Fawwaz Ulaby (BS Physics ’64) writes, “I came to AUB from IC, where I was a member of B4, the boy scout troop affiliated with IC, from 1958 to 1961. I was one of a group of 10 AUB students who continued to serve as scout leaders for B4. In summer 1962, after our first year at AUB, we joined four B4 scout leaders from our IC days and got on a ship in Beirut to travel to Marseille in France. From there, we continued by a combination of trains and boats to London in the UK. In London, we visited and stayed for a week at Baden-Powell House (now called the Queen’s Gate House), which was named for Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of scouting. This photo was taken during that most memorable trip.”
1-Nabil Kronfol (BS General ’65, MD ’69), 2-Tony Aneed, 3-Fawwaz Ulaby (BS Physics ’64), 4-Majed Shehadeh (BA Economics ’66), 5-Youssef Samaha (BA Economics ’69), 6-Nadim Abdelmalek, 7-Ziad Deeb (BS General ’65, MD ’69), 8-Issam Shammas, 9-Ziad Idriss (BS General ’66, MD ’70), 10-Samir Idriss, 11-Aref Farra (BBA ’66, MBA ’69), 12-Hisham Khartabile (BA Economics ’66), 13-Rabi Suleiman (BS General ’64, MD ’68), 14-Walid Moubarak
Phil Hedrick (JYA 1962–63), writes, “I was part of a junior year abroad (JYA) group (see photo top left) at AUB and what was then called the Beirut College for Women (now LAU) in 1962–63. Our year in Beirut, Lebanon, and in the Middle East changed our lives. We particularly remember the excellent professors we had, including Charles Malik (moral philosophy), Zeine Zeine (history of the Ottoman Empire), and Carl George (genetics and ecology). We have gotten together several times by Zoom recently. Four of us got together for an in-person ‘reunion’ in Lake Okoboji, Iowa, in summer 2023 (see second photo bottom left). Jan and Warren joined us remotely.”
Front row (left to right): Phil Hedrick, Mary (Munson) Schnittker, Kent Willis, Jan (White) Carlsson-Bull, Warren WigginsBack row (left to right): Sadie Marie (Clark) King, Anne Krohn Graham, Laura (Finch) Ziady, Carol Ann (Patlan) Minarick, Judy (Sinniger) Mantler, Charlotte Helmbold Sheard
left to right: Kent Willis, Anne Krohn Graham, Laura (Finch) Ziady, Phil Hedrick
Tarek Kettaneh (BE Engineering ’70) writes, “After teaching entrepreneurship courses at OSB for 20 years, I have retired to southern Spain where I occasionally consult on family business issues. Our three sons are all IC and AUB graduates and live in Los Angeles (Makram), Qatar (Kamal), and Madrid (Talal).”
Sharon Williams Van Rooij (Williams) (MA General ’70) writes, “Retirement? Not for me! Although I’ve retired from my full-time faculty position at George Mason University, I’m still receiving requests from journals to review articles, still facilitating a module in Mason’s Executive Development program, still keeping up with trends in the labor market and how those trends affect the L&D field, still connecting with former corporate colleagues from days gone by, and plunging into AI applications as they impact how we work. So, I’m officially announcing my unretirement and am now available for freelance projects.”
Lena Kelekian (BS Geology ’81), DST, PhD, is an internationally renowned visual artist, environmental designer, and art therapist. She is the winner of two Olympic Fine Arts gold medals at both the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics and the London 2012 Summer Olympics. Lena (seen in the photo above on the left) was recently appointed by the United Nations Development Programme as the UNDP Live Lebanon Goodwill Ambassador for Art and Development to advance and accelerate development work through art.
Hrayr Jebejian (MS Agricultural Economics ’84), DMin, writes, “After AUB, I completed my doctorate degree in theology from New York Theological University. Presently, I am the general secretary of the Bible Society in the Gulf and based in Kuwait. I have now published four books (three in Armenian and one in English) and also contributed academic papers to many academic journals and encyclopedias. I am married to Dr. Arda Boynerian-Jebejian (MA English Literature ’99). We have two children and one granddaughter.”
Dina Bayoud Kohl (BA Political Studies and Public Administration ’85) writes, “I met my German husband in Beirut. In 1987, we relocated to Bavaria, Germany, where we raised our two children. Because of my passion for Lebanese cuisine, I have taught cooking lessons at the Volkshochschule, an esteemed adult education institution, since 1995. Recognizing the significance of preserving our rich culinary heritage, I authored a cookbook, The Taste of Marjeyoun (also Le goût de Marjeyoun) in 2015, the first to focus on the regional cuisine of Marjeyoun in southern Lebanon, which is available in Lebanon. I have also been teaching classical Arabic at the University of Regensburg since 2011.”
