USJ Alumni in Cleveland Celebrate 150 years of Legacy, Loyalty, and Hope

USJ Alumni based in Cleveland gathered on May 6 for an evening of reflection and shared pride in their Alma Mater. The event marked a joyful celebration of the 150th anniversary of Saint Joseph University of Beirut, a milestone that brought together generations of graduates in a spirit of unity and gratitude.

The evening unfolded in the presence of a visiting delegation from Beirut, led by Rector Prof. Salim Daccache, S.J., and including Prof. Christian Makary, President of the Federation of USJ Alumni Associations, Mrs. Cynthia-Maria Ghobril Andrea, Director of the USJ-HDF Foundation, and Mr. Dany Maalouly, Fundraising Director. They were joined in Cleveland by Mrs. Randa Hakim, Director of the USJ North America Office.

Kindly organized by Dr. Charbel Noujaim, a 2021 graduate of the Faculty of Medicine, the gathering began with a Divine Liturgy at St. Maron Maronite Catholic Church. The service was celebrated by Fr. Patrick Kassab, parish pastor and graduate of the Faculty of Religious Studies, alongside Prof. Daccache.

Following the liturgy, attendees came together over dinner at “Taza”, a local Lebanese restaurant. The evening was filled with warm conversations, shared memories, and renewed connections, a true reflection of the lasting ties that unite USJ Alumni across time and continents.

Prof. Makary encouraged the group to see this gathering as the beginning of a new Alumni Chapter in Cleveland, inviting them to strengthen their network, enhance their Alma Mater’s presence abroad, and carry forward the values that define USJ’s legacy.

Prof. Daccache described the evening as “a beautiful expression of unity and belonging,” deeply moved by the commitment and enthusiasm of the Cleveland Alumni, and their unwavering connection to their University, especially amid the challenges faced in Lebanon.

This Cleveland stop is one of several in the USJ delegation’s U.S. tour, part of a broader international tribute honoring 150 years of academic excellence, social engagement, and Jesuit spirit. Events like this reaffirm the strength of the USJ community and its vibrant presence around the world. Founded in 1875 by the Jesuits, Saint Joseph University of Beirut remains one of the Middle East’s most respected institutions of higher education. Rooted in a tradition of academic rigor, social responsibility, and interreligious dialogue, USJ continues to shape leaders committed to building a better future for Lebanon and beyond.

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