USJ Alumni in New York: Celebrating Heritage, Shaping the Future

As part of a North American tour led by Prof. Salim Daccache, S.J., a delegation from Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) visited New York to connect with Alumni and deepen engagement with the Lebanese diaspora. The team included Prof. Christian Makary, President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations; Prof. Carla Eddé, Vice-Rector for International Affairs; Mrs. Cynthia Ghobril Andrea, Director of Fondation USJ-HDF; and Mr. Dany Maalouly, USJ’s Fundraising Director. At the heart of this journey was the celebration of USJ’s 150th anniversary, a milestone that honors the University’s enduring legacy while reaffirming its ongoing commitment to academic excellence.

The visit officially kicked off on April 30 with a private dinner graciously hosted by Mr. Ray Debbane and Mr. Berge Setrakian. While Mr. Setrakian is a 1972 graduate of the Faculty of Law of USJ, both hosts are members of the Board of Fondation USJ-HDF and longtime friends of the University. Surrounded by a group of around twenty Alumni and friends, the evening was marked with engaging discussions and a spirit of unity around USJ’s vision for the future. In recognition of their unwavering support, Prof. Daccache presented the USJ 150th Anniversary Commemorative Medal, along with a numbered edition of the book Patrimoine, 150 ans d’héritage et d’excellence, to both Mr. Debbane and Mr. Setrakian.

The following day, on May 1st, the Lebanese Consulate General in New York, under the patronage of Consul General Mr. Majdi Ramadan, welcomed over a hundred Alumni, friends, and members of the Lebanese community for a heartfelt reception. The evening featured the screening of the 150th anniversary film, a moment that stirred emotion and pride as guests reflected on the University’s legacy and future.

In his address, Consul General Ramadan highlighted the pivotal role of USJ as the first Francophone university in the Middle East and a cornerstone of higher education in Lebanon. He underscored the importance of Lebanon’s academic institutions in shaping generations of professionals and leaders, and called for continued support to help them endure and thrive, especially in today’s difficult context.

In turn, Prof. Daccache, expressed his gratitude to the Consul General for his warm welcome and generous hospitality. He also took the opportunity to reflect on the University’s journey, stating: “Our university celebrates 150 years of rich history, but we remain committed to an ongoing struggle for excellence in education. This mission continues with renewed passion and purpose, inspired by the support of our Alumni and friends around the world.”

Further reinforcing this spirit of connection, Prof. Christian Makary extended his thanks to Ms. Nadine Khoury, Coordinator of the New York Alumni Chapter, for her dedication. He invited Alumni to reconnect and take part in reactivating the chapter, reminding everyone that USJ has not only produced graduates, but has nurtured responsible citizens and future leaders.

To bring this memorable evening to a close, Ms. Khoury offered Pr. Daccache, on behalf of the Alumni Committee, a book on the artistic heritage of the Vatican. Mr. Bassel Kikano then presented a trophy to Prof. Daccache, on behalf of the Jamhour Alumni – US Committee, as a token of appreciation. The delegation also presented the USJ 150th Anniversary Commemorative Medal to Consul General Majdi Ramadan, in recognition of his steadfast support, generous welcome, and his efforts to foster a strong sense of community among Lebanese abroad. His gesture of solidarity served as a touching reminder of how deeply the University’s mission resonates beyond Lebanon’s borders.

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