Wadad El Housseini (BA Sociology ’88, TD ’90, MA Educational Psychology ’94) writes, “I am grateful and happy for my AUB experience, which shaped my knowledge and skills and enabled me to join Qatar University as a consultant to the VP of student affairs. I am grateful also for the professional development I have gained at QU. I am now chair of the 2024 MENASA conference for student affairs organized by NASPA, the leading association for student affairs personnel in the world, hosted by Qatar University. My two-year term as MENASA director began in April 2024.”
Roula Douglas (Azar) (BS Biology ’89) defended her doctoral thesis in the humanities, specializing in information and communication sciences, at Saint Joseph University on March 12, 2024. Following her defense, she was awarded the highest distinction, summa cum laude, with congratulations from the examination committee. Her dissertation, “The Lebanese Press through the Gender Prism: From the Visible to the Invisible,” represents a significant contribution to the field.
After earning a PhD in physical chemistry at Boston College in 1997, Lina Shebaro Germann (BS Chemistry ’90) moved to Santa Fe, where she is a STEM educator and advocate and an active community member. In 2016, Lina founded a 501(c)3 nonprofit, STEM Santa Fe, which has received multiple awards. Moreover, she is the recipient of the 2023 STEM Equity and Inclusion Award and the winner of the 2022 Mentor of the Year for New Mexico Excellence in STEM. In November 2023, Lina was elected for a six-year term as a member of the Governing Board of Santa Fe Community College.
Roula Abdel-Massih (BS Biology ’96, MS Biology ’98) writes, “With degrees from AUB and the University of Glasgow (PhD), academia has been a cherished part of my life. For nearly two decades, I had the privilege of being a faculty member at the University of Balamand, nurturing future scholars. Since moving to Michigan, I’ve embraced the incredible community in the tri-city area while raising four wonderful children with my husband. I was recently selected as one of the 100 International Science Council (ISC) Fellows, a recognition I attribute to the support of TWAS (The World Academy of Sciences), TWAS Young Affiliates Network (TYAN), and the ISC.”
Ihab Tabbara (BBA ’96) writes, “I had the incredible opportunity of delivering my TEDx talk at AUB on March 9, 2023. The experience was utterly overwhelming and exhilarating! In my talk, “Struggle, Seeds, Success after 40,” I delve into the empowering concept that failures are not setbacks but stepping stones to success. It underscores the significance of self-belief and the bravery required to step out of one’s comfort zone. The key message is clear: your time is NOW. This talk serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance, along with a positive mindset, can lead to extraordinary achievements.”
Wael Khoury (BA Psychology ’98) writes, “After graduating from AUB, I moved to the US, first to New York City, then to Florida, where I got my master’s in human resources, and finally to Tennessee. In 2008, my wife and I moved to Doha, Qatar, where I have worked with EY, S.H. Al Mana, Deloitte, and Ooredoo Group. In February 2024, I started my own consulting firm, Lopez Khoury & Associates, specializing in human resources, organizational development, and change management. We have five kids, still live in Qatar, and visit Lebanon almost yearly.”
Nisreen Jabr (BA Elementary Education ’99, Diploma Educational Leadership ’00) writes, “I currently reside in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, where I have embarked on a fulfilling career as an ESL instructor. To further expand my expertise, I have recently achieved my Ontario Certified Teacher designation. I am also working toward becoming an Ontario Certified English Language Teacher. Passionate about teaching and enriching the lives of others, I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of my students.”
Saad El Dawi (BBA ’04) writes, “20 years have passed since my graduation! In addition to a BBA, I earned an MS in marketing management from EDHEC Business School in France in 2010. During my career, I have worked in the Middle East, Europe, and West Africa in a number of fields including furniture, chemicals, and agro-industry. I am married to an AUB alumna, Ghida Gaussin (BBA ’09). We have two kids. AUB played an important role in my life, especially when it comes to personal growth. I wish one day to see my kids graduating from AUB.”
Aram Kradjian (BE Mechanical Engineering ’05) is a seasoned executive in technology and strategy currently serving as senior director of strategy and powertrain at Garrett Motion HQ, Switzerland. He was previously director of research and innovation at Jaguar Land Rover in the UK. Aram’s career also includes roles as a visiting professor at King’s College London and a management consultant at Roland Berger. He also holds an MBA from INSEAD and an MS in production systems engineering from RWTH Aachen University of Technology. Aram is passionate about innovation, technology, and clean energy. His hobbies include running and astronomy.
Maria Frangieh (MA Economics ’07), PhD, is a successful and visionary entrepreneur. She was awarded the Marketing 2.0 Influencer Award 2022 and the Great Companies Women Entrepreneur Award 2023. Maria is the founder and CEO of Socialprise, an award-winning digital marketing, training, and communications agency; Watani Initiative, which helps Lebanese businesses to grow and export their products; Working Remotely Tools, an affiliate marketing website helping people work remotely more efficiently; Plan Ahead Calendar, showcasing digital calendars to help businesses never miss an event; and Shop the Twist, an online marketplace and trading business offering SMEs access to big markets.
