The American University of Beirut (AUB) hosted its annual Legacy Ceremony, welcoming a new class of students who are children and/or grandchildren of alumni. The event brought together senior university leadership, deans, faculty, and alumni families to celebrate tradition, continuity, and the deep-rooted bond between AUB and the generations who have upheld its legacy.
Salma Oueida, associate vice president for development, alumni relations, and university events, welcomed students and their families with words of hope and encouragement, recognizing the strength of tradition and the lasting bonds within the AUB community. “Your families have shaped this university’s story—through moments of joy, through challenges, and everything in between. They’ve contributed to the history of AUB in countless ways, and now, it’s your turn to continue that legacy. You have inherited not just a love for this place, but a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives. Now, you get to add your own chapter—carrying forward their dreams, their ambitions, and their values.”
She went on to say, “You come to AUB with a legacy of resilience, creativity, and service—qualities that define this university. But as you grow and evolve, you’ll bring your own dreams and strengths to that legacy, and that’s when the real magic begins.”
Antoine Sabbagh, director of admissions and financial aid, reflected on the significance of preserving continuity across generations. “The baton of progress has been passed to you, and we have full confidence in your ability to carry it forward with grace and excellence,” he said. He also noted that for the 2024–25 academic year, more than 200 sons and daughters of alumni benefited from legacy admissions considerations, with many receiving financial assistance, averaging 45 percent in support.
Dr. Nayla Al-Akl, dean of student affairs, urged students to embrace their role in shaping AUB’s legacy—not only preserving its traditions but also driving its future growth and impact. “A legacy is a dynamic and living system, constantly evolving with the new generation. While tradition may look at the past, a legacy always looks at the future,” she remarked. “You are now part of AUB’s legacy, and you have a big role to play. It is your job to design, advance, and elevate what this institution has to offer and what it will leave behind.”
Addressing the audience, Dr. Fadlo Khuri, president of AUB, reflected on the university’s unwavering resilience and its continued commitment to academic excellence, and highlighted AUB’s enduring role in shaping future generations despite challenges and changes.
“Your connection to AUB is very special—to your families and to this university,” he noted. “Although there have been some quite significant changes at AUB in recent years, at its heart, AUB is still the same institution that your parents or grandparents attended: an institution that is known for its resilience in the face of crises and its determination to transform the lives of men and women.”
Khuri also underscored the strength of the AUB alumni network and its lasting impact, stating, “When you graduate, you will join an extraordinary global AUB family—one that will enrich your life and is critical to the university. The interconnections between alumni and their alma mater and between alumni themselves are vital for the success and impact of AUB.”
Alumni parent Michel Bayoud (BS ’92) shared a heartfelt reflection on witnessing his daughter, Zeena, begin her journey at AUB—an occasion he had long awaited. “Parents always want the best for the children, and they build their whole lives waiting for this moment when their children cross the final bridge before launching into life,” he said. “All of us here today have actually chosen what we believe is best for our children, and that is AUB.”
Following the speeches, attendees gathered for the traditional group photo before joining a reception, concluding an evening that honored AUB’s rich tradition—bringing together generations who not only inherit its values but also shape a legacy of their own.
About AUB
Founded in 1866, the American University of Beirut bases its educational philosophy, standards, and practices on the American liberal arts model of higher education. A teaching-centered research university, AUB has more than 750 full-time faculty members and a student body of over 8000 students. AUB currently offers more than 140 programs leading to bachelor’s, master’s, MD, and PhD degrees. It provides medical education and training to students from throughout the region at its Medical Center that includes a full-service 365-bed hospital.
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