Under the theme “Celebrating Connections and Honoring Excellence," the Arab Open University – Lebanon held a landmark dual event: the election of the Administrative Board of the Alumni Association and the AOU Alumni Gala Dinner 2025. Hosted at the Middle East Training Center, the celebration gathered more than 250 attendees, uniting distinguished guests, accomplished graduates, academic leaders, and friends of the University in an evening that honored achievement, dedication, and community spirit.
The ceremony welcomed a remarkable assembly of dignitaries, including Member of Parliament Dr. Edgar Traboulsi, Minister Paul Mourkos, Dr. Hassan Denawi, Director General of the Tripoli Special Economic Zone, Dr. Hani Shaarani, Director General of the Rashid Karami International Fair in Tripoli, Capt. Ahmad Kumarji, and Lebanese National Basketball Team Captain Amir Saoud, among others. Their presence underscored not only the national relevance of AOU's mission but also the confidence placed in its role in empowering Lebanon's youth.
In her keynote address, Rector Dr. Yara Abdallah spoke of the University's transformative journey and its role in shaping future-ready graduates. She reaffirmed the university's commitment to academic innovation, sustainable development, and entrepreneurship, emphasizing that as the University approaches its 25th anniversary in Lebanon, the Alumni Gala stands as a symbolic moment connecting the legacy of past accomplishments with an ambitious, expanding future. She also announced ongoing preparations for a new University building and the launch of new academic programs designed to meet emerging national and global needs. Addressing the alumni directly, she added that the university follows their achievements with pride and considers them essential partners in the mission.
Following her remarks, Dr. Ghadi Moukalled, Head of the Student Affairs Department, announced the establishment of the Prince Talal Bin Abdulaziz Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, dedicated to enabling impactful student and alumni projects with social and economic value. He explained that the award reflects the founding vision of the University and will become a permanent annual platform celebrating creativity, leadership, and societal contribution, with winners announced each November during the Alumni Gathering. The competition will encompass three tracks:
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Technological Innovation in Education
- University Impact
The evening continued with a message from journalist Bassam Abou Zeid, who highlighted the University's pivotal role in Lebanon's academic landscape and reaffirmed that the determination and resilience of Lebanese students remain fundamental to the nation's hope for a better future.
Lebanese National Team Captain Amir Saoud then delivered a powerful motivational address, speaking candidly about perseverance, ambition, and personal conviction. Reflecting on his own journey, he encouraged students and alumni to pursue their passions regardless of external pressures. In recognition of his inspirational leadership, the University presented him with a commemorative honorary shield, awarded by Dr. Ghadi Moukalled and Eng. Zakaria Charara.
A defining moment of the gala was the celebration of ten highly distinguished alumni, honored for their excellence, initiative, and continued contribution to their communities. Each received an honorary scarf and ring, presented by Vice Rector Dr. Dani Aoun:
- Dr. Wael Ameen Al-Deeb
- Dr. Al-Amira Hiba Al-Amir Mounib Hishi
- Nadim Tony Ghantous
- Rana Nabhan Kiwan
- Aya Abdulsalam Taki
- Mohammad Mostapha Al Siblani
- Asdghig Berj Jamboulian
- Tarek Hassan El-Bacha
- Rasha Mohamad Jalal Otabashi
- Haissam Marwan Hmeidan
At the close of the evening, Dr. Wael Ameen Al-Deeb was officially elected President of the AOU – Lebanon Alumni Association, marking the beginning of a new phase of alumni engagement and leadership.
This gala reaffirms times and times again the university's unwavering commitment to nurturing a connected, inspired, and empowered alumni community. It stands as a testament to the University's expanding impact, its dedication to opportunity, and its steadfast role in supporting the aspirations of Lebanon's students and graduates.
To our alumni, you remain the heartbeat of this institution, the living proof of what AOU stands for and what it continues to strive toward. Your achievements fuel our mission, and your presence strengthens our belief in a brighter future for Lebanon.
A heartfelt thank you to every guest, partner, organizer, and contributor who made this evening possible. Together, we continue to build a legacy of excellence, connection, and hope.
