& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013

FEATURES CONTENTS

8 Beirut campus gets new addition 4 Mind Games 9 Edgar de Picciotto invests in LAU The psychology of performing 10 LAU wins third USP Grant under pressure 11 LAU takes up residence in Manhattan The difference between crippling anxiety and 16 Updates & Awards motivational stress is a fine line, especially when 17 Youssef Comair appointed dean of SOM performing tasks that require vast amounts of 18 Pierre Zalloua new dean of SOP mental and physical acuity. Mehrnoush Shafiei 19 Elie Haddad brings new perspectives to SArD speaks to Lebanese climber Maxime Chaya about his Mt. Everest summit and his mental steeliness. 20 UMC-RH Endoscopy Unit 23 Ashrafieh Bombing 24 Faculty Op-Ed 12 25 LAU in Ghana For Love of the Game 26 Dihzahyners The rocky history of sports in Lebanon 27 Athletic Directors Ongoing conflicts and socioeconomic events have stunted 28 LAU in Beirut Marathon the growth and development of sports in Lebanon, preventing the country from having the opportunity to 29 Confronting sexual identity create a significant sports culture, including a solid fan base, 30 LAU helps out at VOC training facilities and only a few international sports stars. 31 The business of U.S. college athletics Paige Kollock reports. 36 Campus Notes 39 Farewell to Curtis Brown 40 New Faculty 42 LAU faculty basketball 32 Rehab, the Good Kind 43 Student laptop orchestra The rise and shine of sports medicine 44 LAU sports teams around the world While orthopedic surgeons are at the helm of the 46 LAU wins website award surgical treatment of sports related injuries, sports 47 TEDxLAU medicine physicians are perpetually indispensable for the diagnosis, management and post-operative 48 MarCom builds internship program treatment of them. Muriel Kahwagi reports on the 49 Alumni Events pivotalrole of this growing field. 50 Alumni News 52 Why I Give Back

page 1 LAU Magazine & Alumni Bulletin Volume 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013

President Wherever You Go Joseph G. Jabbra Editorial Advisory Board LAU Magazine is your platform to share photos and news about Peggy Hanna, Assistant Vice President, MarCom yourself, your family and your friends. We encourage you to Abdallah Al Khal, Executive Director, Alumni update us on your professional and personal activities and Relations achievements—from wherever you are! Gregory Houle, Manager, Advancement Communications Edward Shiner, Director, Alumni and Special Projects Managing Editor Paige Kollock Associate Editor Zeina Abdallah Writers Linda Dahdah Curtis Brown Gregory Houle Muriel Kahwagi Dalila Mahdawi Mehrnoush Shafiei Contributors Manwa Ghanoum Sana Kouatly John MacDonald Ghada Majed Nayla Abou Merhi Moujaes Editorial Assistants Nour Abdel Wahab Rafael Babikian Afkar Barakeh Farrah Berro Help Tell Our History Nathalie Hamadeh Chrystel Hobeika We welcome news from alumni, friends, supporters and current and former Alan Keyrouz faculty and staff representing all the university’s current and former schools Reem Stetieh and colleges. Submit your stories and photos for inclusion in LAU’s online Graphic Designer Marianne Amkieh Siblini and print publications. Photographers Zeina Abdallah Submit to: Afkar Barakeh [email protected], or Emile Ghazal Wael Ladki Marketing and Communications Department New York Office Bassam Lahoud Lebanese American University Lebanese American University Yehia Malla P.O. Box 13-5053/F24 475 Riverside Drive #1846 Anthony Saoud Chouran, Beirut 1102-2801, Lebanon New York, NY 10115-0065 Mehrnoush Shafiei

Letters to the Editor “ I loved the fashion issue of LAU magazine. The content was educational, LAU Magazine is published quarterly by the Marketing and Communications Department at informative and academically inspiring. It was a fantastic experience dealing with LAU and is distributed free of charge to alumni, the communication team at LAU during the development of the article about students, staff, faculty, friends and supporters ELIE SAAB. From the outset, our relationship was based on trust and transparency. worldwide. There was a mutual understanding and respect, and we shared common views and Direct comments can be sent to [email protected]. professionalism, which is why the article turned out to be enriching, interesting to read, and representative of the image of ELIE SAAB.” LAU Magazine & Alumni Bulletin —Rafif Safadi, Communication Manager, MENA, ELIE SAAB Marketing and Communications Department Lebanese American University P.O. Box 13-5053/F24 “ Thank you all so much for producing such an excellent edition, a showpiece to be Chouran, Beirut 1102-2801 – Lebanon Tel. +961 1 786 456 ext 1940 /1917 proud of. Best wishes.” —Ruth Maalouf, Lecturer, School of Architecture and Design Fax. +961 1 786 470

New York Office Connect with LAU through: Special Thanks 475 Riverside Drive #1846 MarCom would like to extend a special thanks to LAU athletic New York, NY 10115-0065 directors Sami A Garabedian and Joe Moujaes for their tireless Tel. +1 212 870 2592 - Fax +1 212 870 2762 help with this issue. From interviews to sources to pictures and background information, they were an integral part of the magazine and we could not have done it without their valuable expertise. President Joseph G. Jabbra γυμνάσιον ceremonies aswellgreatworksofpoetry, evenyieldingawayofmarkinghistoricaltime, inOlympiads. The For the Ancient Greekssportswereanaestheticritualcloselylinkedtomusicandart. They occasionedsacred Dear friends, From thePresident’s Desk nationalism. There isnoreasonitcouldn’tplaysuch aneededroleintheLebanonof21 history, athleticcompetitionhasfosteredgraceful, productive, idealistic, inclusiveand non-jingoisticformsof generation beforethecivilrightsmovement seizedthenationalimagination.Indeedatsomanypointsinworld States brokethe “color barrier”movedsports yearsbeforeit in public schools, toraciallyintegrateits a full and for integration, pluralismandtranscendence of differences—betheseracial, cultural, orreligious. The United will everyfouryearsinOlympia, andinthemodern worldcompetitivesportscontinuetobeavanguardforce and contemporarymoment. The warringcity-statesof Ancient Greeceputasidetheirarmstocompetewithgood Finally, sportsplayaroleinthehealthofnation, somethingofcriticalimportancetoLebanoninitsrecenthistory major newsportsfacility ontheBybloscampus. impassioned bytheveryidealsI’ve endeavoredtoarticulatehere, directedalavishgift towardconstructionofa and withtheiralmamater;evenstimulatesourdonorbase.Just thisyearagenerous friendoftheuniversity, here andabroad;awakensschool spirit amongourworldwidealumnibase, deepeningtheirbondswitheach other be beneficialtothehealthofinstitution. Athletic competitionenhancesourlinkswithotheruniversities, both to instillingself-disciplinefosteringfair-mindedness andmagnanimityvis-à-visone’srivals—theycanalso If sportscanbeintegraltothepsychological developmentofstudentsincountlessways—frombuildingcharacter collective whole. sound mindinahealthybody. This idealweextendtoeach andeverystudentaswelltothebodya gifted individual athletes, however, ourprimary commitment is to the principle of mens sana incorpore sano — a in theSummerOlympicsLondon. As proudasweareofthecompetitiveexcellenceLAU’s teamsandhighly entire universitycommunitywasthrilledthisyeartoseeanLAU student, Karen Shammas, representingLebanon rugby andtennistobasketballvolleyball, yearafter yearwinningnationalandregionalchampionships. The long beendedicatedtothecentralityofathleticsinuniversitylife.Ourteamshaveexcelledeverythingfrom emphasizes student-centeredness, educationofthewholeperson, andthedevelopmentoffuture leaders—has healthy citizenryandthecultivationofhumanisminitsbroadestsense.LAU —whoseverymissionstatement This isallthemoreimportantinauniversitysetting, devotedasitistothelifeofmind, theformationofa stamina andgrace. body humanismcelebratedandexaltedbytheancients, theirarticulatewonderinthepresenceoffeatsspeed, can seemlittlemorethanpublicentertainmentorprivateexercise, wewoulddowelltorememberthemind- source ofourmodernwordsforbothagrammarschool andafitnesscenter. Incontemporary life, whenathletics much pleasureandcauseforreflection asithasme. the athleticachievements thathave giventheLAU communitysuch prideinrecentyears. Ihopeitbringsyouas — andoften overlooked —implicationsformodern medicine, psychology andsociology. Italsowarmlycelebrates This issueofLAU Magazine explorestheculturalandeconomicfoundationofsports, aswelltheirsignificant — “gymnasium” —wasthesettingforathleticaswellintellectualpursuits;veryword isthe st century. page 3 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Mind Games The psychology of performing FEATURE under pressure By Mehrnoush Shafiei

page 4 Maxime Chaya,Maxime thefirst Lebanese athlete to climbMount Everest quite minimal. competitors’ physical prowess are instances, differences between narrowest ofmargins —inmany comesand defeatdowntothe often you, thedifference triumph between athleteswilltell As mostworld-class he set out to climb the highest peak oneachcontinent.he setouttoclimb thehighestpeak which Challenge”in Summits “Seven Audi-sponsored Bank the kept the famous mountaineer up at night before he embarked on moments ofdoubt. toughness and99percent istheresult ofmentaltoughness.” physical of result the is percent “one only that insists Chaya yet athletic talent is somehow the result of innate ability or genetics, they strivetoifputtheirmindit. what do can anyone that implying — successes past his about nonchalantly speaks and — air unaffected an has he athletics, matter-of-factcertainty. ofIndeed, world the in fluency his forall solutions,”have with says definition he by challenge.“Problems for primed world a in living Armageddon. “That should while not an be excuse … ever,” goals he stresses. long-term make to some time,” helaments. quite for region this of feature a been has that instability the to due potential full their achieving not for excuses make people young some that me frustrates really “It speeches. motivational give to universities and schools visits he when country the over all youth to transmits he message everyone”fora Everest — an something thatunderscores accomplishments. hisjaw-dropping on extreme mountain climbing without any previous experience, a took pressure. knows Chaya under he perform to how — about two level or thing sea at than thinner percent 70 is air the — zone” “death the as to referred commonly environment an survived and level sea above 8,850m climbed consideringChaya distillation.And crystalline most formula’s that is — summit its on flag country’s the plant proudly and Everest Mount colossal mental is pack the from fortitude andcomposure underpressure. apart winner the sets what Rather, e ee te ot aig n tlne o ahee have athletes “What am I of doing? This is talented crazy,” and was a daring thought that occasionally most the even Yet that idea the to subscribe many unwittingly, or Wittingly A difficult is it that perception the rejects categorically Chaya is “There mantra the by lives Chaya figure, national a Now the climb to athlete Lebanese first the — Chaya Maxime bon vivantbon with a quick smile and easy banter, Chaya loves a page 5 page >

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 FEATURE

Mind Games

Chaya explains that more often than not, when faced with and academic pressure, Sarouphim offers insights on how our seemingly insurmountable physical challenges, sometimes the brains function under stress. “The heart beats faster and pupils most powerful strategy can be simply “Don’t think” — or, as dilate; both reactions are survival mechanisms that are a result of mountaineers like to say, “Plan the climb, then climb the plan.” evolutionary psychology — we experience improved vision as our This message pivots on the idea that the more painstakingly one eyes dilate, and a flush red face serves as a warning for enemies prepares prior to the event, the greater the chances of being fully to flee,” she explains. ready on the big day. “Our bodies also react to pressure by secreting adrenaline — Chaya explains that our thoughts sometimes overwhelm us the hormone that prepares our bodies for flight or fight,” she adds. and serve as obstacles to reaching our goals. “Listen to your gut,” The most important point to understand, explains Sarouphim, is he says. “What is key is to prevent fear from hindering your ability that our bodies are not psychologically intelligent — we react and your focus.” the exact same way regardless of the situation, “whether we are “Feeling a certain amount of anxiety is good — everyone feels speaking in public, we are confronted by a lion or we see our it, even the most experienced of athletes,” he explains. “Of course, lover,” she says. it cannot be so much that it pushes you over the edge.” “It is our minds that interpret these reactions. And the “Anxiety in and of itself is not necessarily a bad thing,” concurs fascinating thing is that it is different from person to person. Dr. Ketty Sarouphim, associate professor of psychology and There is no objective reality; it is what you perceive.” education at the Department of Social Sciences at LAU Beirut. How can some students and athletes cope under pressure Her research focuses on measuring intelligence and identifying while others cannot? “Doing well on exams is not just a measure gifted students, as well as developing a program for the education of intelligence but has to do with test anxiety. In an exam of gifted students in Lebanese schools. situation, students with confidence see this as an opportunity to Sarouphim trumpets the merits of Chaya’s “Don’t think” shine. Students who typically don’t do well see it as yet another strategy, explaining that high-pressure situations require proper opportunity to fail,” explains Sarouphim. So how can we train allocation of neural resources. Referring to the classic Yerkes- our minds to limit performance anxiety? Sarouphim suggests Dodson Law (1908), she explains that a certain amount of anxiety preparing in an environment that mimics that of test day. may actually facilitate performance. However, once a particular In addition, there’s the strategy of creating a self-fulfilling threshold is reached, the reverse is true; the anxiety at that point prophecy. When Mohammad Ali declared, “I am the greatest!” he becomes debilitating. was setting himself up to win, says Sarouphim. Recognizing the many similarities between athletic pressure Indeed, the most well-known boxer of all time said, “I am the

page 6 being able to tune down the brain’s activity during the event to event the during activity brain’s the down tune to able being just do.’” what makes tick. people performance enhancement growth,” andpersonal shesays. but coach, a asanamateurpsychologistwell. occasionally as merely act not does she clients, her to comes it when that gym,recognizesKaroui the at her classes fitness group during loudspeaker a here!” from up all “It’s barks, she as temple Hamra,her in Beirut.to PointingZone Fitness at trainer and react instinctively. field, their minds and arebodies quick to recognize the challenge thinking.without playingor court the on arises situation a When train continuously so that they can at high perform levels almost can control testanxiety.” you and thoughts positive with it fill — time a at fewthoughts a only accommodate nerves.cancontrol your memory Short-term over prepare. it enough, I would convince the world that I really was the greatest.” greatest,was.said I I knew if beforeI that even figured that I said I etl il oe i iprat bt t en to things: two means it but important, is power will Mental and thinking ‘stop simply is clients my to advice best “My promoting about it’s in versed well is she steeliness her underneath — that clear is It exercise about just not is “It This line of thought is quite familiar to Mira Karoui, a personal “It really isallinyourhead,” saysSarouphim. they — adopt athletes strategy the to similar is advice This can you exam the to come you when that so “Youstudy over Another reliable strategy, according to Sarouphim, is to simply insists Karoui. “Practice,practice,done? practice,” than said easier it Is bodies. — acontrolled mindiswhatyouwant.” exercises also help control the mind. “A jumping mind is not good line.”the finish ateyes, yourself your imagine Close key:them. is “Visualization of all of combination a agility, or increase gain weight, to lose muscle, is it whether goal, their on focus to clients her inspire relaxation methods, saysKaroui. and visualization setting, goal including this, do to ways many peak.trainingour the at process ensureperform to we There are during up it turn to able being anxiety, and performance limit ehp w sol tan u mns ie tlts ri their train athletes like minds our train should we Perhaps relaxation doing and meditation practicing that adds Karoui “No negativethoughtsallowedwhatsoever,” shesays. to blinders horse of imagery the uses trainer, Karoui a As page 7 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 When Philanthropy and Education Meet

