thanks: “I would like to thank each and every one of you for gracing this USJ event with your presence. A special acknowledgment goes to the dedicated efforts of Mrs. Rim Abboud, whose hard work has been instrumental in making tonight a success, and to Mrs. Nada Salem Abisamra for her steadfast support of USJ, ensuring its strong presence here, in Washington, DC.” He then continued: “March marks the month of our beloved university’s patron, Saint Joseph. I am confident that he continues to watch over us and our university which, despite adversities, thrives, shaping generations of professionals and leaders rooted in values of citizenship, generosity, love, and solidarity! Our instructors and researchers continue to shine, with recent international recognitions elevating our reputation. Three new centers and chairs are on the horizon. Our Hôtel-Dieu de France hospital remains in high demand, and despite the odds, the latest QS World University Rankings placed USJ as the 3^rd in Lebanon! Today, I stand before you not only as a Jesuit Rector, but also as an advocate, calling for your support, and thanking you for every dollar contributed. This year, we almost lost a thousand students due to insufficient scholarships. And finally, dear friends, as you continue to build this great civilization of America, do not forget your homeland, Lebanon, the cradle of our university, faith, and freedom. It needs your support.”

Mrs. Andréa spoke from the heart: “We are thrilled to be here in Washington DC among our fellow alumni and friends. Tonight is about making a real impact, about changing lives while sharing moments of genuine connection. So, I won’t give a lengthy speech about the virtues of education and philanthropy. I invite you to witness our journey through a video highlighting our campaign, ‘USJ, Aspire for More,’ for I truly believe that a picture speaks a thousand words.” Mrs. Andréa concluded by addressing the generous donors, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their solidarity and generosity in support of their homeland.

Mrs. Nada Salem Abisamra highlighted the significance of the magnets adorning select names on the tables, symbolizing individual contributions, a tangible expression of gratitude for the generous support received. She emphasized the importance of donations, crucial for promoting educational excellence and sustaining philanthropic efforts, thus fostering academic advancement at USJ and extending benevolent care. Mrs. Salem Abisamra then invited the participants to enjoy the evening while embracing the spirit of community and compassion fostered by their generosity.

During the gathering in Washington DC, the Rector extended heartfelt gratitude to the alumni for their unwavering support by bestowing the 150^th Anniversary Medal upon His Excellency Farid Abboud, former Ambassador of Lebanon to Washington DC, and his wife, Mrs. Rim Abboud. The medal was also conferred upon Mr. Georges and Mrs. Fida Haddad, and Mrs. Nada Salem Abisamra, as a token of appreciation for their dedication and commitment to USJ and HDF.

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