Samar Akkou (BBA ’08) writes, “With all of life’s ups and downs, I am blessed to be where I am today. In March 2020, I moved to Dubai, a place that I now call home, where I am surrounded by my immediate family and my soon-to-be husband. I work at Majid Al Futtaim as senior manager of leasing. In 2014, I became the first woman in the Middle East to achieve the CSM designation at the young age of 26! I have adopted education as part of my contribution to this industry, sharing my knowledge and expertise with the upcoming generations.”
Rayan Zahr (BE Electrical and Computer Engineering ’10) writes, “I have been living in Melbourne since 2017 and am currently working as a technical director with Mott MacDonald, where I lead multidisciplinary engineering teams for the design of buildings and precincts. I’ve got an adorable two-and-a-half-year-old son, who is the joy of my life. In my free time, I enjoy dancing salsa—a hobby I was introduced to in 2009 when I was a member of the AUB Latino Dance Club, which is still going strong! I’m also a Latin DJ and vinyl collector!”
Racha Abou Chahine (MSN Nursing Administration and Management ’11) writes, “I am currently the director of quality and risk management at Fakeeh University Hospital in the UAE. With an additional master’s degree in applied research, international certification in CPHQ, and a fellowship in ISQua, I am committed to making a difference. I am currently pursuing a doctorate in business administration. Reflecting on AUB’s nurturing of a curious mind and lifelong learning mindset, I am grateful for the foundation it provided. This ethos continues to drive my pursuit of excellence and innovation in healthcare management, as I strive to positively impact the world.”
El Zahraa Majed (BS Medical Laboratory Sciences ’13, MPH ’15) writes, “I am excited to announce that I have successfully defended my PhD in health promotion from Queen’s University in Canada!”
Samer Al Halteh (BA Public Administration ’14) writes, “My time at AUB was marred by personal tragedy when I lost my father during my second semester. This loss nearly shattered my resolve to continue my studies, but the thought of fulfilling my father’s dream for me to graduate from AUB gave me the strength to persevere. It was not an easy journey, but one that taught me the true meaning of resilience. Since graduating from AUB, I have taken the helm of our family business, CGFX. On a personal note, 2022 marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life as I married my better half, Joelle. We are expecting our first child this September.”
Nicolas Hawat (BS Computer Science ’14) writes, “It has been a decade since my graduation from AUB. I have enjoyed a rewarding career in trading software with Murex and BP, as well as some entrepreneurial experiences a few years ago when I was still in Lebanon. I am currently based in London and am transitioning to a digital nomad lifestyle. I’ve launched my own venture, Start Me Up Ai, dedicated to providing reliable tech solutions to start-ups and businesses. Leveraging AI, I aim to help entities overcome tech challenges and achieve their goals. I’m constantly learning and adapting to ensure my clients receive top-tier, future-ready applications.”
Amir R. Kamra (BS Construction Engineering ’14) writes, “After 10 years of working as an engineer and consultant in Dubai, I decided to pursue my lifelong passion and moved to Paris to join Le Cordon Bleu Paris, where I am pursuing my Grand Diplôme® in Cuisine and Pâtisserie. I currently sit for exams in the kitchen, but I truly miss Bechtel Wing D and Nicely 500 exam halls! Thanks to AUB and MSFEA, which taught me to be curious, experiment, and push my boundaries, I am able to achieve any goal I want in life! As a globetrotter, I am on a journey to travel to 100 countries by 2027. I have visited 54 countries so far.”
Khoudor Keniar (BE Mechanical Engineering ’13, ME Mechanical Engineering ’14) writes, “After graduation, I moved to Atlanta, Georgia, to attend Georgia Tech, where I earned my PhD in 2020. Currently, I live in California with my wife. I work on accelerating society’s transition to sustainable energy by enabling EVs at Tesla. I am extremely grateful to AUB for everything it taught me and for some of the long-lasting friendships with colleagues and mentors.”
Talal Chami (MS Media Studies ’15) is a Colombian-born Lebanese and an accomplished media strategist with extensive experience in the MENA region. A published author, blogger, and avid regional analyst and researcher, Talal recently published Improvisation/s—On-Peppermint Frappé-For-Munich-1972 Vol.1. He is the founder of The Axles of My Wagon Wheels blog, where he publishes short-loops in one-act, an innovative fiction concept of his own creation. He is an editorial board member of Wendigo.co, a literary journal/platform founded to publish exciting, inventive, and diverse authors and stories. He is also an editorial team member of Liberum, a platform of uncensored ideas and stories that do not necessarily make it to mainstream media.