When Philanthropy and Education Meet By Dalila Mahdawi

LAU has procured the former headquarters scarce,” said Jabbra. “We are therefore Gezairi Transport has a of leading regional shipping company overjoyed to have the Gezairi premises so Gezairi Transport, located on Sadat Street close to our campus.” It will be used for passion for education in the heart of Beirut’s famous Hamra classrooms and offices. and philanthropy, which district. The building is comprised of a “This partnership is meaningful because three-floor penthouse, a large theater of the passion that the founder of Gezairi intersects with our and offices. The property also includes a Transport has for giving back to society dedication to providing school, which Gezairi Transport donated and his daughter’s commitment to after relocating to Downtown Beirut. continuing this legacy,” said Jabbra. “This our students with the LAU President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra principle of providing nothing less than the called the acquisition a “dream come true” best to the community has always been best education possible.” and said the gift of the school would help shared by LAU and is something we strive —Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra foster a stimulating learning environment to continue achieving. We at LAU consider for students and faculty alike. “LAU is this a step forward in the continuation of a student-centered university, and it is the expansion plans, which we started in of the utmost importance for us to give 2006 by acquiring new land.” our students the very best facilities that The partnership with LAU “presented we can,” he said. ‘’The Gezairi property the perfect opportunity for us to carry provides us with a chance to realize this on the legacy of the founder of Gezairi quest, and I couldn’t be more delighted by Transport,” said Mona Bou Azza Bawarshi, this wonderful opportunity.” the company’s chairperson and CEO. Demand for an LAU education has Abdul-Salam Bou Azza Al Gezairi set increased by 48 percent over the last up Gezairi Transport in 1945, and it decade, with 8,273 students enrolled in has grown into one of the leading fall 2011 compared to 5,572 in 2001. international freight forwarding and To fulfill the university’s promise of shipping companies in the Arab world. providing excellent learning opportunities His name will remain on the LAU office to the youth of Lebanon, the MENA building. region and beyond, two new schools “Gezairi Transport has a passion for have been inaugurated – the Gilbert and education and philanthropy, which Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine intersects with our dedication to providing and the Alice Ramez Chagoury School of our students with the best education Nursing. LAU is proud of such growth, but possible and to remain a beacon of additional space in Beirut is required in knowledge in the region,” Jabbra said. order to ensure that LAU’s commitment to quality education is complemented by quality facilities. Across LAU, infrastructure is continuously upgraded to offer students state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms, theaters and sports facilities, and to ensure the university remains a regional leader when it comes to learning and advancement. The hope is that acquisitions like the Gezairi premises will help keep LAU an attractive institution for students and inspire students and faculty for decades to come. “Facilities are very important. In the area of Beirut where LAU is located, Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra, Mr. Raymond Audi and Mrs. Mona Bawarshi sign the agreement. property is also very expensive and page 8 talking about.” are you what understand absolutely must you investments, recommend and client a of hand the hold to able success.“To be financial of hallmarks true the are vision needs, economicconductand personal principled client an of that understanding insisted intimate who Picciotto, extraordinary de said of images money,” about only not wealth,is “banking up conjures were professions fillers,” pocket “poor those heturnedtobanking. realizing After engineering. mechanical and chemistry study to 18 age at Europe for left Picciotto de centuries, three for world Arab the in traded has that family merchant Italian an Economy”.World the of Futureinto Lebanon in Born the on Vision My and Banking in Journey Personal “My entitled, lecture October his began he as Picciotto de said crisis. financial hall todiscusstheglobal out of the boardroom and into LAU lecture “the financial Geneva”, virtuoso Edgar of de Picciotto recently in stepped one bankers cleverest as described Frequently By DalilaMahdawi Hedge Fund PioneerInvestsinLAU “ I’ve followedapathinmy Donor’s Profile pleasure.” life thathasgivenmegreat lhuh h fnne nuty usually industry finance the Although me,”for day great a is this “Emotionally Said Elfakhani,Said DanieledePicciotto, NassibNasr, Edgar dePiciotto, JosephG. Jabbra h cul fr hi gnrst, Jabbra generosity,with “visionary a as Picciotto their de described for couple the banking, and finance accounting. Thanking assist will and needy LAUgifted students majoring in fund The Fund. Endowment Scholarship $500,000 the a announce of establishment formally to Daniele wife was happening,” hesaid. what understand didn’t they because hand of out get things let who ones the are they the biggestculpritsare thecentral – banks rate,any culprits.forAt looking be to time crisis. the financial beyond “Now is not the move to efforts from public the distracted Picciotto said he thought such scapegoating announced they will be cutting and or capping bonuses. De payouts employee over and Deutsche Bank buckled to public anger UBS Bank, Barclays banks European shortly after argued Picciotto de misdirected, recovery. slow a making years,beforecoming the in worsen only will situation economic bleak global the that warned banker billionaire history.”in binge creditThe biggest the of takeoff “the to International led and System Woods Monetary Breton the ended effectively actions Nixon’s gold. unilaterally to dollar to U.S. the of convertibility direct decision the cancel 1971 Nixon’s Richard President U.S. by on brought was e icot ws t A wt his with LAU at was Picciotto De was bonuses banker over Hostility recession global the said Picciotto De “ The biggestculpritsarethe remarks. “IwishLAU everysuccess.” parting his in Picciotto de pleasure,” said great me given has that life my in path a followed “I’ve Switzerland. in bank owned family- best-capitalized the as management, ranks UBP its under assets in billion $77 over fund.With hedge the of pioneers the of one being with credited is and 1969 in (UBP) Privée Bancaire Union founded Graduate Studies inGeneva. the at Institute of International and Development building apartment faculty and student a of construction the year,sponsored this also Earlier couple the school. business INSEAD renowned the at Investment Alternative in Chair Picciotto de the founded had they noting leaders, commitment to supporting future financial such ahumblewaytoourstudents.” comecaliber to the university in and speak your of someone have to important is very box.” “It added: the he Picciotto, outside de Addressing thinking for knack a happening.” didn’t understandwhatwas out ofhandbecausethey the oneswholetthingsget central banks–theyare o a ws ctzn Egr e Picciotto de Edgar citizen, Swiss a Now Picciottos’ de the hailed Jabbra page 9 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 USP III - USAID

This fall, LAU became the only university Ayyad, a second-year communication arts An Enduring in Lebanon to receive a prestigious major, is one of last year’s USP recipients. American scholarship grant for the third She credits the program with opening consecutive year. doors for her. “If I hadn’t gotten the Partnership The University Scholarship Program scholarship I would have had to work really (USP), administered by the United States hard in a part-time job, and I wouldn’t be LAU becomes Agency for International Development able to give my studies the attention I (USAID), has been awarded $9.5 can give them now,” she says. “I might not only university in million dollars, which will go toward even have been able to go to university.” providing comprehensive scholarships Stories like Ayyad’s highlight just how Lebanon to receive to 85 outstanding but economically important programs like USP are to LAU, disadvantaged students from public says Elie Samia, executive director of the USAID grant for schools across Lebanon. The scholarships Outreach and Civic Engagement unit cover tuition fees, leadership and civic and USP program manager. “LAU cares third year running engagement training, medical insurance, about providing equality of opportunity housing expenses, book costs, and a to the most underprivileged students in By Dalila Mahdawi monthly stipend. The previous grant, worth society. Our university is a meritocracy par $7.4 million, provided scholarships for 53 excellence.” students. USP students are not only ambassadors LAU President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra is of the public education system but of exceptionally proud of the university’s the U.S. commitment to a peaceful and continuing success in obtaining the prosperous Lebanon, notes USAID Mission grant. “The fact that USAID renewed Director Azza El-Abd. She urges USP its partnership with us demonstrates students to take full advantage of their recognition of LAU’s commitment to time at LAU. “Transfer your knowledge and empowering gifted but needy students share it with your communities. But also through quality education,” he says. The have fun – join clubs and play sports.” grant especially targets students with track Since its introduction in 2010, USP has records of serving their communities. become highly competitive, according to “We are part and parcel of society, which Assistant Vice President for Enrollment means that we must dedicate some of our Management Abdo Ghié, explaining how time to giving back to our communities LAU selected the 53 students from among and to helping find solutions to some of 1,017 applicants. the most important challenges in society,” Joe Karam, a civil engineering student notes Jabbra. and USP recipient, encourages incoming According to Dr. Sonia Y. Hajjar, assistant scholars to take advantage of extra- vice president for finance, budget and curricular activities. “One of the best grants at LAU, USP is an important experiences for me has been Model United component of the university’s ongoing Nations,” he says, referring to one of LAU’s efforts to increase student assistance. vibrant programs designed to nurture “We are particularly proud that we are students’ negotiation, leadership and able, with the partnership of USAID, to diplomacy skills. offer equal education opportunities to Vice President for Student Development needy students who have excelled in high and Enrollment Management Dr. Elise school and who are keen to pursue higher Salem says the accomplishments of last education,” she says. year’s USP scholars have given LAU high More than just a scholarship, USP expectations for incoming students. provides students with mentors and a “Moreover, scholarships based on merit close-knit community to guide them means excellent students in the classroom through their journey at LAU. Zaynab and higher standards of education.”

page 10 That Never That Never Waking Up Waking Up campus in Midtown campus inMidtown in the City in theCity three-story building in the buildinginthe three-story world howfar we’vecome and howfar weintendto property forproperty mini- go as a global university.”go asaglobal “This a pivotal moment “This apivotalmoment Jabbra, announcingthe “It demonstrates tothe President Dr. JosephG. heart ofNewYorkheart City. recent acquisition ofa LAU acquires for LAU,” saysLAU Sleeps Manhattan By JohnMacdonald

A’ ga o icesn inter-cultural increasing of goal LAU’s conflict literature, resolution, andcomparative law. and language Eastern banking, Arabic Islamic issues, Middle gender the studies, including for strength academic university, of areas in courses offer will campus,LAU new the At exchange. of types cross- other and with. for enrollment talks allow would in partnerships already The is LAU which of both University, York New and Columbia University as such schools York New top with partnerships planned of series a are itself a‘hottopic,’ ourrole in isevengreater.” is that American area an an in operating institution As borders. beyond and walls way our extends and responsibility village, global our the now is town the gown.’ Well, and ‘town of responsibilities academic of onuniversitycommunities.globalization impact the recognizing curve in the of ahead is LAU that stressing history,”recent our proudly,in adds Jabbra the most important strategic achievements of one City.Yorkis New It in courses offer university of its kind to open a campus and to Lebanon. travel to unable are they if even resources LAU’s on draw to students American and allowing States United the campus,in study to LAUstudents satellite also a will as It function space. accessible more and larger a with office York New existing the replace than more much do will building new the Street, 46th East 211 at Located The New York campus will also advance also will campusYork New The expansion the to crucial Strategically “People the reciprocalused to talk about American overseas first the be will “LAU headquarters ofLAU.headquarters the building will also serve as the corporate point which at 2013, Spring be in completed to expected is Renovation internal spirit. and complete a purpose university’s the reflect to redesign and renovations undergoing currently is It 2012. February behind.” we passionately believe in, a cause we’re all vision a but move a entrepreneurial timely only not is this Ultimately, ambitions. international larger for beachhead a but something of as step seen be time,may, in which long-term, first the York is New campus assessed The venture. studied, sustainable and thoroughly a but rather whim no is this and operation, lean result ofcareful strategic planning. ties institutional and Lebanonbetween andtheUnitedStates. cultural closer fostering education, global to contributor a as LAU positioning in step early an as it describe They sustainable. the financially and be students undertaking, to advantage an prove major will program the confident a is administration such in can compete globally.” who graduate the a preparing educating person, of whole mission our of part is through cultures educationoutreach,”and between Jabbra.says “This schism this bridge to want location.“We remarkable a in opportunity educational unique a with understanding, while providing its students The building was officially purchased in purchased officially was building The very a run to LAU at known “We’re the is expansion the that adds Jabbra inherent challenges the of spite In Waking UpintheCity That NeverSleeps page 11 page

& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 For Love of

FEATURE the Game The rocky history of sports in Lebanon By Paige Kollock

Tripoli football team, Muhamad Arabi. Collection: FAI/ Mohsen Yammine. Copyright © Arab Image Foundation page 12 to hostregional games. forway spectators,the paved (1957) City forand Lebanon Sports related, sports: 1950, by and expanded,combinedseveral,therewerefive,which of most necessarilynot federations youth,” the among and schools public in education “physical emphasized who el-Solh, Rauche. of Rock the off dive to first the was 1944 in Mr.who Universe, and pay for competitions from their own pocket,” says the former he which sports himself once federations,dominated. “People used to building buy their own uniforms body both and of weightlifting president former Committee, Olympic of Lebanese president the vice Oleiwan, Malih talent,” says cultivate didn’t Football Association, provided for organization. abackbone The facilities. subsequent educational rise of federations, through starting in developed 1933 the with the be Lebanese to when sports infrastructure Mandate for an provided French system school the the of to advancement traceable is Lebanon in However, thattrend couldtochange. start stars. sports international few a only and facilitiesbase, training fan solid a the culture,including sports Lebanon significant a allowed create to not time has which country, the development in and sports growth of the stunted have events economic history,one. relativelya is short socio- and conflicts ongoing The treasure trove, butevenithasitslimitations. a is Lebanon,archive in his sports of history livingthe on authorities few of one proudly. As a says me,” has he call Sports) they question, and Youth (of Ministry the “When Lebanon. in through his stacks of papers documenting every aspect of sports athlete, seasoned shuffles a of gait the with Rustom,walks who would recognize him.” People status. a had champion the and There was no tension among the audience completelystadium wouldbe full. the match, wrestling a was 50s. there “When and 1940s the Lebanon in referee reflects back on his years as a wrestler and he different,” as Rustom, Fouad was 87-year-old recalls before ambience “The The inauguration of complexa massive sports in Beirut called 5. SwimmingandSkiing 4. Cycling, Archery andAthletics 3. Wrestling, Boxing andWeightlifting 2. Tennis andTable Tennis 1. Basketball andVolleyball LebaneseWith independence, Riad Minister Prime under and and sports, about care didn’t government the 40s, the “In sports of organization the that claim historians Sports The history of sports in Lebanon, at least the well-documented page 13 page >

& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 FEATURE

For Love of the Game

Women posing with tennis rackets. Anonymous photographer. Jean Saade, nicknamed “Al Amir Al Mansour”, wore traditional Arab Collection: FAI/ Jenny Marrash. Copyright © Arab Image Foundation costumes in the arena. He wrestled at 115 kilos at one point in his career.

In the late 1960s, however, sports development faced a serious basketball players, at that time, the country’s athletic feats were in setback due to the bankruptcy of Bank Intra in 1966 and the Arab wrestling and weightlifting, both of which were popular and didn’t Israeli war in 1967, among other factors. require state funding. The Civil War (1975-1990) was of course a dark period for sports Jean Saade, former world champion wrestler and arguably in Lebanon. “It was deadly to sports,” says Rustom. Lebanon’s most famous athlete of his time, who became legendary Despite the violence, Lebanon managed to participate in several for his signature move called “The Suplex”, remembers what it was regional games. An Olympic medal in 1980 gave war-weary patriots like to compete. a morale boost, but two years later came a low point for the “We didn’t compete for money; it was something we loved to country and for sports with the invasion by Israel, the assassination do…” says the youthful world champion, who despite being in his of President Bachir Gemayel and the destruction of Sports City, 70s, claims he is 35. which was not re-opened until 1997. After the war, like the rest of In fact, it was lack of money that led Saade to fame. At the young the country, sports became more sectarian. age of 17, he boarded a plane to France - at his expense - to find a “Since the end of the Civil War, sports and politics are very coach willing to train him. closely intertwined and various clubs have political affiliations,” “I met a local trainer and gave him my last ‘dix mille francs’ says Dr. Nadim Nassif, author of Sports Policy in Lebanon, ticking (equivalent to $100),” recalls Saade, adding that he went on to win off the club names and their sectarian affiliations. “In Lebanon, two world championships. the field is like a cake, you have all the religious communities, they Lebanese athletes have appeared 16 times in the Olympics, but want to be part of the cake,” he adds. the last medal win was 32 years ago (1980), when Hassan Ali Bchara While this phenomenon may have served the clubs well, says claimed bronze in the men’s Greco-Roman super heavyweight. Nassif, also a lecturer at Notre Dame University, it is hobbling In 1992, the International Olympic Committee decided that the formation of a national sports policy. Therefore, say sports people had to qualify to participate in the games, says Ezzat advocates, the best place to develop athletics is in schools. Kraytem, secretary general of the Lebanese Olympic Committee. Universities provide a non-political environment for athletes to “Before that, we had bigger delegations… This year was our thrive in. In fact, when it comes to sports, the Lebanese government highest delegation since the new rule was developed,” a milestone. has maintained a rather hands-off approach. And, he noted, 8 out of 10 of the 2012 participants were women, a Established only in 2000, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, until remarkable statistic for an Arab country. today, has a marginal role with the creation and implementation of One of Lebanon’s historic sports moments came in 2000 when regulations largely set by the federations themselves. the country hosted the Asian Football Confederation’s Asian Cup. The Lebanese Olympic Committee was formed in 1946, and it Football players, long popular in Lebanon, were actually the first to took no time for Lebanese athletes to display their Olympic might, establish a federation in 1933. at both the 1948 Winter Games in St. Moritz, Switzerland and at the “Football became popular here as it did in other countries in the Summer Games in London. While today, Lebanon is known for its region because it doesn’t require a big budget and can be played page 14 basketball could reach theinternational level,” hesays. Lebanese that vision had he in, because money pump to decided sport in Lebanon. The late Antoine Choueiri, an advertising tycoon, second the Byblos.1992–3,LAUwas “In at it Athletics of director up to. a sense of pride, and for the younger generation, an athlete to look Heat,Miami records,breakthe likebut teams NBA Lebanesegave for play only not Seikaly Seeing 1988. in Association) Basketball process many attribute to Rony Seikaly’s entry to the NBA (National football,eclipsed have to seems a popularity option, sport’s the as beforeby politicians anempty stadium, bore littlefruit. football game was made in 2010, but the 30 minute match, played are intermittently applied. An attempt at sectarian unity through a relaxedsport. violent own slightly,its been into have rules The but league assassination.Local domestic clubs Harriri’s aligned with Rafik different attending Premiersectarian groups former turned spectating following from matches them banned government background, background,” notasports he says. political a have clubs big the running are who people the because Cup World the of round second qualifiers, Iran beating 1-0. the to got team national the September,when in triumph recent most sport’s the with along Club.” Nejmeh with match friendly a played and Pelé (1974) Lebanon visited player Brazilian famous the after popular especially got “It Advanced Lebanon.in of development youth for Academy,institute Soccer an partner managing Saddik, Raed says anywhere,” Bsebl hd bg om t n pit, as o Moujaes, Joe point”, says one at boom big a had “Basketball effective more a been have would basketball political Perhaps Lebanese the when 2005, in setback a faced fans Football especially clear, not is Lebanon in football of future “The 2000,Saddik,and says 1970 were football for years golden The might alwayspersist, willgrow alongsidethem. butsports ended up having.” Perhaps an apt analogy for a land where problems to signup17,000runners: to participants 6,000 thisyear.more than33,000participants from it brought has and pocket, own her house,” says my Khalil, in distanceoncelong runner,a room race first the fromfunded who one from started thing whole the but (…) employees office, an have we structure.Now the have didn’t damage, butitcontinues todraw runnersfrom allover theworld. bomb avoid to order in ago years few a re-routed be year,to had tenth its in race,now the fact, marathon.In international an for of dozens with event regional major everyyear.international participants a become has which for children ages 7-17, held every year alongside the full marathon, especially race a started she when sports in youth of importance strong material and moral new generation.” a with country the provide to youth the enhancing souls,and bodies on their enhance and categories their of regardless work will “We declared, once el-Solh around otherthanwar. anationalpastime everyyearsince.”States) andhasqualified history for the world championship in Indianapolis, Indiana (United “The more“The problemshad, we we runners of number bigger the managed upheaval,still political Khalil 2005,of in amidst Even we because sponsors any have didn’t we started, we “When choice odd an seem it make might peace uneasy Lebanon’s the realized also Marathon, Beirut the of founder Khalil, May Riad ago. years many youth of potential the noticed Lebanon gel to people young allowed basketball with obsession The in time first the for qualified team national “The did. it And The earlyyears oftheBeirut Marathon. Credit: Beirut Marathon Association page 15 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 From the Boardroom

