The Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) held a graduation ceremony at the Medical Sciences Campus on Damascus Road on Friday, July 5, 2024. This significant event celebrated the achievements of graduates from the Faculty of Dental Medicine (FMD), the Faculty of Pharmacy (FP) including its Department of Nutrition, the Faculty of Nursing Science (FSI), and the School of Medical Lab Technicians (ETLAM) of the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ). The ceremony’s slogan, “On the path of 150 years... you are the guardians of our heritage and the builders of our future,” perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion. This day honored the accomplishments of aspiring healthcare professionals, thoroughly equipped to embark on their promising careers.

Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, Rector of USJ, inaugurated the ceremony with an inspiring address. He expressed his joy and pride in welcoming the distinguished guest of honor, Dr. Samia Mora, a renowned Lebanese-American cardiologist specializing in cardiovascular disease prevention, researcher, and professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Daccache praised Mora’s unwavering dedication to scientific advancement and her love for Lebanon. Shifting his focus to the graduates, he reflected on their journey marked by challenges such as the pandemic, economic crisis, and the tragic Beirut port explosion. Emphasizing the virtues of perseverance and determination, Daccache encouraged the graduates to pursue their aspirations with courage and audacity. He also underscored the transformative impact of Jesuit education in fostering individuals aware of their societal responsibilities.

Prof. Daccache further emphasized the crucial role of Hôtel-Dieu de France hospital in training graduates. He highlighted its dual commitment to providing exceptional clinical training and nurturing values of compassion and humanity among its students. “Express gratitude to those who have contributed to your academic journey and never forget the importance of giving back to the community that has supported you,” he advised. Prof. Daccache also emphasized the importance of alumni networks encouraging graduates to maintain strong connections with their colleagues and Alma Mater.

“As the 149^th year since the founding of our Alma Mater comes to an end,” the Rector addressed the graduates, “we are entering a new era with great anticipation, opening wide the door to USJ’s 150^th anniversary. Although these are sad and difficult times, we will commemorate 150 years of USJ with friends, alumni, and our entire community. We will honor this milestone with the reverence it deserves, unlike the hurried centennial of Greater Lebanon. We dreamed of Greater Lebanon, we made it a reality, and it remains the Lebanon we envision, build every day, and love.”

Prof. Samia Mora then took the stage, sharing four invaluable lessons from her career, focusing on preparation, resilience, responsibility, and teamwork. Her insights deeply resonated among the graduates, inspiring them to persevere in their pursuit of knowledge and adaptability amidst the dynamic shifts in the healthcare sector.

In her speech, Prof. Mora highlighted the importance of innovation and ongoing research. She emphasized that the healthcare profession is constantly evolving, with technological and scientific advances constantly transforming medical practices. “Be open to innovation, embrace research, and challenge the status quo without hesitation,” she recommended, citing recent medical discoveries that have revolutionized treatments and contributed to save lives.

Prof. Mora also underscored the importance of maintaining balance between professional and personal life. She reminded the graduates that effective caregiving depends on maintaining one’s own mental and physical health. “To provide optimal care to your patients, prioritize your own well-being,” she advised. Additionally, she encouraged them to seek opportunities to rejuvenate and cultivate passions and interests beyond their medical careers.

Tamara Hijazi, valedictorian of the FSI, then spoke representing her fellow graduates. “Today marks the turning of a beautifully written page, and the beginning of a new chapter in our lives, a new adventure, a new journey, and new discoveries.” She expressed her pride and joy in being present at the ceremony, while acknowledging the challenges they had overcome to reach this milestone. Hijazi paid tribute to the Deans, instructors, and all members of the USJ community for their support and inspiration throughout their studies.

She also extended sincere gratitude to her classmates, highlighting their crucial role in her personal journey. “You are exceptional individuals who have inspired me to give my best,” she affirmed. The FSI valedictorian emphasized the significance of upholding human values in a world marked by growing inequality, urging her colleagues to advocate for justice and strive for a more equitable society. Her remarks highlighted the importance of unity and collaborative support, encouraging everyone to remain ambitious, honest, and dedicated to their country and community.

Dr. Amin Zoghbi, President of the FMD Alumni Association, delivered a moving speech on behalf of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations. He emphasized the importance of fraternity among alumni and urged the new graduates to remain actively engaged and make meaningful contributions to their community.

Dr. Zoghbi also tackled the challenges awaiting graduates in the current context of Lebanon and the world. He emphasized the necessity for resilience and adaptability in navigating evolving circumstances, and affirmed the importance of staying informed and adaptable in the constantly evolving healthcare sector.

Finally, Dr. Zoghbi highlighted the importance of ethics and integrity in professional practice. He reminded graduates to consistently uphold honesty and compassion, prioritizing the needs of their patients. “Your commitment to professional ethics will define you as exemplary leaders in the healthcare field,” he concluded. Dr. Zoghbi urged the newly graduated healthcare professionals to continue cultivating these values throughout their careers.

The ceremony’s highlights included Miss Amal Srour, valedictorian of the FP, delivering the graduates’ oath, and Dr. Joy Elian, a graduate of the FMD, delivering the doctoral oath of scientific integrity. The presentation of diplomas marked the culmination of the evening’s celebrations.

Read also:
Cérémonie de remise des diplômes aux étudiants de la FMD, la FP, la FSI et l’ETLAM-2024
حفل التخرّج الثاني لطلاّب جامعة القدّيس يوسف في بيروت

Click for photos