The American University of Beirut (AUB) announced the completion of the student elections for the 2023-24 academic year. These annual elections stand as a symbol of AUB’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles and robust student governance.
Across AUB’s seven faculties, 224 student candidates enthusiastically stepped into the electoral arena, competing for positions within the University Student Faculty Committee (USFC) and the Student Representative Committee (SRC). The elections witnessed the participation of 52 candidates for the USFC and 172 for the SRC, embodying the rich democratic fabric that is woven through AUB’s diverse student body.
“The 2023 student elections at the American University of Beirut were conducted vigorously, passionately, and generally quite respectfully. Of students who were eligible to vote, 59 percent registered to vote, and almost 89 percent of those actually voted. The results show a diverse group of talented candidates who will take office shortly,” said AUB President Fadlo Khuri.
“As we see with each group from year to year, they will coalesce around some important achievable goals to improve student life at the university. I am confident that the USFC and other representative student bodies will once again work with one another and the administration to improve the student experience at this world-class university,” President Khuri added.
The campaign period kickstarted on Monday, October 9, 2023, culminating the subsequent day with a spirited debate near the iconic West Hall on the AUB campus. Candidates engaged in constructive dialogues, addressing pressing student issues and unveiling their visionary platforms. This interactive forum acted as a vibrant channel through which candidates adeptly addressed insightful inquiries and concerns, facilitating a dynamic exchange of ideas among the student body. A subsequent period offered a serene interlude for reflection leading up to election day.
“Last year our student leaders were exceptionally strong, having undertaken a series of projects in a short period of time and with many challenges. They worked collaboratively, debated ideas, and questioned every decision. But when it was time to take a stand, they were brave enough to put aside personal interests and work together towards the greater good,” commented Dean of Student Affairs at the American University of Beirut Nayla Al-Akl on election day. “That is what true leadership should be, and today we are to be proud of our students and of what they have achieved. I wish all our students the best of luck in this year’s elections, and I look forward to working with them.”
Leveraging its state-of-the-art and secure online voting system, AUB ensured a seamless voting experience for students from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Thursday, October 12. The carefully engineered process underscored the university’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in its democratic practices.
“The elections are not about groups or lists, they are about students, they are about authentic leadership, the type of leadership that involves questioning and critical thinking, discussing and debating ideas for what they truly are, and having open and honest communication and discussions,” said Dean Al-Akl. “Elections are just the beginning of a journey towards leadership… and it is indeed a journey. Those who take the lead will have to question their knowledge and preconceived ideas and will need to have enough courage to explore new ones and make difficult decisions.”
In a moment charged with eager anticipation, the election results were revealed to an enthusiastic crowd outside West Hall at 6:00 pm. Simultaneously, the results were shared on the Office of Student Affairs website.
Please visit the elections page for a detailed overview of the election process and results.