DR. PAUL F. BOULOS

Dr. Paul F. Boulos, president and chief operating officer of Innovyze, a leading global innovator of wet infrastructure modeling and simulation software and technologies, has been elected chairman of the Board of Trustees of LAU. During a celebration held by LAU in New York, University President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra hailed the appointment of Boulos as historic. “This is the first time in the history of LAU that the chairman of the Board of Trustees is an alumnus of our beloved institution,” he said. “Dr. Boulos is passionately committed to the well-being of his alma mater and to its continued success” continued Jabbra. “I received an excellent education at LAU,” said Boulos. “One that I continue to draw on each and every day. I can leave no better legacy than to work diligently to ensure that the LAU we pass on to future generations is even better than the one that so profoundly affected our lives.”

Awards and Recognitions

DR. GEORGE K. NAJJAR LAU Provost Dr. George K. Najjar received the John J. Fernandes Strategic Leadership Award presented by the Academy of Strategic and Entrepreneurial Leadership on October 11 in Las Vegas. “The importance of such an award lies in the fact that it is a recognition of a specific endeavor: strategic leadership,” says Najjar. “For this award to go to an executive officer of LAU, it reflects the global positioning of the university and the esteem in which it is held,” he adds, pointing out that the achievement coincides with the implementation of the university’s academic focused strategic plan. “On a personal level, it is gratifying that one’s efforts are being recognized. It is an impetus to strive to continue the momentum,” Najjar continues. The event took place during the annual international conference of the Allied Academies.

DR. LYNN ECKHERT Dr. Lynn Eckhert, interim dean of the Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagouri School of Medicine has been named the 2012 recipient of the Alma Dea Morani, M.D. Renaissance Woman Award. The award honors an outstanding female physician who has furthered the understanding of medicine and has made significant contributions in a field other than medicine—such as humanities, arts or social sciences. Eckhert was professor of family medicine and community health at LAU’s graduate School of Nursing. She is also an adjunct professor in public health at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and a senior lecturer in pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. “Eckhert is a pioneer in medical research, nursing and public health the world over,” says LAU President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra. Outside of her academic and medical achievements, she’s written a play called “A Lady Alone” about Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the U.S.

page 16 By LAU Staff of LAU ofMedicine School Renowned neurosurgeon becomes dean Putting Patients First rm h mlclr ilg o brain of biology molecular the from ranges which research, award-winning his prestigious several scholarly international honorsandawards. and seminal many publications adds Comair Episcopal Hospital. Luke’s St. at neurosurgery of chief as and Medicine of College Baylor neurosurgeryat of department the of chair vice as serve to Houston,to 2008, drawnback Texaswas he U.S. Center incorporated Medical neurosurgerythe standardsinto division. he In where Beirut (AUBMC), of University the techniquesthatwedeveloped,” hesays. use system nervous central the of diseases with in deal that now centers epilepsy children.“Most treat to procedure a develop helped he Surgery Epilepsy of Section the of head as Ohio,where in Clinic the Cleveland to moved later and UCLA at practice academic Canada’s with and teach to University.on McGill went He affiliated an center medical Institute, Montreal Neurological the at residency his neurosurgery undertook he Lebanon, in University U.S. the and Canada Lebanon, in cities several epilepsy spans and career academic brain Comair’s in surgery, expertise his for research. institution and teaching an in excellence on focus a with join to suited he uniquely approach, is multidisciplinary his With and the sciences.”mixture the arts between a but art, completecomplete a not is nuance. a it science,and not more “is much says, having he “Medicine,” as it sees Medicine, of School Chagoury Rose-Marie and Dr. Gilbert the of dean as Lynn Eckhert sterile and facilities.Dr. Comair,Youssefsucceeds who terminology complex coats, white in doctors intimidating of images up As dean, Comair will continue to pursue pursue to continue will dean,Comair As background, professional rich this To American the joined Comair 1997 In Joseph St. at M.D. his completing After Recognized nationally and internationally conjure might that word a “Medicine”is mind andalways putethicsfirst. mentor, rush,inquisitive never an maintain a Find them: for advice of words some has also he But healers. future LAU’s in faith to help,” hesays. decision-makers and donors who are willing U.S.,the in systems rallyto to have you but similar can are that Lebanon in systems create you perseverance, “With standards. that Lebanon cannot live up to international notion country,any own shunning their in at can large.” world the and who region the Lebanon, in values, moral contribute to the advancement of medicine and highest ethical the of physicians be to students Chicago. of University the as institutions world-class to partner the School of Medicine with such patients,”of seeking also says.is he Comair care take to is physician a as mission first money. “My by influenced often is too that now field a in studying students his in them dedicated physicians,” hesays. make to responsibility my is mission.It my failed have I then them,training I’m while me than better become don’t students “If professionals. medical of the generation nurture next to duty of sense remains a he by driven now, for but here, program neuroscience a building of dreams Comair he without research,”says. to school effectively medical contributing performing have a can you believe don’t I curriculum. lateralization ofbrain functions. on the development of language and on the research pursue to Center-Rizk plans also he Hospital, Medical acquired University LAU’s recently at technology advanced imaging the Using development. on brain radiotherapy of effects the to tumors oar a hg hps o ad great and for hopes high has Comair He encourages medical students to invest At LAU, he aims to “educate distinguished instill to hopes he trait key a is Helping Lebanon, native his in back Happily our of core the at be should “Research Dean’s Profile — Dr. Youssef Comair, deanLAU “ studentsdon’tIf becomebetter then Ihave failed my mission.” than mewhileI’m training them, school ofmedicine school page 17 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Dean’s Profile DNA for Success Eminent geneticist appointed dean of the School of Pharmacy By Curtis Brown and John MacDonald

Transitioning to his new position as dean care, his presence is comparable to that of the School of Pharmacy should be fairly of the clinician. Within a couple of years, smooth for Dr. Pierre Zalloua; after all, he we would like UMC–RH to be operating has been interim dean there since 2010. On exactly like a U.S. hospital, with clinical the other hand, he will be very busy indeed; pharmacists in every unit.” on top of his stewardship of the school, Zalloua obtained his B.S. at the American Zalloua will continue to teach genetics at University of Beirut in 1987, his master’s LAU’s School of Medicine, and serve as from San Jose State University in 1990, and adjunct associate professor at Harvard’s his Ph.D. in genetics from the University School of Public Health. of California, Davis (UC Davis) in 1996. “Research will be at the heart of my He conducted post-graduate fellowships ten-year tenure as the dean of School at UC Davis in applied biosciences and of Pharmacy,” says Zalloua. “It will be at the Harvard School of Public Health a multi-disciplinary research institute, before accepting a teaching position at the with particular emphasis on translation American University of Beirut in 2004. He research,” which, he explains, is research was ultimately drawn to LAU by its effective that has a direct impact on the community administration and the close bonds and patients. between faculty members. This emphasis on research is no “LAU has a special charm that no other surprise:.As a leading authority on the university has; there is a cohesive, familial genetics of complex diseases in Middle spirit that you don’t see anywhere else.” “Research will be at the heart of Eastern populations, Zalloua has published Zalloua’s two years as interim dean more than 60 peer-reviewed articles. Since of the School of Pharmacy were pivotal, my ten-year tenure as the dean of 2006, he has been the principal investigator as the school pursued and obtained School of Pharmacy. It will be for the MENA region of the Genographic reaccreditation from the Accreditation Project, a National Geographic-sponsored Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). It a multi-disciplinary research effort to trace historical human migrations remains the only ACPE-accredited school of institute, with particular emphasis using DNA. He has also won a major grant its kind outside the United States. on translation research.” from the Qatari National Research Fund to In spite of the demands of his position, study the genetic determinants of Type-2 Zalloua always makes time for his wife —Dr. Pierre Zalloua diabetes. and two daughters, and to produce the Zalloua has ambitious goals for occasional painting for relaxation. “The the recently reaccredited LAU School purpose,” he says, “is to forget yourself of Pharmacy. He aims to develop a and what you do. Let this be half an hour closer relationship between it and the or sometimes two hours to just use your pharmaceutical industry, ensuring that imagination.” “whenever there is something new, we Fittingly for a researcher, Zalloua keeps are at the forefront of it. This will give his optimism for the School of Pharmacy us opportunities not only in terms of and LAU measured and empirical, citing research, but also in providing health to the recent milestones for the university as well consumer.” as its trajectory of growth. “If we judge by The role of pharmacists in Lebanon has the last five years and this curve LAU has been in flux in recent years, says Zalloua, but been riding, I think it’s clear we are on a the emerging field of clinical pharmacology course to become one of the top academic will be at the foreground at the University institutions in the Middle East,” he says. Medical Center-Rizk Hospital (UMC–RH). “This is not merely an aspirational vision “If you look at the U.S. today, the clinical but a realistic one.” pharmacist is an integral part of health page 18 By JohnMacDonald creativitybetween andacademia Dr. ElieHaddadstrivestobridgethegap The MeaningofSpaces students know how to draw well and if they they drawif to and how well know students our if only satisfied not are “We Haddad. college,”technical a says not are “We field. architectural the on views general his with accordance in is school the for vision His Design. and Architecture of School the of of dean assistant to Department Design and the Architecture his of of chair all from to roles; spirit animating same this or collective level?” individual an at with associated meanings are the What it? behind is what instead but building, nice a doing by me satisfying of question a only not ecology. “It’s even culture – society, with connections its and design of underpinnings philosophic the on architecture,ratherpractical but on not focused is sub-field This Pennsylvania. University of the from theory architectural in Ph.D. and refocused master’s a himself, Haddad obtaining field, his deserting of philosophy, instead in but degree a pursue nearly drove him to abandon architecture to the philosophy behind it?’” Those questions is Where do? we things the of meaning the about ‘What me, inside question nagging constant a felt “I entirely: architecture quit almost once he fact, In archetype. genius architect-as-monomaniacal- classic the fit started people calling toaskusattendtheirjuries.” sudden a of “all Haddad, says competitions, international winning began graduates pioneer. When a as itself over architecture the summer, study the LAU’s and program travel established to and students allow to studios workshops, mobile of establishment short-term and visiting appointments long-term for in both scholars, bring to strategies a innovative of stages earliest renaissance.fewa of years, the matter a In with of in component university new a a was Department Design Interior and Architecture the and buildings, two only had campus the 1994, in Byblos LAU at arrived Haddad Elie When h itopcie add a brought has Haddad introspective The Haddad, and restrained, modest not does is justamatteroftime. history own its making LAU that confident is Dr. reputation, Haddad burnished a and administration the spectacular of support the its growth, With history.” their only they have us, over edge an have doesn’t competition “the view, his in school; the interior design. Weall didthistogether.” from and architecture fromarts, fine from people with collectivity a as it of think to like school,”“I states.the he in promotion share,fair and their programsattention get and departments the all that so hard very ample attention. receive “As a school dean I will try to that work the of ensuring components the all to committed is Haddad LAU a pillarthere for nearly18years.” says did,” he President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra. when “He has been architecture department the joined fortunate Haddad Elie were that “We respectively. 1998, and 1995 in UPenn from Ph.D. and his M.S. and 1991, in Cincinnati of the University from Architecture of Science in M.S. his 1989, in College Architectural Boston from degree Architecture of Bachelor his obtained of He Architecture. History Contemporary Critical A book: forthcoming the edited and Arabic, into Autobiograpy Scientific A Rossi’s Aldo architect winning Prize- Pritzker translated articles, journal ideas andculture.” soundly. This is not software enough. What we’re about is also their use to how know “ We onlyifour are not satisfied enough.”—Dr. Haddad Elie soundly.their software This isnot and ifthey knowhow to use students knowhow to draw well He is confident in the bright future of of future bright the in confident is He training, by architect an is he Although numerous published has Haddad Dean’s Profile Haddad withstudentsinan studio’‘open session page 19 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 UMC–RH

Far-Reaching Metamorphosis UMC-RH gets ahead with revamped endoscopy unit By Muriel Kahwagi

The endoscopy unit at University Medical Center – Rizk expect,” says Nawal Issa, a 38-year-old patient who presented to Hospital (UMC – RH) has come a long way since its timid, albeit the endoscopy unit for a gastroscopy. “Feeling safe is the most tenacious inception. What was operating as no more than a important factor for me at this stage. Being at UMC – RH feels single, modest-sized space inconveniently situated next to the safe. I am attended to by a caring and professional medical team Emergency Room (ER), undertook considerable refurbishing and who have comprehensive knowledge of and absolute control revamping since its acquisition by LAU. over my case and the procedure they are doing.” Like a caterpillar spinning itself a cloak of silk for years, The sweeping transformation that the endoscopy unit the endoscopy unit has finally emerged from its cocoon, — currently on its way to being affiliated with Washington metamorphosing into a remarkable center of distinction and University in St. Louis — has undergone is revolutionary. It is excellence in the wake of the hospital’s management by LAU. now comprised of decidedly spacious examination rooms, in In a nutshell, endoscopy is a procedure that allows the addition to easily accessible waiting and recovery areas, giving clinician to investigate a wide range of gastrointestinal and patients ample privacy and optimum care. pulmonary symptoms using a medical device called an “Still, the unit’s current location is temporary,” notes Azar. endoscope. The importance of endoscopy lies not only in its “It allows us to set the stage for the next phase, where we ability to confirm medical diagnoses, but also in preventing the will be moving to new premises, which are currently being malignant growth of certain tumors by allowing the physician revamped and designed by the hospital in accordance with Joint to detect— and remove — them at an early stage. Indeed, Commission International (JCI) standards, thus meeting the endoscopy can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic highest standards of safety, technology and patient wellbeing.” purposes. Azar proudly stresses, however, that by far more consequential “We are committed to making the endoscopy unit a top- is the unit’s acquisition of a brand new set of cutting-edge notch, comprehensive center that diligently caters to the endoscopy equipment — the Olympus scopes — unfailingly patients’ each and every need, putting their wellbeing above all regarded as the gold standard in the field. The scopes are else,” says Dr. Riad Azar, chief of the endoscopy unit. A man of equipped with a high-end optical camera capable of providing vision, Azar aims to make the endoscopy unit at UMC – RH a a painstakingly clear and intricate view of the areas in question, leading gastroenterology referral center in the Middle East. He making the diagnostic and therapeutic processes more comes to UMC – RH with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. efficient than ever. Doubtless, in spite of its transitory stage, the He completed his fellowship in advanced therapeutic endoscopy endoscopy unit is operating at full throttle. at Harvard University Medical School, and for nine years, was “We cannot treat a disease if we cannot detect it first. Our the director of Endoscopic Ultrasound at Washington University cutting-edge technology and endoscopic equipment help School of Medicine in St. Louis, to which he is still affiliated. us to detect tumors at their earliest stages, allowing us to “I have undergone various surgeries and medical procedures take early prophylactic measures, avoiding serious and lethal due to my gastric bypass surgery — so overall, I know what to complications,” says Azar.