Mariam Rakka (BE Computer and Communications Engineering ’20) writes, “Four years after graduating from AUB, I find myself amidst Arizona’s breathtaking Cardiac Canyon sand rock formations. The creativity embedded in these natural wonders evokes a nostalgic echo of my undergraduate days at AUB. Here, amidst the rugged beauty, I rediscover the same spirit of exploration and innovation that thrived within AUB’s creative corridors. Each rock formation tells a story of resilience and adaptation, reminiscent of the challenges we faced and conquered during our academic journey—a testament to the enduring impact of AUB’s nurturing environment, guiding us to seek inspiration in every corner of the world.”
Mariam Rakka (BE Computer and Communications Engineering ’20) writes, “Four years after graduating from AUB, I find myself amidst Arizona’s breathtaking Cardiac Canyon sand rock formations. The creativity embedded in these natural wonders evokes a nostalgic echo of my undergraduate days at AUB. Here, amidst the rugged beauty, I rediscover the same spirit of exploration and innovation that thrived within AUB’s creative corridors. Each rock formation tells a story of resilience and adaptation, reminiscent of the challenges we faced and conquered during our academic journey—a testament to the enduring impact of AUB’s nurturing environment, guiding us to seek inspiration in every corner of the world.”
Oday Salman (BS Biology ’16, MD ’20) writes, “Since graduating from medical school, I have been on an exciting journey, initially spending two years at the AUBMC Department of Emergency Medicine honing my skills in a high-pressure environment. My passion for research then led me to the University of Pennsylvania, where I focused on translational cardiovascular research, mainly in genomics and proteomics of heart failure and arterial stiffness, which has been both challenging and exceedingly rewarding. I’ve recently started a new chapter by matching into a categorical internal medicine residency in the US, ready to further my commitment to improving healthcare outcomes, both clinically and academically.”
Israa Azzam (ME Mechanical Engineering ’21) writes, “After completing my ME degree, I joined the Purdue University School of Engineering Technology (SOET) as a visiting scholar. This experience inspired me to enroll in Purdue’s PhD program in mechanical engineering technology. Currently, I am a research assistant on the NSF-funded project Research Initiation: Developing Spatial Visualization and Understanding of Complex Systems via Interactive Mixed Reality Modules. I lead research on improving cognitive skills and training experiences by developing extended reality (XR) platforms. I have received recognition for my contributions, including the 2024 Bravo Award for Employee Recognition and induction into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.”
Marwa Aboumourad (MS Evolutionary Biology ’22) writes, “I have embarked on a thrilling journey in Cancun, Mexico, alongside my husband and our two adventurous kids. Amidst the beauty of the Riviera Maya, I’m also diving deep into the realm of knowledge, pursuing a PhD program in evolutionary biology at Wayne State University. Exciting times indeed, as we explore the wonders of the world while unraveling the mysteries of science. I am grateful for the foundation laid at AUB, shaping both my personal and professional endeavors.”
Christian Dagher (RESDT ’22) writes, “After completing my OBGYN residency at AUBMC, I embarked to Lyon, France, for advanced training at the Hospices Civils de Lyon. This enriching experience paved the way for my subsequent move to the US, where I commenced a two-year research fellowship in GYN oncology at the prestigious Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Simultaneously, I was accepted to Weill Cornell Medicine, where I am pursuing a master’s degree in clinical epidemiology and health services research. My recent match into an OBGYN program marks a significant milestone, aligning with my aspiration to specialize further in GYN oncology in the United States.”
Cynthia Antossian (MS Chemistry ’23) writes, “After graduating from AUB, I moved to Zurich, Switzerland, in October. I am currently pursuing a PhD degree in environmental sciences at the Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science at ETH Zurich. I am also working as a doctoral researcher in the field of atmospheric chemistry and performing experiments to better understand the physico-chemical properties of organic aerosol particles during photolytic and oxidant-driven aging processes.”
Ghinwa Fayyad (BA Media and Communications ’23) writes, “I am currently doing a master’s in creative direction, content, and branding at IE University in Madrid! I am also the class representative for my class of 2023–24. I’ll be graduating in July!”
Partnerships for AUB
The Palestinian Students Fund (PSF) has been supporting individual AUB students since 1973, more than 50 years ago. In 2010, AUB and PSF established a formal partnership that has opened doors and made dreams come true for almost 200 Palestinian students who have received scholarships totaling more than $2.3 million. In addition to providing financial support, PSF also organizes career guidance and counseling, life skills training, and other assistance that students might need to ensure that they can take full advantage of a university education. Alumna Wafa El Yassir (BBA ’78), who is general director of PSF, says, “PSF believes that joining AUB is the best opportunity that a Palestinian refugee youth can have. AUB provides students with a quality education and the skills they need. It also encourages personal development. AUB graduates are empowered, outspoken, and self-confident. That is why we partner with AUB.”