page 20 nocpc qimn ad sit n riig h rs o the of rest the paramedical at UMC–RHonitsproper use. staff training in assist and equipment endoscopic St.in University Washington acquirednewly Louisthe master to at workshop intensive unit,endoscopyan the recentlyattended skills.ofFrancis,monitoring Colette nurse and counseling patient head their perfecting to addition in equipment, new the of use the on training exhaustive and thorough undergone have unit endoscopy the at teams nursing program,and medical the this utilize dexterously to equipment mattersjustasmuch,” ability saysChatila. our but monitoring— care patient and to vital is equipment endoscopic state-of-the-art of acquisition unit’s “The both. of abundance an is there RH, more strategically,” explainsChatila. campaigns screening further conduct to able be locally,will we data this analyze and collect we Lebanon.“Once in individuals affected among cancer colon of rate recovery and factors, risk multi-center epidemiological study to determine the prevalence, these if what but guidelines don’tapplytotheLebanese population?” — 50 of of age the importance at screening the cancer colon emphasize guidelines “Current says. she environments,”different in differently behave States.“Diseases after several years of medical and research practice in the United who was trained at Yale of Medicine,School and joined UMC-RH to prevent cancer,”way effective an is sheexplains. early them Removing polyp. a as begin cancers colorectal most but harmless, be can “Polyps Chatila. colonoscopy,”solely gastroenterologistRH – Dr.UMC says Rajaa Te ahntn nvriy eia Cne i oe f the of one is Center Medical University Washington “The building capacity continuous RH’s – UMC of part As – UMC at — quantity beats quality goes, saying the As a heading currently is Chatila research, for passion a With Chatila,to interest special of area an is Indeed,cancer colon using — growths abnormal — polyps remove now can “We their patients with personalized care withpersonalized their patients andmaximumcomfort. provide to commitment their and teams, nursing and medical multidisciplinary the of efforts joint collegial and synergy the is to the top. In fact, one of the most striking qualities of the group and international expertise, the endoscopy unit is well on its way are care,” providing possible withthebest ourpatients sheadds. we that team the of rest the and me RH,assures – which UMC at here have we one same the is there used is that equipment best medical centers in the world,” says Francis. “The endoscopic By virtue of the team’s winning mix of seniority,of mix winning team’s the of blood,fresh virtue By page 21 page

& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 UMC–RH

“It’s all about team work. Every member of the team is what the procedure entails, and telling them what to expect indispensible,” says gastroenterologist Dr. Antoine Ferzli, who once it’s finished,” says pulmonologist Dr. Marie-Louise Coussa- has been a leading physician at the endoscopy unit at UMC – Konisky, who is in charge of bronchoscopy. RH for over twenty years. “Our patients are not just numbers, Coussa-Konisky, who completed her fellowship in pulmonary and we are driven by a common passion to make a difference and sleep diseases at McGill University in Montreal, heartily in their lives — not only medically, but throughout the recovery believes in bronchoscopy’s capacity to act both as a diagnostic and preventive phases as well.” and therapeutic tool, thus echoing her colleagues’ vision. “The Indeed, patient-centered care lies at the very core of new equipment allows us to access even the smallest of lesions, the endoscopy unit, and the team of registered nurses and and treat them more aggressively,” she says. “We can now detect paramedical staff is instrumental in liaising between the obstructions in the airways, perform biopsies of the lungs of patients and the physicians. “The endoscopic nurse engages lymph nodes, place stents, and even stop bleeding.” in each patient from the moment he or she steps into our “Our chief goal is to tend to our patients conscientiously premises up until they recover from the procedure,” says Francis. and in every possible respect, transcending the confines of Certainly, over twenty years of involvement in the endoscopy curative medicine,” stresses Azar. “Taking preemptive measures unit have made Francis an expert on patient-centered care and in gastroenterological and internal medicine can save people’s wellbeing. “Every patient has different needs on the medical, lives. This is how we can make a difference.” social, and psychological levels — the momentousness of our “The endoscopy unit’s current facilities, trailblazing role lies in treating them with compassion and humaneness equipment and the unbeatable expertise of its multidisciplinary while preserving their dignity,” she adds. medical team provide LAU’s medical and nursing students with “I feel that I am cared for by my own family here at the the ideal platform for nurturing their knowledge of the latest endoscopy unit,” says Edmond Hanna, an 84-year-old patient practices in the field, while reinforcing their hands-on skills in who came to the endoscopy unit due to post-operative endoscopy,” says Dr. Sola Bahous, associate professor of medicine complications. “The team answered all my questions thoroughly, and assistant dean for clinical affairs at LAU. which made me feel at ease. It’s rare to find skilled medical “This is the exemplary setting for both the hospital’s patients staff who have the patience to deal with older people without and LAU’s students,” she adds. “Our medical and nursing patronizing them.” students have the opportunity to learn from the top medical Moreover, user-friendliness is emphasized by providing experts in the field of endoscopy, using the latest equipment patients with educational material in different languages. “We available on the market. This is an enriching learning experience want to make sure our patients receive the best possible care — for them on each and every level.” this includes ensuring they are well accompanied through the administrative paperwork, taking the time to explain to them page 22 patients after Sassine Sassine after patients A Helping A Helping to more than50 UMC-RH tends Healing Healing Hand, a bomb blast bomb By MurielKahwagi Touch

room. two every residents,in students medical two two and nurses surgeon, one of up receive to made teams with explosion the of hand victims on were professionals learning medical and cleared was ER of news,the the minutes Within exemplary. those inneed.” helping into heart your putting about all plans youwrite–attheendofday, it’s “It doesn’t really matter how many disaster Zreik. victims,” were says the helped they and doing what dropped – everyone – the personnel,students medical team,the administrative housekeeping officers, “The nurses, the technicians, orderlies, security of moments. dire those unanimity during staff hospital the saluted Zreik G. with to tended were diligence andcompassion. – palpable and unseen both – wounds victims’ blast (UMC-RH),the Hospital Center-Rizk University Medical at staff medical the of efforts conscientious the of city. virtue the by But a roof overtheirheads. without families homes,leaving of dozens destroying and people, 80, than three more wounding Achrafieh killing nation, the the shook afternoon that through Sassine of neighborhood ripped explosion that massive The Lebanese. all day for dark a was 2012 19, October Friday, h mdcl tf’ rpd epne was response rapid staff’s medical The Dr. Tony Officer Medical Chief UMC-RH of soul the on mark its left tragedy The Photo courtesy Wael Ladki didn’t knowwhere toturnorwhere togo.” and shock of state a in were who people wounded,innocent help to together come to ability incredible an demonstrated all Jabbra.“They G.Dr. President Joseph LAU exerted,” says students and staff medical the that efforts exceptional the and family hug andreassuring words can make.” a difference the to the needle, a of to handling pertaining things professionmedical fromappropriate– the many so of importance the learned we tragedy, but a such to exposed into be to soon years hospital so our ready been have not may us of “Some Karam. Mark Karam student regarding our roles,” agreement says third-year medical and understanding unspoken an had all “We training. on-the-job be to the never seen suchdiligence from students.” have I comforting families. their and when patients empathy great showed and pressure, under proficiently Haddad, very worked “They ER. the Randa of nurse head says remarkable,” was always availableineveryroom. it were equipment and supplies medical that to in saw time and residents wounds the patients’ suturing a helped They crisis. in of commitment demonstrating patients, exceptional the in assiduous for were caring Medicine of School Chagoury Rose-Marie and Gilbert LAU’s at the teamspiritatUMC-RH.” assistant victims’the and was us familiescomforted and what LAU.“But at affairs medicine clinical for dean of professor us,” associate Bahous,Dr.of Sola says one the radiology center togetX-rays. to them taking to floor the cleaning from – way every and each in to tended were patients ensure to students medical with tandem in workedUMC-RH at nurses and physicians time, fraught that During degrees. varying of injuries with UMC-RH ready victims.” toadministertheblast’s staff medical of complement full a had we UMC-RH. were cleared – and in a matter of minutes, ER at the in rooms surgery the all seconds, “Within vascular of chief Arbid, Dr. Elias ER,” says the to mobilized were contingents key the us,all to relayed W ae ey ru o or UMC-RH our of proud very are “We out turned experience the some, For dedication students’ medical “The students medical fourth-year and Third- single every for day black a was “Friday to admitted were victims 50 than More was explosion the of news as soon “As page 23 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Op-Ed Media and the Arab Spring: Where Did the “Public” Go? By Dima Dabbous-Sensenig

Nearly two years after the fall of the None of the 111 respondents surveyed regimes of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in mentioned the universal values ascribed to Tunisia and Hosni Mubarak in Egypt, the public service broadcasting and enshrined winds of change have barely swept over the in the various international declarations media landscape in the Arab world, which and conventions that relate to media and is as authoritarian, elitist and hegemonic freedom of expression. Rather than see the as ever. Despite government reform in a role of public TV as one meant to serve number of Arab countries since December exclusively the public, in its diversity, and 2010, and the rise of new political elites to as a forum for expressing critical opinions, power, publicly-owned television and radio it was seen by some as a “normalizing,” “When and if this day comes, stations are still suffering from the same “homogenizing” tool that would bring the word “public” with “ailment”: they are neither accountable to together the people and their rulers. In the general public nor serving its interest Syria, for example, respondents believed respect to broadcasting in the way their counterparts in Western the role of Syrian TV was to be a tool for the Arab region will then democracies do, such as public service “public relations” whereby the Syrian state mean communication of broadcaster PBS in the U.S. and the BBC in could promote a positive image of itself. the U.K. Indeed, this is what state-owned media the people, by the people, Unfortunately, this comes as no surprise do in authoritarian countries: serve as a for the people.” to anyone who has been familiar with the propaganda tool for people in power. field throughout the second half of the last The objective of this study, for which century. To start with, the development data was collected only months before of national media in the Arab world is the collapse of the regime in Tunisia, relatively recent; it went hand-in-hand was to first map the existing regulatory with the rise of nationalist, anti-colonial landscape and then analyze the content movements, when media became closely of each public television station in order associated with the mission of nation to evaluate the situation in each of the building undertaken by authoritarian eight Arab countries with respect to public Arab governments. The concept of “public service broadcasting and the universal service” broadcasting was never part of ideals that characterize it. The main drive public or official discourse and did not behind such a comprehensive evaluation evolve organically as it did in North America was a realization that the democratization and Western Europe in the early 20th project sweeping the Arab world cannot be century. As such, it still has no equivalent complete unless it introduces new ways phrase in Arabic. The term “public service of communicating by turning the many broadcasting” remains untranslatable into countries of the Arab region into states Arabic and therefore conceptually alien to that have the interests of their publics most Arab populations. at heart, starting where it really matters: In my recent comparative study of public broadcasting. When and if this day public service broadcasting in eight comes, the word “public” with respect to Arab countries, interviews with activists broadcasting in the Arab region will then and members of civil society revealed mean communication of the people, by the extent to which many respondents the people, for the people. were not at all familiar with the basic components of public service broadcasting (PSB). This lack of knowledge was at times Dr. Dima Dabbous-Sensenig is assistant alarming. According to some, the mission professor of communication and director of PSB is to “convey the regime’s point of of the Institute for Women’s Studies in the view,” its position to “the people” and “the Arab World (IWSAW) at LAU Beirut. world,” and “to reinforce understanding between the people and those in power.”

page 24 community inliaisingwith LAU.” the support will inter-community chapter the relationships, enhancing that from start the aside from statement strong a the expect made have double.We least I at to number time With more. 60 some with engage to able been have and alumni been has eight of list a with activities started “We incredible. chapter initiate alumni to of enthusiasm the ’00), MA ’96, chancemay haveabetter inlife.” devote to themselves to serving others so that others alumni and our students of faculty, ability the is which LAU, of spirit very the reflect Ghana.“They in alumni of only chapter.”are afully-fledged can they I once be will they active how imagine phenomenal. was Ghana chapter the LAU establishing the and to community out reaching to dedication and passion “Their “instrumental noted. Khal roles,” Al playing and Farroukh Ghandour Ahmad Captan Lana Odaymat, Kassem alumni LAU with years’work, two of Alumni Relations AlKhal. Abdallah Director Executive said there, a chapter thus was natural step for It LAU to Africanits open first economy. of Ghanaian percent the 40 to up for Lebanese counts business estimates, some to According a to home significant number of Lebanese expatriates. is Ghana beaches, beautiful the that university responds totheirneeds.” ensure to and touch in keep to effort an make Accra.from“We return his upon Jabbra G. Dr. Joseph President LAU family,” close-knit LAU’s said of are part a still they graduated, have they although ever first alumni chapterinAfrica. university’s the inaugurated formallyfall, it this where Ghana to it took the keeps person company oftheonetheylove. a goes, fi” wo oba na proverb Ghanaian the As By DalilaMahdawi communitiesexpatriate to forge andLebanese closertieswithlocal LAU itsfirstAlumnichapterinAfrica opens A Growing Family codn t Cpa Gadu (BA Ghandour Captan to According Jabbra likewise paid tribute to the efforts of culmination the was chapter The and gold beans, cocoa its for Famed because us to matter alumni “Our that alumni its for love LAU’s was It Oi o o a wo do “Obi planned across thecontinent, saidJabbra. in Africa, further Alumni chapters are being Athens. York, working and Lebaneseliving many so With and New Geneva like London, Montreal, cities world, major the of including corners most in chapters expatriate Lebanese the community. of and chapter members Ghana businessman the hosted for Doha reception wifea Soueidan. his and Lebanese Halawi Ahmad Fida’ Accra, Prominent in Consul FinatradeFoundation, Lebanon’sas well as organization scholarship the from officials differences for gains.” positive togetherandto use in howtobringpeople lessons important us teach this “Tripslike Jabbra. alumni,” said our of children the especially Africa, from students attract to aspires University “The LAU. at studying about more learn could principals school and students that so day open an hosted Hajj Nada Beirut, Admissions, of Director universities.two the LAU between linkages Ernest Aryeetey to explore the possibility of Vice-Chancellor Ghana of University with With over 33,000 alumni,33,000 over With active LAUhas with met also delegation LAU The met delegation LAU trip,the the During Ghanaian economy.Ghanaian up to 40percent ofthe Lebanese businesscounts for According to someestimates, ofLebanesenumber expatriates ishometoGhana asignificant beaches,gold andbeautiful Famed for itscocoa beans, A Growing Family page 25 page

& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Beirut is a notoriously grey city. Scant As beautiful and heartwarming as the Beirut’s of breath and verdure, the metropolis end product may be, painting Beirut’s is hemmed in by construction sites stairs is not an easy task. “We have to get Neo- and ensnared in dichromatic black and the approval of the municipality, as well white reminiscent of Gary Ross’s film as that of the neighboring residents,” Pleasantville. says Elias. “We inform them of what we’re Batman Or, at least, this is what pre-April 8, doing, and make sure everyone is on board 2012 Beirut looked like. Have you noticed and supporting our initiative.” Painting the city something different about the city since The Facebook-mediated enterprise has then? The streets are beaming with come a long way since Dihzahyners gave one step at a time piquant color. The city’s copious staircases the once insipid stairs of Sakiet el-Janzeer are glowing with exultation – colored a buzz. They have also gingered up the By Muriel Kahwagi lozenges of mauve and turquoise and Bliss Street stairs, those across from the painted piano keys of pink and green have Lifestyles health club in Hamra, and three turned Beirut’s stairways into subjects of different stairways in Mar Mikhayel, which “We realized that we could conversation. were subsequently showcased in the White add energy and vigor to You could say that Beirut has its very Wall exhibition at the Beirut Art Center. own harlequin guardian angel, its unique As the saying goes, “life imitates art,” our city by simply painting Batman of the arts: a group of young men and Dihzahyners’ ultimate goal transcends certain locations that and women under the name Dihzahyners the confines of estheticism for that reason. who paint the capital’s numerous “Our initiatives aren’t about painting stairs needed it – and where else stairways and help turn Beirut into a for the sake of it,” says Chucri. “We want to friendlier, more colorful city. change the city’s landscape and embellish to start but with the stairs?” “It all started with the click of a ‘Like’,” the communities that people live in. Our — Jubran Elias, LAU alumnus and says LAU alumna and designer Lana visual surroundings affect our moods and co-founder of Dihzahyners. Chucri, co-founder of Dihzahyners. “It behavior. We want people to walk down began from a simple inspirational image those colorful stairs feeling happy and we saw on Facebook of artists painting refreshed.” stairs in Germany with vibrant colors.” Dihzahyners’ work goes beyond the ornate beautification of the city’s streets, and their initiatives do more than simply brighten up people’s moods; they motivate the neighboring residents to actively take part in their community. Curious and intrigued, residents often bring food and juice to the Dihzahyners, and sometimes even lend a hand in the painting process. Doubtless, Jubran and Chucri’s hopes have long ago ceased to be sheer aspirations, and passers-by are far from oblivious to the sanguine effect that Dihzahyners’ painted stairs have imparted on the city – and themselves. “I like the fact that the saturated colors stand out and don’t blend into the rest of the scenery,” says Samer Khouri, a computer engineering graduate from the Indeed, the idea drew its first breath American University of Beirut, as he walks on April 8, 2012, when over a dozen by the Mar Mikhayel stairs. “Maybe it’s a designers, most of whom are LAU alumni, metaphor that represents those who think congregated at the stairs of Sakiet El- differently in this country: the outliers and Janzeer and got down to painting. game changers.” “We realized that we could add energy and vigor to our city by simply painting certain locations that needed it – and where else to start but with the stairs? They are plentiful in Beirut!” says LAU alumnus and Dihzahyners co-founder Jubran Elias. page 26 Truly Indefatigable person, ahard worker whowantstogothetop all thetime.” and aperson students. Byblos campus, where he as boasts many varsity teams—13—as rival schools with 10,000 Management from theUniversityofBalamand. two seasons. University Basketball championship for three years in Men’s a row in starting 2009,the and proudly the took title of the past finals the to Captains LAU the led he’s East, Middle of basketballtocome toLAU.” what I did; I improved and laid the groundwork for a new field of players and a higher level in store for him. Enrolling atLAU, hefound thelevelofplaynotuptohisexpectations. else something had fate States,but United the in hoops college playing of dreaming up basketball coach for the Lebanese National Under 17 and Under 15 teams. Moujaes grew what Idid.” athletics,’ that’s pursue and to going I’m now,and engineer an degree,I’m my ‘That’s sports,” Moujaes, saysJoe director ofathleticsatLAU Byblos. about passionate was I academics,whereas into study,go to to me wanted parents “My By Paige Kollock From engineertobasketball champion Captain Joe by LAU. indefatigable.” truly is Dr.“He Mohsen.Students Raed of Dean remarkable,” Beirut’s are LAU enthuses a principle thatI’vetaken myselftoworktoward.” upon is It sports… in opportunities equal have to women and men requires which law a is the nextpresident ofthebody. Lebanese become the to candidate leading on a considered widely serves is and also Sports University of Federation He region. the from affiliate only the Federation, Sports University International the of member a is LAU,he Council.Outside Life Campus the of chair and FacultySenate the of athletics, member of director as duties administrative and Athletics the over Itcouldn’tPhysical havecome time.” Department… atabetter take to someone for looking was “LAU when 1993, in Lebanon coaching from the University of Miami. He settled in the U.S.and college after administrationbut was visiting athletic in M.S. an holds Garabedian Beirut, of University American education.”a good get to is objective remindfirst the reasonthe that them arethey here sports; do to not is never forgets LAU’s priorities. “When students who are interested in ask sports for advice, I sports,Garabedianof value the in believer firm a between athletics. being and academicsDespite facilitator a as acts he university,where the at It role Beirut.his for LAU metaphor apt at an is athletics of director Garabedian, Sami clap,” says cannot hand “One By JohnMacDonald Athletic director strivesfor equalityinsports, life With Moujaesas amentor, hard. thatshouldn’tbe tough a of indication ‘captains’… an ourselves called We life… family the live “We Sports in master’s a got even Moujaes he has worked to seriously modernize the sports facilities so and programs at work the 3,000-student his takes two of father The in distinction that hold to two administrator,only sports of youth one U.S.-certified A “I had two choices: quit playing collegiate level, or improve as much as I can. And this is These days, the only thing Moujaes engineers are champions, whether at LAU or as the engineering,civil did degree,“I my got him,I told fatherwhen and my and to it gave I In 2003, Garabedian was presented with the “Above and Beyond the Call of Duty” award institution the to commitment his and students, his to work, his to dedication “His there States, the “In mind. open an with responsibilities his approaches Garabedian basketball,tennis),of (fourof week has two he per coaching of hours six to addition In the of graduate A experience. of years 18 after comes disposition pragmatic This page 27 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Weathering the Storm

Weathering the Storm Rain or shine, LAU makes it to the finish line By Mehrnoush Shafiei

Despite the gloomy weather, LAU made Outreach and Civic Engagement (OCE) community cohesiveness. an impressive showing at the annual unit. “Participating in this demonstrates “This is not just about athletics but Beirut International Marathon that took loyalty and commitment to promoting about social change and philanthropy,” said place on November 11. Students, staff and the civic engagement spirit of LAU,” he the president and creator of the marathon, faculty braved heavy rain, thunder and continued. May Khalil. strong winds to participate and cheer on “Despite the challenging weather many The annual event is in its tenth year and their fellow runners during the race. members of the LAU community came out is rapidly growing both in ambition and Urban athleticism at its best, Beirut’s to participate,” said Joseph Kanaan, project scale – with runners from 96 countries busy streets, usually teeming with traffic, manager and coordinator for OCE. travelling to Beirut to partake in the race. were blocked off for the duration of “The rain doesn’t matter; what is A strong sense of community and civic the race and were instead lined with important is that we showed up as a responsibility is what the Beirut Marathon performers, musicians and street vendors community,” said LAU Byblos student intends to cultivate among its participants eager to sell umbrellas to the wet but Farah Khater, who has run in the marathon and spectators – capturing both the cheerful spectators. The musicians’ well- for three consecutive years. “It shows what vitality and resilience of the city. developed sense of irony was on full we are made of. Rain will not stop the This year’s marathon raised nearly display as they entertained crowds with Lebanese,” Khater boasted. a quarter of a million dollars for the tunes such as Bill Withers’ classic “Ain’t No Indeed, the marathon has an impressive families affected by the October 19 Sunshine.” record of going on as planned in spite Achrafieh bombing, and thousands more For the eighth consecutive year, of challenging circumstances. Most for individual charities, organizers said. the university set up a stand on the noteworthy is the 2006 marathon when, Using Facebook and text messaging, race seaside promenade, where LAU students in the wake of a series of socio-political coordinators reached out to registered entertained with talent shows that helped challenges in the country, including participants, asking them to donate, while give an adrenaline charge to racers, while the assassination of the former prime some runners took it upon themselves to volunteers dutifully stood along the route minister in 2005 and a war with Israel raise money for their charity of choice. handing out refreshments to the runners. over the summer, 22,000 people showed As the race wound down, the sun came “This is by far one of the most exciting up to participate. The film “For the Love out – a fitting end for a city famous for, and thrilling events LAU participates in,” of Lebanon” was made about the 2006 time and time again, being able to weather said Elie Samia, executive director of LAU’s race focusing on the themes of unity and the storm.

page 28 n tetr efracs am to in aims audiences and – scholars artists, engage performances theater music dance, and includes which – festival one-week of The audience. American a North to understanding culture and an identity Mediterranean promotes Seas for andembrace theirownidentity. search to order transgender in face Lebanon in people that struggles physical and emotional the with grips LAU,to at comes communication oral of fundamentals and (theater) assistant arts communication Abyad,of professor Lina Dr. 25, August on YorkNew in festival Seas the Between atat t s oe hlegn fr oe hn for others. than some for challenging more is it task,easy an not is it asserting and identity one’s with terms human to coming While beings. of individuality and uniqueness the to contributes that amalgam cultural compartmentalize and social genetic, to very identity,the one’s immoral almost proportions.” all unique its of shaped have that made elements the one, have only I identities, Amin author Maalouf wisely put it, “I do not have several French Lebanese-born As By MurielKahwagi Confronting sexualidentitythrough theatre Transcending Transgenderism one i 21, ewe the Between 2010, in Founded n e lts play latest her In and impossible virtually is it Indeed, wih premiered which I.D., spotlight for the first time. forspotlight thefirst that adding Khouri, here,”invisible says and marginalized very are people Transgender denial. or shame, erasure,or of kind a is mainstream.There the in discussed get never that in Lebanon happening developments and stories someofhersubjects. herself impersonates she which in performance solo theatrical a transgender in culminates It Lebanon. with in individuals interviews Khouri by various conducted of reinterpretation poignant a of result the is 2012, February in conceptualizing started duo the which enterprise Lebanon.in of script, The people transgender realities harsh the aesthetic on light sheds that and informative Abyad, by directed and easily very could outweigh physical pain.” although distress hardship, of emotional kind different a engenders also surgery reassignment “Undergoing sex Abyad. says them,” rejects otherwise, or society,deliberately that fact sheer the with starting suffering, of deal and culture identity. region’s the of discussion a “There are many important transgender important many are “There Khouri Amahl alumna LAU by Written great a endure people “Transgender us hm n the in them puts I.D. s oh an both is I.D. and togetknow‘theother’,” crash shesays. ideas, to preconceived is question theatre boundaries, of function the but audienceslocal in thenearfuture. s ey xie t stage to excited very is generally remainsin Lebanon,taboo Abyad transgenderism they While further. as it – develop Butler gender Judith expert and studies author of feminist that particularly American and – interviews work more theoretical include to plans Abyad. are,”they who to says true stay to through sexuality.go to have people what about It’s who want to be themselves. people just are people transgender would agree, transcends one’ssexuality. bringing humanization,” sheexplains. precisely is what this and thing, political and “This may not be an easy topic to tackle,to topic easy an be not may “This s wr i pors, n te duo the and progress, in work a is I.D. and construct, dynamic a is “Gender Maalouf as identity, one’s However, potent very a is visibility that think “I brings.means visibility I.D. Bringing Transgenderism Transcending I.D. is not just about n ert for Beirut in I.D. page 29 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Prescribing Succor

A group of LAU students is engrossed of the School of Medicine’s social Prescribing in a debate about the merits of various medicine and global health program. diabetes medications. The students are Part of the curriculum for all three Succor weighing financial considerations against schools, the program aims to create patients’ access to refrigerators, nutrition compassionate and community-oriented volunteer habits and whether they have the social health professionals by exposing them support to assist them in taking the drug to situations where economic and clinic receives properly. environmental inequalities adversely The budding doctors, nurses and impact health. “Much of what students substantial US pharmacists sit in a corner of the see at VOC is related to structures of Volunteer Outreach Clinic (VOC) in the social injustice,” says Haidar. “Bringing donation Shatila refugee camp, seemingly unfazed students here leads to greater awareness By Dalila Mahdawi by the lack of electricity. Then it starts and over time hopefully contributes to to rain and thunder, and as the last social and political change.” remaining rays of sunshine disappear, the VOC is nestled deep within the camp, clinic is plunged into near total darkness. and one must follow a labyrinth of alleys, Shatila is home to around 12,000 over which hang meters of precariously Palestinian refugees. Residents live in hung electricity cables, to find it. On appalling poverty, with entire families rainy days like today, the camp’s tiny inhabiting tiny rooms lacking proper toilet passageways are transformed into open facilities or adequate ventilation. Privacy sewers oozing sludge. Outside the clinic, a is nonexistent, clean water a luxury and sea of discarded bottles, cans, plastic bags medical care an extravagance that most and rusting poles rocks gently under the cannot afford. steady pitter-patter of falling raindrops. “Lack of access to medication and good Once inside, however, visitors are doctors is a key issue here,” says Tarek al- received warmly. Health checks are free, Halabi, a medical student and volunteer. as is medication, and all patients are “I’ve seen a lot of people with diabetes or guaranteed a consultation before closing other treatable diseases who can’t afford time. But the clinic requires much more the doctor fees or medicine. They are support. It lacks sophisticated medical paying the price for being poor.” equipment, relies on donated medicine Established in 2001 by a group of and urgently needs volunteers. volunteers, with support from the A recent in-kind donation from the American University of Beirut, VOC is U.S. worth more than $175,000 in retail an independent, not-for-profit clinic that value will go some way to relieving offers primary care services to camp those needs. The gift – a result of residents. LAU Medical, Nursing and the cooperative efforts of Palestinian- Photo by Mehrnoush Shafiei Pharm.D. students come to VOC every American businessman Anan Anabtawi, week under the supervision of Dr. Mona Eos Health, the charity Medical Bridges Haidar, an instructor and coordinator and LAU’s Development Office – includes medical supplies and equipment, as well as technology that assists patients in tracking their treatment. “Shatila was on my radar because my son Rami had volunteered there and described the living conditions in detail,” says Anabtawi. “Having visited the clinic myself and met with the staff, I immediately knew this was a worthwhile effort. Anything we can do to ease people’s misery at the camps is more than important.” The contrast between Shatila’s blighted streets and LAU’s green campuses is stark, but many students are glad for the chance to volunteer. “I’d never been to the camps before or even passed by the area,” says Pharm.D. student Rita Habib. “You appreciate what you have when you see what it is like here.” Photo by Mehrnoush Shafiei page 30 ind rcr egtya $0 million $30 eight-year record a signed Alabama of University the 2010, In striking well. as teams college are with deals sponsorship Corporations and Sports. ESPN networks: Fox TV major two to on games rights basketball the and football for broadcast years 13 $2.6 over worth billion deal 10 a on shook South, of and conference athletic Midwest the in mostly located universities college Conference,a 12 Big tournaments. the September, and Last games broadcast to networks television with multi-billion contracts dollar negotiated has NCAA The 2011. in million basketball 80 nearly reached games and football college-level for attendance total the U.S., the in athletics college and university regulates that body (NCAA), Association Athletic governingthe inter-school from gone competition tolucrative industry. have sports university decade,as last the over steadily grown has athletics college U.S. to given in the lives of Americans. The significance basketball—play and football particularly athletics— collegiate role a big how just of indicative is and game a regular-season watch to ever crowd largest the was It than to watch a college American football moregame. 2011, Stadium Michigan into piled fans 114,800 10, September On By Greg Houle The businessofU.S. college athletics Million DollarStudents codn t te ainl Collegiate National the to According subsequent cover-up. the and scandal the within to lead immunity program football Witnesses of culture scandal. a said abuse sexual a subject of the was it 2011, in but U.S., the in successful most and largest was the of one program football University’s State Penn controversy. generate to continue on campuses throughout thenation. launch a renaissance for women’s athletics helped that programs,legislation athletics their to came it when sex of discriminate basis the on not could universities and colleges that mandating Amendments passed was Education Acts the of IX some Title brought also 1970s,early the developments.In positive has attention the sports, college on spent being money of average school. of$788,000per an in brought programs basketball while institution, per million $3.15 was 2010 football in college for revenue net median who earns more than$5millionayear. Brown, Mack coach football Texas’ of University is which of paid highest teams,the their run to salaries seven-figure earn coaches Top-level apparel. athletic contract with Nike to supply its teams with And cases of bribery in college sports sports college in bribery of cases And athletics college and university Yet amounts vast the bemoan some While the report, NCAA 2011 a to According

could play professionally, are too often often given false hope. too are professionally, they play that could premise the on recruited are that skills academic weaker with talented athletes And sidelined. or benched get often andgame the of love the for study sports play to college attend who Those athletics.college of commercialization from the most suffer often who themselves to theexploitationofstudents. led has … university the of rest the from the detachment of intercollegiate athletics that evidence ample is “There University. American the and Athletics Intercollegiate the of author the and Michigan at of University emeritus president J.Duderstadt, James values universities,” says host from and their of away principles far educational the drifted have athletics intercollegiate of that values fact and culture the the from derive today sports to intentionallyfumbletheball. gambler a from $2,000 than more taking to guilty pleaded player Toledo football of University former One games.college on League (NFL) agents, are or by bookies who bet - Football National by football whether widespread, American particularly – notntl, t s h athletes the is it Unfortunately, about concerns and issues “Most Million DollarStudents page 31 page

& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Rehab,

FEATURE the Good Kind The rise and shine of sports medicine By Muriel Kahwagi

page 32 his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) (ACL) injury in2010. ligament cruciate anterior his times,”few a on says,back he thinking way gave and buckled knee Cairo,“my in University American the at history Haselby, I assistant professor when of American and pain, of walk,”to tried Dr.recalls lot wincingly Sam a in was “I such in the late 20 as rising only – healthcare in entity unique a as novelty relative activity.itsphysical of – spite of In lack the against caution and exercise-related and – of promotion sports the as well injuries,injuries,as musculoskeletal of prevention and treatment both the with deals chiefly that medicine of branch a is medicine fact,sports In medicine. of fields discrete and distinct are both related injuries. sports- of treatment post-operative and diagnosis,management forthe indispensable areperpetually physicians medicine sports latter,the of treatment surgical the of helm the at are surgeons orthopedic tears.While ACL like injuries common counting not very the core of are the diagnosis of even the they thorniest sports-related injuries, – post-injury imperative are these like tests the knee, the feel to swelling andthemotionwithhishandsalot.” wanted “He jest. in Haselby comments nothingmorebe thanasprain wasinfact anACLtear. Athletic University to thought Harvardoriginally was what that Department, confirmed who the at physician medicine sports and surgeon Dr.Steiner,orthopedic to Mark the referred finally referrals,later,MRI,intermediary days one two three and was he sprain.mere a as But misdiagnosed initially was gym.injury The school the at basketball congenialof a game during toreACL his Haselby time, the at University Harvard at fellow postdoctoral A y pr; hy r as casfe acrig o h ntr and nature the to intensity ofthe physical activitythatcaused them. according classified also are they sport; by back and ankle injuries. But sports injuries are not only bracketed groin pain in athletes – while basketball players are more prone to and athletic pubalgia – a medical condition engendering chronic of injury.” kind team specific a Federations.characterizedby Field is sport “Each official Track and and Ski, Basketball, Football, and Lebanese the of surgeon, doctor orthopedic sports Khoury, physician, Alfred Dr. medicine rationale,” says own’ his each ‘to a physically active, individualsaswell. non-athletic, albeit among popularity gaining is and athletes for h lns ht eaae h seilis fe oelp but overlap, often specialties the separate that lines The Haselby, to was examination preliminary the as vexing As talky,” so not handsy, very was he surgeons, of lot a “Like “When it comes to sports injuries, it’s more often than not than often more it’s injuries, sports to comes it “When Fo otball players, for instance, suffer mostly from ACL sprains ACL from mostly instance,players,forsuffer otball

th century – medicine sports is a dire necessity page 33 page >

& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 FEATURE

Rehab, the Good Kind

doesn’t really matter. It’s not consequential. They have a job – financial security. This is not the case for professional athletes. The sport is their job, and their financial security depends solely on it.” The amount of stress – both physical and emotional – that professional athletes endure post-injury is tremendous. It stems from their coach, their team members, their fans – everyone wants to know when they will be able to play again. Mahmoud El Ali is a Lebanese football player for Al-Ahed in the Lebanese Premier League. He is also a striker in the scorer position for the Lebanese national football team. When he tore his ACL during a game last April, no one thought he would be able to get back on the field a mere five months later, “a record time,” notes Khoury, who operated on El Ali at University Medical Center-Rizk Hospital. Unlike Haselby, the footballer’s surgery took place only a few days after his ACL injury. The treatment and physiotherapy were aggressive, and he was sent to ASPETAR, the first specialized orthopedic and sports medicine hospital in the Gulf region, to complete his rehabilitation so that he could play alongside his team members as rapidly and safely as possible. By virtue of Khoury’s meticulously performed surgery, El Ali’s exceptional commitment to physiotherapy, and ASPETAR’s highly developed facilities, the striker’s recovery was complete just in time for him to play the last 30 minutes of the Lebanon vs. Iran World Cup 2014 qualifier match, which took place on September 11, 2012. A FIFA-accredited medical center of excellence, ASPETAR has rightfully earned its reputation as a first-rate facility for physiotherapy, orthopedic surgery and post-injury rehabilitation, having accommodated football players of the caliber of David Khoury thus distinguishes between two kinds of sports Beckham and Kakà over the years. But like all sports medicine injuries: those caused by the continuous and repetitive use and centers, ASPETAR does not just tend to athletes’ injuries; it also exhaustion of the area in question over the course of time, dubbed conducts regular and consistent pre-participation screening of “overuse injuries,” such as tendonitis; and “acute injuries” like cardiovascular abnormalities in competitive athletes to prevent ankle sprains, ACL tears and shoulder injuries, which result from sudden cardiac arrest. sudden and traumatic thwacks on the body. Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, although athletes Haselby’s right knee was not operated on until three weeks after with pre-existing or undiagnosed heart conditions are more the incident. In addition, typical post-operative rehabilitation for prone to it. According to LAU alumna and former senior clinical ACL tears usually consists of five to six months of physiotherapy pharmacist at ASPETAR Dr. Riwa Kfoury Dermosessian, sudden and stationary physical exercises that begin only a few days after cardiac arrest is one of the most important threats to look out for the surgery. in sports medicine, especially in young athletes. “Around one in “For a few weeks after the surgery, I had to use crutches,” says Haselby. “It was often frustrating. Instead of taking 30 minutes to get to the grocery store, for example, it would sometimes take two hours or more.” But what is nothing more than a mere frustration and inconvenience for most people is a real deal-breaker for athletes, whose careers are on the line and at the mercy of the treating physician. “The first thing athletes ask me after they are injured on the field is, ‘When can the surgery be performed?’” says Khoury. “The first thing their coaches ask me is, ‘When can they get back on the field?’” Time is a luxury that professional athletes cannot afford, and indulging in it is not of little consequence. “Recreational athletes take much longer that professional athletes to recover from a sports injury,” says Khoury. “They’re not as good as professional athletes at following orders and abiding by the physiotherapy regimen. If they can’t practice sports in five or six months, it Dr. Alfred Khoury with Lebanese football midfielder Nader Matar post-op page 34 thick. Fehér was only 24yearsold. cardiomyopathy, a condition muscles become in which the heart hypertrophic by on brought night.arrhythmia, cardiac that was cause later The confirmed was death His panic. in on looked crowd stadium the and coach,teammates his as hospital the to he scoring, after Shortly goal.abruptly lost consciousness and fell only to the ground. its He was rushed score team his help to Benfica’s Hungarian striker, Miklós Fehér, came on as this a substitute S.L.when of television on reminderlive broadcast being painful was game fact.The a was – S.C Vitória clubs and Portuguese Benfica between S.L. game football a of day the – 2004 consequential. its25, less January any it make not of does occurrence unlikelihood preventability. The its in lies arrest cardiac subsequent and treatment taken place,” screening proper saysKfoury Dermosessian. the had avoided been have couldcomplicationsthat – fibrillation tachycardiaor ventricular 200,000 athletes die suddenly during exercise due to abrupt-onset — Dr. AlfredKhoury, sportsmedicine-orthopedicsurgeon, “ The firstthing athletesaskmeaftertheyare is, ‘Whencantheygetbackonthefield?’” performed?’ Thefirstthingtheircoachesaskme injured onthefieldis,‘Whencansurgerybe ned te el rgd o a ahees et fo sudden from death athlete’s an of tragedy real the Indeed, UMC-RH muscular exhaustion associated withit.”muscular exhaustionassociated He players. the to and effort next of level the and sport the familiarwith very be should right field, the on belongs physician behind their desks in their clinic,” says Khoury. “A sports medicine minimal with play can health risks. they that ensure to abnormalities for medicine. sports in scannedAthletes’ frequently are feet lungs,even attention eyes,and chest of center the longer no is heart process,screening the of the aspects important most the of one pre-participation result that consequences remains of it.abnormalities from neglecting forheart testing While grave the importance and athletes the in screening to attention deserved Ti i wy prs eiie hscas hud’ js sit just shouldn’t physicians medicine sports why is “This much- brought and sports, of world the shocked death His page 35 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Campus Notes

Campus For more details about these LAU activities, Edited by Linda Dahdah NoTesvisit the news section of www.lau.edu.lb. Serving the community

Keep the law! Civil society groups and officials came together on October 17 against calls to amend the law passed last month that bans smoking in public spaces in Lebanon. LAU President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra, who participated in the event, stressed LAU’s full support of the implementation of Law 174 in its entirety. “We live in a community on the basis of social contract and where one’s freedom ends is where someone else’s freedom begins. It is people’s right to live healthy, breathe healthy, without being harmed by the smoke of others,” said Jabbra, reminding attendees that both Beirut and Byblos campuses have been smoke-free for over a year.

LAU architecture builds bridge to public sector Two LAU architecture classes presented end-of-year projects proposing innovative urban and architectural plans for the neighborhoods of Maameltein and historic Byblos. The student proposals led to exhibitions hosted by the municipalities of both cities. LAU President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra attended the events saying that LAU has always tried to work with the community to find urban-restoration solutions for many areas in Lebanon. Both municipalities voiced support for the university and the students and hope to collaborate on more projects in the future.

Institutional Advancement

Measuring success LAU’s office of Institutional Research and Assessment (IRA) conducted a half-day workshop on July 19 to introduce 36 of the university’s staff and administrators to the concept of assessment. The workshop familiarized attendees with the major functions of the office and presented an in-depth discussion of the assessment process. The primary goals were to introduce attendees to IRA and to the world of evidence- based decision-making and assessment. It also aimed to inspire participants to re-define their goals and establish guidelines for measuring success.

Introducing DELI LAU’s School of Arts and Sciences launched a preparatory English language-teaching unit under the umbrella of the newly created Department of English Language Instruction (DELI). The unit was the result of recommendations from a yearlong study by two task forces. Administrators believe that bringing together all pre-college English courses under one department will facilitate coordination among courses, help streamline course content and establish a clear parallel between English for academic and English for non-academic purposes.

page 36 and mediastudies. included topics literature,and gender methodologies,research Other gender and and world. epistemologies feminist Arab the in and as South such global the West, issues the present-day in feminism critical addressed which workshop, 17-26 September the Researchers.” Gender for and Academics TrainingIraqi for“Gender Center entitled workshop a hosted the together London of and University the at Cairo (SOAS) Studies African in and Oriental of School (WMF) the at (CGS) Forum Studies Memory and Women partnership in LAU, the at (IWSAW) with World Arab the in Studies Women’s for Institute The thescholars Schooling present-day society’s destroying that but civilizations” of between architecture for ofarcheological thesolepurpose discovery isunrealistic. “reservoir tensions to a that – is attendees reminding today Beirut Boustani lecture, until his – In developers. leading and capital preservationists Lebanese the over taken the Lebanese University. at archeology Beirut’s of on professor – a talks Al-Boustani, Dr. Harethmonthly by of delivered series sites, archeologicala in first the – lecture got a LAU with at ground the (CLH) off Heritage Lebanese for Center off, the kicks year academic the As memory intoBeirut’s A sneakpeek of LAU’s Institutefor WomenStudiesintheArab World, courses. willteachboth like economics, sociology, psychology topics and media.encompass that Dr. a feminism and offers rights Dima Dabbous-Sensenig,women’s already directorto LAUrelating undergraduates. courses for of number electives are - Media the and Arts the in Arab the Women of Representations in and Studies studies Gender to Introduction gender - courses world.The promote to semester this courses two introduced has Given LAU’s history of being an institution for the education for women, the university Teaching thelanguageofgender Institutes Approximately 20 Iraqi academics and researchers from different fields attended attended fields different from researchers and academics Iraqi 20 Approximately have projects construction frenetic (1975-1990), War Civil the of end the Since training inaccordance withthehighestinternationalstandards andguidelines. professional foropportunities Pharm. D. graduates as it guarantees students receive BLS cardiology. First According to and SOP Dean Dr. instruction the Pierre Zalloua, BLS such certification will foster offer of greater will part certification (SOP) by the American Heart Association (AHA), Pharmacy the world’s been leading association of in School previously year, the this has elective, Aid training BLS While curriculum. (Pharm.D.) is the latest addition to (BLS) LAU’scertification of Pharmacy Basic Life Doctor Support Saving lives, servingthecommunity the political, economic, availabletowomen. opportunities andsocial shaping in gender of role It the discuss (PwC).to leaders female PricewaterhouseCoopers young for platform and a provided (IWSAW) World Arab the in Studies Women’s the Arab world. conference one-day Future”.in gap gender the bridging and Arabwomen the empowering of importance addressedthe It a of Voice The Leaders: organized Women Arab “Young (AIWF) entitled 20 Forum September on Women’s International Arab The ArabEmpowering women The event was held at LAU Beirut in partnership with the university’s Institute for Institute university’s the with partnership in Beirut LAU at held was event The page 37 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Campus Notes

Arts and literature

Lessons from history On September 28, the Department of Social Sciences at LAU Byblos held a dynamic and thought-provoking interdisciplinary seminar entitled “Religious Conflict and Religious Coexistence in Early Modern Germany: any Lessons for Contemporary Lebanon?” Dr. Christian Kuehner, a research associate from the University of Cambridge, served as the keynote guest speaker. He offered a stimulating overview of the complex dynamics that governed the German multi-sectarian experience—namely the struggle between Catholics and Protestants of the early modern period, between the years 1500-1650 AD.

Business and youth

INJAZ A sense of competition permeated the air when dozens of young entrepreneurs gathered at LAU Beirut on September 1 for the annual “Student Company of the Year” competition. The event brought together schools from all over Lebanon to compete for the best student-led enterprise. Dignitaries, faculty, family and friends witnessed eight teams from various Lebanese high schools pitch their business ideas to a panel of jurors in the presence of Central Bank Governor Riad Salameh. Visio, a company that devised a nationwide recycling plan, was announced the winner. All eight teams were invited to come back to LAU for a two-day business workshop.

Civic Engagement

The art of diplomacy LAU’s Outreach and Civic Engagement unit (OCE) paved the way for two student delegations to visit the United Nations headquarters in New York to gain experience in the art of negotiation and civic engagement. Between August 17 and August 24, an LAU student delegation travelled to New York to take part in the International Diplomacy workshop hosted by the World Youth Alliance. Earlier in the summer, LAU also chaperoned six talented high school students who participated in the International Model United Nations Conference.

Career guidance

Introducing Citigroup and Google In October, representatives from corporate giants Citi EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) and Google separately visited campus to introduce their respective companies to LAU students. Their visits gave students an opportunity to understand the history, ethos and working culture of the companies, as each showcased the wide range of opportunities they offer in Lebanon and abroad. Students from LAU and other universities who interned at Citi and Google shared their experiences. Citi’s visit concluded with a presentation of the graduate program application process and a Q&A session. Google representatives conducted a workshop on “how to make your CV stand out”.

page 38 eiig n uiest. ah ap fee to coasis o o suet who students top to have committed toenrolling inthatmajoratLAU. scholarships when two choice offered camp first university. Each a a as on LAU deciding consider to students them introduced encouraged camps and majors academic potential The media.to on focused out third, rounded a were by camps year summer this chemistry and and Arts science of computer School the the by Sciences, Hosted 2–16. July from campus Beirut the on students students school high eleventh-grade 70 about together brought camps summer LAU Pre-freshman summerschool Science andtechnology senior webeditor for MarCom. attitude,” laid-back Dahdah, ready and Linda remarks modest a the such has who encyclopedia miss will co-workers his literary meantime,walking a with paths cross you that day the every guidance.not his is to access“It In basis. freelance a on States communications. helped constituents, LAU community,” with the engage relationsand marketingfor president Hanna,vice Peggy assistant says friendly and professional his with coupled Berkeley, Harvard, at experience teaching of years Stonehill College andHaigazianUniversity. his of advantage the students Jabbra. university,”G.our of Joseph of Presidentlife LAU culture the says with region and the and Lebanon society the connecting issues, social broader explore Magazine LAU LAU. career,throughouthis to and team his to language English the of mastery broughthis for fellowships passion nine least knowledge,at of awardedBrown, vault writing. unbridled been A has who his with by them inspiring whether by colleagues,or research his to how on them teaching bestowed humbly he which knowledge, higher and the to return and to Marketing position United Statesandcomplete LAU’s hisPh.D. his inEnglishatHarvard dissertation University. of left publications has Brown the Curtis for Department, editor Communications managing as years two After By JohnMacDonald MarCom bidsfarewell Brown toCurtis A WalkingLiterary Encyclopedia Although he has left his position, he will continue with MarCom from the United the from MarCom with continue will he position, his left has he Although skills, editorial outstanding His office. this to blessing real a been has “Curtis LAU,at giving courseliterature a MarCom,taught Brownat work his to addition In helped have efforts insight.greatHis of man a and writer brilliant a both is “Curtis writing for passion exceptional an him gave U.S. the in academia in years His engineer Dr. Georges Hariktopromote computer science inLebanon. Google and philanthropist of contributionsgenerous and vision was the by possible it made that acknowledging by School event weeklong the the inaugurated Sciences, of and Arts dean Frossard,of Philippe Dr. Mathematics. and Science Department Computer the 35 of July by organized this Institute, applications, Summer skills Science Computer computer mobile Byblos’ LAU their at developing enhanced students to school high languages technology-hungry programming learning From Producers oftechnology page 39 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 New Faculty

JOY BALTA Joy Balta returns to LAU as an assistant professor of anatomy in the School of Medicine after completing a Master of Science in Human Anatomy at the University of Dundee in Dundee, Scotland. Balta helped establish the anatomy and microbiology laboratories at the Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine and says the feeling of belonging and the desire to see LAU grow drove him back. Alongside his academic career, he is the founding president of a non-governmental organization called “As You Are” that works with underprivileged kids and youth.

DR. MUSTAFA DAH Dr. Mustafa Dah was recently appointed assistant professor of finance at LAU. He received his Ph.D. in finance from the University of Central Florida (UCF) for his dissertation “Essays on the Effect of Excess Compensation and Governance Changes on Firm Value.” He also holds an M.B.A. and a B.S. in finance from LAU. Dah’s primary research interest is in the area of corporate governance. Specifically, his current research focuses on the following topics: CEO and director compensation, board independence, managerial turnover, CEO and director entrenchment, and agency cost. Dah has also participated in top finance conferences as a presenter and program committee member. He considers the balance between superb teaching and a rigorous research agenda to be his greatest strength.

DR. RITA DOUMIT Dr. Rita Doumit is now a full-time faculty member in the School of Nursing, where she previously worked part-time, co-teaching fundamentals and professional nursing concepts to first-year students. Prior to that, she worked as a project coordinator at LAU, liaising between the School of Medicine and the School of Nursing to promote collaboration. She started at LAU as the College Nurse and Public Health Coordinator. She holds a B.S. in Nursing from St. Joseph University and Illes de France, a Master of Public Health from AUB in hospital administration and a Ph.D. in nursing from Loyola University Chicago, Illinois. She says her long-term goal is to establish a counseling program at LAU to help students adopt healthy behaviors.

DR. JOMANA ELARIDI Dr. Jomana Elaridi received her B.S. in Chemistry at the American University of Beirut and completed her Honors degree in organic chemistry at Monash University in Australia, graduating with high distinction. Her Ph.D. research investigated the application of homogeneous catalysis for the synthesis of peptide mimics. This research led to the publication of a number of manuscripts in leading peer-reviewed journals, the filing of three patents, presentations at international conferences and lucrative collaborations with international companies. She hopes to capitalize on LAU’s facilities, and those of neighboring institutions, to conduct research related to the synthesis of potential anti-cancer drugs.

MAHER EL JAMAL Maher El Jamal recently joined the ranks of LAU’s faculty as a full-time instructor, after spending six years as a part timer. Maher received his B.A. from George Washington University and his M.B.A. and postgraduate certification in Information Systems Analysis and Design from the American University in Washington D.C. Jamal comes to LAU from the private sector with more than twenty years of international managerial and consulting experience in the fields of IT, project management, international business and finance. He is also certified by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) as a professionally qualified instructor.

ANNA FAHR Anna Fahr recently joined LAU as a visiting instructor in Film at LAU’s Department of Communication Arts. Her research and creative interests include cultural identity, women in film, and transnational art and media practices. In addition to teaching, Fahr is an independent Producer/Director/Editor who has collaborated with New York-based film companies on a number of projects, including the five-part documentary web series, RHV: Reproductive Health Vouchers, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and produced by Gobee Group. Her work has screened internationally and she has been the recipient of a number of grants and fellowships.

page 40 and aprofessional consultant. academic her to addition firms multinational of In number a fortrainer regional Massachusetts. and national a background,also in is she College Babson from 1980 in M.B.A her of Management full-time Studies of in in Business.the Department School She received Amal Rouhana joinedLAU’s ofBusinessin1994asapart-timeinstructorandisnow School AMAL ROUHANA selection committees. grant of member was conferencesand international and national informatics,at presented health and management care health of areas the in journals peer-reviewed top in articles published has She diseases.chronic for patients) monitoring remotely of practice medical (a telemonitoring and management, care health evidence-based hospitals, in strategic projects, planning IT IT clinical in risks settings, care health in IT of implementation the on information technology, and management information systems. quality,Her care health current management,health careresearch health the focuses in at levels undergraduate experience and graduate teaching has She Care. Health in (IT) Technology Information in Chair Iowa andcompleted fellowship apost-doctoral atHECMontreal undertheCanada Research of University the fromPolicy and Management Dr.Health Ph.D.in her earned Jaana Mirou DR. MIROU JAANA Processing Thermal Food of and governmentalconsultancy projects inCanada. Institute industrial several conducted the the Hassan LAU, and joining by respectively. Before (IFTPS), Award Specialists (IFT) Technologists Competition Food Paper of Stumbo the Institute and Award Stewart George Competition the of recipientInternational the Agricultural is and He Canada. Science in Food University McGill in from Ph.D. Chemistry a holds also He Beirut. of University American the Technologyfrom Food in Science of Master a and Dietetics and of Nutrition in Bachelor Science a holds He Sciences. Natural of Department the in Technology and Science Food professorof a as Sciences and Arts of School Dr.the joined recently Hassan Hussein DR. HUSSEINHASSAN funded project ofmanufacturing assessingtheimpact activitiesontheenvironment. USAID a on students LAUdecade. of past team classroom,the a the Outside supervises transportation he and aviation in Lebanon in companies the technology two started in has States,and United the experience in industries consulting and engineering of over years has Tech. Dr.10 Haddad Georgia from B.E. his got also He Engineering. Aerospace in the from degrees two�M.S.Technology,other of the Institute and Georgia TransportationEngineering and in Systems one (MIT), Technology of Institute Engineering Massachusetts Policy the Mechanical and from Management Technology and in Ph.D. Industrial his received He of professor. assistant department an as the joined recently of and spring the 2010, in Engineering of School the in courses teaching started Haddad Dr.Marc DR. MARC HADDAD in Lebanon thatintroduces studentstothenursingprofession. highschool movement.Administrativethe of Committee OrderNurses member the of a of Habre also is YoungProfessionals’the Medicine.LAU,in of Outside active she’s OutreachSchool LAU’s to a with Nursing,Center,Medical Beirut of University American the at nurse experience of wealth a brings Adult she in M.S. room emergency a an as time graduating and spent AUB.Having Balamand,Nursing, Nursing,from Emergency in concentration of in B.S. University the a was from has she distinction Habre supervisor. where with Nursing lab of simulation School clinical LAU’s a at previously instructor an became recently Habre Maha MAHA HABRE page 41 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Holding Court

Mens sane in corpore sana (“A sound mind Of course, some faculty members in a healthy body”) goes the saying, coined require a little more coaxing than others, Holding by Greek philosopher Thales. While he but a few are regular players, such as may not have understood its modern-day Dr. Ramzi Haraty, associate professor of Court implications at the time, it is indeed true computer science. “I really enjoy these that after a sustained period of toiling get-togethers; they are a source of stress Shooting hoops behind a desk it becomes particularly relief and a lot of fun.” important to get out of the office and “Team activities, whether formal and creating bonds engage in some physical activity. Exercise or informal, are great for enhancing By Mehrnoush Shafiei offers a multitude of rewards, and workplace wellness by improving when practiced at the workplace, those employee morale and by engendering rewards may extend beyond the realm of a healthy workplace culture,” says Dean rippling muscles. In fact, gearing up and of Students at LAU Beirut Dr. Raed participating in athletic activities with Mohsen, citing the benefits of increased fellow colleagues may help recalibrate confidence, stamina and teamwork skills, one’s entire mood and professional among others. outlook. “Any type of interaction that differs Naturally, trying to squeeze in physical from the traditional workplace interaction activity during a busy workweek is difficult enhances the team spirit. Since teaching by any measure, and even more so when is an individual performance, it’s good to one works at an institution as cerebral and perform as a unit although it is under the demanding as LAU. But Sami Garabedian, umbrella of sports,” Mohsen continues. fitness impresario and director of athletics Indeed, there are many similarities at LAU Beirut, has made it easier by between a harmonious work environment organizing friendly games of pick-up and a cohesive team on the court; for basketball every Friday at the campus example, reading non-verbal cues and gymnasium. adopting team spirit are the lingua franca of both worlds. Dr. Rima Turk Ariss, associate professor in the School of Business and Islamic banking specialist, participates in the games on a regular basis. “It is important for me to be active and use the opportunity to get together with fellow colleagues,” she explains. As one of the few regular female participants, Ariss dispels any notion that competitive sports are solely a male domain. Interestingly enough, recent studies have found that a whopping majority – over 81% – of female executives and CEOs played sports while growing up. “Certainly playing sports will give you an advantage in the workplace – the discipline and work ethic all translate into important life skills,” asserts Garabedian. At present, these games are informal, though Garabedian harbors the hope that they will include proper teams and extend to the staff and administrative organs of the university. “It would be great “The purpose of the weekly games to have tournaments where particular of pick-up basketball is to simply departments can compete against each get together, have fun and exercise,” other – this is where we plan to go Garabedian explains. The games are for the future,” says the ever-visionary intended to infuse an adrenaline charge Garabedian. into the weekly routine of LAU faculty and offer an opportunity to build social ties among colleagues.

page 42 Laptop ensemble fuses digital and fuses digitaland the BL acoustic sounds The New The New Kids on Kids on By MurielKahwagi O K’

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& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 LAU Sports Teams Around the World

Japan 95 Turkey 96 France 97

Lebanese delegation gets a warm reception Men’s volleyball team at the podium Women’s basketball team along with LAU athletes upon departure to Palma de LAU representatives pose during a spectacu- LAU delegation at opening ceremony at the at the airport in Fukuoka, Japan during a tournament held at the Bogazici French squad in Lyon, France Majorca, Spain lar opening ceremony at the 21st Universiade, American University of Cairo, Egypt University in Istanbul or World University Games, in Beijing

France 04 Greece 05 Turkey05

LAU football team pre-game briefing in LAU football team posing alongside Turkey imp026 LAU delegation at Women’s basketball coach Sarkis Korjian LAU delegation to the American College LAU women’s football team in a souvenir Essec, France American College of Greece (DEREE) Bogazici in the opening ceremony with LAU player Rita Mallah touring Camp of Greece in Athens photo with their Russian counterparts in squad in Thessaloniki, Greece Nou, a football staudim in Barcelona, St. Petersburg, Russia Spain and home to Barcelona FC

LAU Sports teams around the world By Zeina Abdallah and Nayla Abou Merhi

Women’s basketball team posing along LAU delegation arriving at Belgrade Italian rivals in Euro Barcelona tournament International airport

page 44 Essec, France LAU footballteampre-gamebriefingin at theairportinFukuoka,Japan Lebanese delegationgetsawarmreception squad inThessaloniki,Greece American CollegeofGreece(DEREE) LAU footballteamposingalongside University inIstanbul during atournamentheldattheBogazici Men’s volleyballteamatthepodium Bogazici intheopeningceremony Turkey imp026LAUdelegationat French squadinLyon,France Women’s basketballteamalongwith Majorca, Spain LAU athletesupondeparturetoPalmade Spain andhometoBarcelonaFC Nou, afootballstaudiminBarcelona, with LAUplayerRitaMallahtouringCamp Women’s basketballcoachSarkisKorjian S S p p ain ain 99 07 Italian rivalsinEuroBarcelonatournament Women’s basketballteamposingalong of Greece inAthens LAU delegationtotheAmerican College lar openingceremonyatthe21 LAU representativesposeduringaspectacu- or WorldUniversityGames,inBeijing Greece China S p ain 10 01 08 st Universiade, American UniversityofCairo, Egypt LAU ceremony delegationatopening atthe International airport LAU delegationarrivingatBelgrade St. Petersburg,Russia photo withtheirRussiancounterpartsin LAU women’sfootballteaminasouvenir Russia Serbia Egypt 01 11 09 page 45 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Celebrating e-excellence

Celebrating e-excellence LAU wins prize for student-friendly website By Muriel Kahwagi

Out of a total of 450 registered back in 2008,” says Karina Rodriguez, submissions, the LAU homepage and the associate director of the Marketing and LAU Office of Admissions website won Communications Department (MarCom), the silver and gold prizes, respectively, who managed the team behind the in the 8th Pan Arab Web Awards (PAWA) project. competition under the Education category. The 2008 overhaul was the fruit PAWA is a competition targeting web of collaboration between MarCom and business developers, aiming to and the Student Development and “The new webpages are promote – and raise the standards of Enrollment Management office (SDEM), – websites in the Arab region, foster a giving the homepage a dashing new tailored to students’ needs sense of innovation among web designers look. Consequently, a slideshow, a list and provide quick and clear and developers, and encourage various of upcoming events and a section for sectors in the Arab world to get involved in prospective students were added, among answers, helping them to e-services and digital economy. other features. navigate through the complex “This is a signal win, and I am very The Admissions Department’s award university application process.” proud of the copious efforts of the various was of notable value, as LAU was the teams that led to this great achievement,” only competing university that received —Dr. Elise Salem, vice president for SDEM says LAU President Dr. Joseph G. Jabbra. a prize, which was given for its student- Judging criteria for PAWA were based on geared website. “The new webpages are concept, content, creativity, visual design, tailored to students’ needs and provide ease of navigation and interactivity. quick and clear answers, helping them to navigate through the complex university application process,” explains Dr. Elise Salem, vice president for SDEM. In other words, “We tried to put ourselves in the shoes of high school students visiting the admissions page in order to see how we can make it easier for them to navigate it,” explains Zoya Zahabi, senior executive assistant at SDEM. In fact, the office periodically hosts brainstorming sessions with high schoolers in order to evaluate the admissions website from the perspective of prospective students, and find ways to improve and update it to optimize user- friendliness. “Getting to know your audience and speaking their language, while echoing the voice of your institution, lies at the very core of the website development process,” maintains Peggy Hanna, assistant vice president for MarCom. “This award is very important for us because it is a public recognition of MarCom and SDEM’s great efforts and hard work – not only locally, Indeed, “enhancing usability and but regionally as well.” improving the visual aspect of the LAU homepage were some of the main objectives when the website was undergoing major revamping and redesign

page 46 even inasmallway. – world the change could that something do at to Beirut, LAUencouragedparticipants reasoning moral and English teaches and consciousness Lebanese identity. historical a by of marked sense were talks the of Several motivations.and passions their discuss to members of the LAU community gathered Through a series of 18-minute lectures, 11 of Department YourPassion.”“Unleashing event, themed the live first its hosted of Humanities,TEDxLAU auspices the organized TEDevents. independently for stands “x” the where take that arebrandedTEDx,world placearound the events self-organized and local, widened, has scope its then, Since design. and technology, entertainment of worlds the from people together brought Spreading.” Worth originally“Ideas callsIt organizationfounded in 1984 that is devoted to what it nonprofit a is Design) and Beirut LAU’s (Technology, on TED Entertainment campus. home fitting a found for has whole a also as society of but betterment the ideas sharing for only not vehicle manifesto a as dialogue of whose use the for calls movement social A By MehrnoushShafiei TEDxLAU andbrightestofLAU showcases best community ofpassion Unleashing thepower “TEDxLAU really showcases the best best the showcases really “TEDxLAU ReineAzzi, who event curatorthe the of under 29, September Saturday, On Wiig or w Lf Srp, i which Script,” in Life Own Your “Writing entitled Samira talk poignant a gave instructor who Shami, English LAU veteran be “just kids.” to kids in allowing the of childhood importance stressed and own mountains her Lebanon’s of memories to talk, a giving difference,”shared a Ladkisaid. make she in purpose person, my one is touch that I and if imagination “Even unbridled freedom. of sense a the have to of children raising of benefits spoke social student, psychology and business LAU second-year a Ladki, Ghida Azzi.” Reine of encouragement and support the with 2011 26, May on LAU at here place in in movement took salon TEDxBeirut Lebanon. TED first “Our plays She the LAU spread Lebanon. helping role in the movement acknowledged awareness the cultivating of with credited is who Zougheib,Patricia series, TEDxBeirut can people share ideasandinspire where others.” space social a unique creating to hours countless dedicated who departments various LAU from all students were community,” volunteers “The LAU Azzi. said the of brightest and nte sekr t h eet was event the at speaker Another 21-year-old speaker, youngest The the of steward the was present Also accomplished!” mission was be: would verdict mission my inspire, to the student “If Absi. engineering Mohammad second-year said Jobrani. Maz comedian dance Iranian-American popular and program TED song talks worldwide, such as one featuring from screenings live the as well as performances, including into by entertainment among theattendees. and booths discussion stimulate and inspire to meant at were that activities stationed interactive supervised were who very community LAU proud.” make the should in that everyone something of is sharing ideas the event. thought- and dialogue for full-day provoking opportunity the an of “Creating manager Masri said advertising Hassan volunteers,” and of promotional group TEDxLAU said. terms,” Shami own your on life your live and are truly you who be to dare – time one live only “We passions. your pursue to daring of importance the stressed she TDLU a a ra success,” great a was “TEDxLAU ample infuse to sure made Azzi volunteers of army an of part was Masri the of part being inspired very feel “I TEDx LAU page 47 page

& alumni bulletin VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 MarCom Exchange

In recent years, international students – Joseph University, benefited greatly from MarCom both undergraduates and graduates – have the training she acquired, calling it “a been flocking from all corners of the globe formative moment” in her professional to LAU to participate in what has become development. Exchange: a highly coveted internship at MarCom. John Macdonald, an M.A. student The department’s vision of harnessing from the University of Chicago, came to young talent is realized as interns undergo MarCom in the summer of 2012 after A Foot in a training program specifically designed having already spent some time in Beirut to expose them to a wide variety of skills as a Summer Institute for Intensive Arabic the Door associated with marketing, branding and Language and Culture (SINARC) student, communication. and is jumping at the chance to return. By Mehrnoush Shafiei The interns hail from all different While MarCom has much to offer the backgrounds and disciplines, but a interns, it’s not a one-way street; the constant among them is that they all share department also benefits greatly from a go-getter sensibility. the exchange program. Macdonald, for The number of students MarCom example, brought a literary sensibility to hopes to bring on board in the future is the team and was often heard firing off a expected to increase – a testament to the fusillade of Shakespeare passages during success of the nascent internship program. lunch breaks. “As LAU is ever expanding as a leading “This experience has left me with a academic institution, we at MarCom have greater respect and understanding of the to meet the challenge and keep pace,” says role that marketing departments play in Peggy Hanna, assistant vice president of putting a coherent and attractive face on marketing and communications. the university,” says Macdonald, who is now Tamer Mallat, who interned in the a freelance writer for LAU Magazine. summer of 2009, is a graduate of Sciences Thea Khairallah, majoring in business Po in Paris and is currently pursuing a law marketing at Wake Forest University in degree. “The team was really welcoming, North Carolina, has already secured her and always available to guide and coach internship for Spring 2013. “I hope to gain me so I could improve my work,” she says. hands-on experience dealing with Middle “MarCom is all about perfection, style and Eastern clients on branding projects, which paying attention to detail.” will give me a better understanding of non- Former intern Ackhille Aercke, a US clients.” graduate of Institut Catholique de Toulouse Moving forward, the MarCom team in France, concurs: “I loved the high degree envisions its internship program to be of professionalism and the fast-paced even more expansive. environment.” If you are interested in an internship Jasmine Boutros, a student studying with MarCom, submit a resume and two economics and finance at New York writing samples. All candidates should have University, joined MarCom in the summer excellent verbal and written command of 2012. “I am harping at a chance to of the English language. Familiarity with return to MarCom. It was an amazing and design software or web technology is enriching experience,” says Boutros. definitely a plus, as is completion or pursuit Former intern Amanda Issa, who of a degree in journalism, communications studies business marketing at Saint or similar field.

Tamer Mallat page 48 a miscellany ofactivitiesfor children both andadults. 2012 at Centennial Park. Around 150 alumni and friends attended the event, and enjoyed 9, September Sunday on picnic a held TorontoChapter – Association Alumni LAU The Toronto Chapter– Annual familypicnic September friends attendedtheluncheon, whichlastedfrom 1p.m. until6p.m. and alumni Faqra,70 in than Lebanon.restaurantMore Urban,a at 26,2012 August on The LAU Alumni Association – School of Engineering Chapter organized its yearly reunion School ofEngineeringChapter–Lunch atUrban 300 alumnifrom universitiesattendedtheevent. both place at the Marriott Hotel Garden and included a medley of entertainment activities. Over Chapter,Jordan 6,August on 2012. Night took Ramadan event Annual The the organized JordanChapter,– Association LAUAlumni The WAAAUBthe of conjunctionwith Club in Jordan Chapter– Annual Ramadannight August at Maggiano’srestaurant inBoston. 27,July on met officers Chapter’s forBoston 2012 – dinner LAUThe Association Alumni Boston Chapter–DinneratMaggianos and enjoyedtheirevening, latestnews. catching uponeachother’s before(breaking(just fast)dawn).Sohour and Iftar event familythe and attended Friends Ramadan in the Gulf countries, in which people gather for a meal and socializing between on Ghabga Ramadan July 21, annual 2012 at the Gulf Hotel. The Ghabga its is considered a tradition of the holy month of held Chapter Bahrain – Association Alumni LAU The Bahrain Chapter–RamadanGhabga night July in Beirut.” reading and signing event. Her new is at book entitled “Jasmine and Fire: A Bittersweet year 2012 28, September book on Abdelnour’s Salma Arbor,author Ann Lebanese gathered forin Michigan Bookstore Nicola’s Chapter Detroit – Association Alumni LAU The Detroit Chapter–Book reading andsigning Café Munir, anewLebanese restaurant inthecity. 21, September on fordinner met at Chapter 2012 Seattle – Association LAUAlumni The Seattle Chapter–DinneratCaféMunir Alumni Events page 49 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Alumni Events October Montreal Chapter – Apple picking outing The LAU Alumni Association – Montreal Chapter gathered on October 7, 2012 at La Magie de la Pomme for a family apple picking outing.

November Beirut Chapter – “Mini Studio” show The LAU Alumni Association – Beirut Chapter staged the “Mini Studio” show for the children of alumni and their friends on November 3, 2012. More than 300 children attended the event, which also featured a Halloween costume contest, at the end of which the committee members of the chapter distributed presents to the children.

Alumni lecture – “Enneagram” The Alumni Relations Office organized a lecture entitled “Introduction to the Enneagram of Personality Types – Discovering new pathways to Success” on November 7, 2012 on the Beirut campus. It was delivered by Ms. Halla Ayla, a professional member of the International Enneagram Association. Over 130 alumni and friends attended the event, followed by a reception.

Alumni News

Elsie Guidotti (BCW ’60) attended LAU (then called BCW) as an Yahya Khalil (B.S. ’99) works for the ICRC as the Head of the Sub- exchange student. She harbors many fond memories of her experience Delegation for Southern Yemen where he manages all humanitarian and returned to Beirut in 2007. She is currently retired and lives in activities of ICRC. Yucatan, Mexico. She plans to host a reunion gathering in January 2013 for her fellow classmates who did a year abroad in Lebanon. Abdel Aziz Hajjar (B.E. ’99) has been based in Qatar for the past six years working with the Nada Ghazal (A.A.S. ’92) is a high-end jewelry designer with Lebanese company C.A.T. He has recently been boutiques located in Gemmayzeh and the ‘Beirut Souks’ downtown. promoted to Senior E&I Engineer on a project to She recently received the coveted Editor’s Choice Award for her construct of one of the largest District Cooling jewelry piece “Crawl” from the International Jewelry London (IJL) Plants. He, along with his pregnant wife Maya and committee, which recognizes the most creative and cutting-edge in three-year-old daughter Mila are happily awaiting jewelry design. the arrival of a new addition to the family.

Imad Abi Akl (B.S. ’93) is married and has two Dana Shdeed Sayyour (B.E. ‘02) has recently been nominated to children, Thomas and Theresa. He works at Al-Hayat represent the engineering sector in the Doctrine Council of the Druze Newspaper and is the circulation manager for the Sect—one of the few women to have achieved this position. She GCC and the Levant. intends to spend the next six years as a leader working to make a difference and improving people’s lives in Lebanon. Karim Ghazale (B.S. ’96) is currently based in Accra, Ghana, working in the field of building Ghada Ghazzaoui (M.A. ’04, B.A. ’80) married a material distribution. In 2000, he moved to fellow LAU alum Rajab Chebaro, in 1982 and they Houston, Texas where he worked for Master Tile, have two sons who are engineers, both living in a leading distributor of ceramic tile and natural Canada. She has been happily living in Montreal, stone. In 2009, he relocated to Beirut to work for Quebec since 2006 and works at the Ministry of Sara Group and was instrumental in expanding the Immigration in addition to teaching French at company’s business to Africa. He and his team established Haiflow Dawson College. SAL in Accra, Ghana in late 2010 and recently opened their first retail showroom where he serves as the General Manager.

page 50 as aMediaManagerhandlingthe Nestle account. MEC to moved recently She years. three past the agency—for media international leading OMD—a ’08) (B.S. Naboulsi Manal degree inelectrical engineeringinthenearfuture. the in seminars graduatea pursue to intends and field energy solar training conduct to Europe to travels often He domain. energy photovoltaic the Energy sarl. He specializes Somiralin for solar working energy; is specifically ‘08) (B.E. Hasbani Bechir others who can make thosedreams areality. to dreams with people connects that site up called The Dream Matcher—a networking social start- Upon web a established Carbondale. he Lebanon, to returning University at Illinois Management Southern Media and Media in Professional M.A. an completed and Scholarship Fulbright prestigious a granted was ’07) (B.A. Chehade Ali to workfor French pharmaceutical company Servierfor four years. LAU,fromgraduatingKuwait specialist.to travelledproduct After she a as Novartis for working currently is ’07) Pharm (B. Khaddaj Lana the into program, accepted for anambassador LAU. tobe hehopes be to alum first the As States. United the M.B.A.in University Hopkins Global John at program a graduate started recently pursue has He to studies. Scholarship Abdullah a National King granted the being before at (NCB) years Bank Commercial three for dealer market money senior a as worked ’07) (B.S. Maad Firas commercialmanager for theOmanbranch. a as eXtra) as known (also Company 2012 and has recently joined the United Electronics Fadi Shbaro (M.B.A. ’07) got married in September in living Beirut, is workingatByblospharmacy. and married recently has ’06) Pharm (B. Natour Jalal November by 2012. certificate the complete He to Dubai. hopes in Group Bradfield with Professional) Resources Human (Certified CHRP studying is and associate CIPD a is (B.S.’05) Saie El Mohammad itnto ad s urnl bsd n Florida in at theUniversityofTampa. based currently Systems Information in degree master’s a pursuing is and high with graduateddistinction ’08) (B.S. Chaar El Chadi producer daughter. andtheyhaveathree-year-old a as Jazeera Al at works husband Foundation.Her 2008 in Qatar the at works married she where Qatar to moved was and ’07) (B.S. Mustafa May a wrig with working was o Goacm aa evcs GS. e oe to pursue anM.B.Ainthefuture. hopes He (GDS). Services Data Globalcom for August 2012. He is currently in working as a network engineer Moscow in conference Leaders Global Preparing the in participated who graduate recent skill set. and knowledge his increase to degree HR an pursuing currently is He field. the in consultancies does and brands culinary popular various Resources Human Administratorcompanya at called Food”of “Ministry a manageswhich as working is ’12) (B.A. Shami Al Mahmoud at LAU. is planning and to do the CPA in the near future and pursue distinction graduate studies is Management.He Yields with at analyst business a graduatedas working currently ’12) (B.S. Takkouch Mazen program for refugees intheUnitedStates. CatholicMigration Commission, resettlementa on wherefocuses she currently working as a cultural orientation officer for the International is She graduating. upon Department Protocol the in Affairs Foreign ’12) (B.A. Awad Nelly fromoftheworld.him anunderstandingofpeople allparts giving for culture international and reputation strong its thanks with LAU, He games. football professional watch to Europe to East Region Middle the from people (FLY-FOOT.com), flies Fly-Foot which called company a opened He Channels. Distribution and and Marketing Business International in Masters degree double a finished he Firas Arab (B.A. ‘10) has been living in Barcelona for two years where andUNDP.NGOs suchasInternationalAlert numerous in involved Group.is House He Crown at Consultant Sales a also Parliament,Lebaneseis the and in office Gemayeh’s Samy MP [email protected] +9611786456 ext. 1341/1136 s a is ’12) (B.E. Nazi Abboud Joe a degree pursue infashionmaster’s design in Germany. a to intends as and working designer currently interior freelance is ’12) (B.S. Ayad Jasmin Please sendchangesofaddress to: Orebro University. graduation to pursue an M.A. in global journalism at upon Sweden to headed (B.A.‘12) Baidoun Aseel spent timeinCairospent filmingareality series. also and Producer Executive Center Assistant an as Broadcasting (MBC) East Middle the at working to foreign in moved career reform.educational or relationsPreviously, was has she a pursue ’11) to D.C. (B.A. Washington, Korban J. Eleena at assistant research a as working is present,he At Achrafieh. forStudiovision at stations TV producer international a with as worked then and worked years several ’10) for Writer News International an (B.A. as NOWLebanon Abdallah Marwan opee a itrsi i te iity of Ministry the in internship an completed page 51 page

& ALUMNI BULLETIN VOLUME 15 | issue nº 1 | Winter 2013 Why I Give Back

WHY I GIVE BACK Mohamad Yaghi Alumnus

Where do you live? I live on Lake Norman in Mooresville, NC—a suburb of Charlotte, NC—with my wife Rowida (LAU ‘96) and our three children: Sabeen, Maya and Adam.

What do you do? I practice dentistry in Charlotte. I own and run two large dental clinics with 22 employees, including four full-time dentist associates.

Why do you give back to LAU? My life journey has entailed a lot of hard work and the determination to overcome the obstacles I encountered. But hard work and determination were not enough when the rift between my dream of pursuing a college education and fulfilling that dream was too deep to overcome. The short time I spent at LAU (BUC) was different than any other time in college. I credit my time there for my success. BUC was the bridge that I needed to pursue my dream. Without it I would have never accomplished my goals.

How would you like to see your donations used by the university? Every dime LAU spends will eventually, directly or indirectly, benefit students. I believe the priority should always be helping students directly through aid and scholarships. With that in mind, I trust LAU to determine the use of my donation.

page 52 Raymond Audi  is fulfilling the PRomise.

Raymond Audi is not only a monumental force in the banking world, but a champion of civic engagement.

He founded and chairs one of Lebanon’s foremost banks, Bank Audi, in 1962. A passion for art, archaeology and architecture led him to establish the Audi Foundation, dedicated to preserving Lebanon’s cultural heritage.

Audi’s commitment to LAU runs deeper than financial support, as he also sits on the university’s Board of International Advisors. LAU awarded him an honorary doctorate in Humane Letters in 2007.

Bank Audi SAL–Audi Saradar Group has given to LAU on a number of occasions and most recently established an endowed scholarship to assist gifted students. An executive business hall at LAU’s School of Business has also been named after Raymond and his late brother George.

For more information, please contact:

Beirut Development Office New York Development Office Tel. (961) 1 786456 Ext. 1323 Tel. (212) 870 2592 Fax (961) 1 803658 Fax (212) 870 2762 P.O. Box 13-5053 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 1846 Chouran Beirut 1102 2801, Lebanon New York, NY 10115-0065, USA Scan this code with your Smartphone Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] to go to our giving page

Beirut Campus P.O. Box 13-5053 Chouran Beirut, 1102 2801 Lebanon Tel. +961 1 786456 / 64 Fax +961 1 867098

Byblos Campus P.O. Box 36, Byblos, Lebanon Tel. +961 9 547254 / 63 Fax +961 9 944851

New York Office 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 1846 New York, NY 10115 0065 USA Tel. +1 212 870 2592 Fax +1 212 870 2762 www.lau.edu.lb