Transforming Spaces: Renovations at Ain Aar Campus
Unraveling the Past: Rita Abela Nammour’s Journey Through Family History
Board of Trustees
Donald J. Selinger, Chairman
Imad Taher, Vice Chairman
John Khabbaz, Treasurer
William H. Turner, Assistant Treasurer
Bayard Dodge, Secretary
Gerrit Keator, Assistant Secretary
Richard Ward, Secretary
Elizabeth (Lizzie) Adelman
Selim A. Bassoul
Wael O. Bayazid ‘70
Frederik O. Crawford
Walid Daouk ‘76
T.M. (Mac) Deford
Amal A. Ghandour
Keith Gillespie
Melissa Gordon
Marylana Helou
Marwan A. Marshi ‘79
Safwan Masri
Mirna B. Noujaim
Mouhamad Rabah Ian Reed Matthew A. Reynolds
Mutaz Sawaf ‘69
Talal K. Shair ‘83
John G. McCarthy, Jr. Chris McGrath Maher Mikati ’98
Dr. Rabih Shibli Maya Tohme (Nassar)
FEATURES
Law with Diane
From IC to Fashion Icon: The Rani Zakhem Story
Gebran Massoud ‘48: Arabic Teacher and Head of the Arabic Department
CAMPUS NEWS
EVENTS AND DINNERS
ALUMNI UPDATES
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
IN MEMORIAM
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO…
COVER PHOTO: As part of the campus rewilding with Miyawaki forests, preschool students at Ras Beirut collaborated with the OtherDada to create a serene area with earth flooring and benches. They enjoyed messy play while learning to mix clay, sand, and straw for Adobe floor tiles and earth-based mortars. Photo by Adib Dada 25 22 19
Trustees Emeriti
Makram N. Alamuddin ‘61
Anwar Al Mulla ‘63
Mohamad S. H. Al Soleiman ‘59
Khalid Al-Turki ‘61
Mona Bawarshi ‘67
Said S. Darwazah ‘76
Peter H. Gerard
Issam Shammas ‘63
Anthony Jones
Thomas W.
Aida Reed (Luce)
Administration
Joel Peinado – President
Nawal Haddad - Vice President for Academic Affairs
Moufid Beydoun – Vice President for Alumni & Major Gifts
Talal Jundi - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Dr. Mahmoud Shihab – Vice President for Educational Development and Technology
Saturday, June 30th will mark my final day at the helm of our beloved IC. Leading this esteemed international educational institution, and collaborating closely with the IC faculty, staff, and parents, over the past five years, has been an immense honor.
Despite the challenges we faced, I can unequivocally say that joining IC five years ago was a wonderful decision that I will never regret. Together with the IC family members, we have conquered every obstacle thrown our way, maintaining our spirits and professionalism in the face of adversity. United as a team, we have achieved what seemed insurmountable, one day at a time.
I must also acknowledge the invaluable contribution of the administrative leadership team, whose dedication has been pivotal in steering the school towards continuous academic and operational excellence, even amidst turbulent times.
Undoubtedly, one of our greatest trials as a school community has been navigating through the devaluation of the Lira and the ensuing financial crisis. I must express my profound gratitude to the Business Department, as well as to the Human Resources Department, our alumni, and our generous supporters, without whom the school would not have weathered this prolonged economic challenge with such resilience.
Last but certainly not least, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Board of Trustees for their invaluable support towards the school and its personnel, under the exceptional leadership of Chairman Don Selinger and Vice Chairman Imad Taher.
As Helene, my wife, and I prepare to depart Lebanon and the school at the onset of summer, we carry with us the indomitable spirit and courage demonstrated by each of you over the past five years. In return, we leave a piece of our hearts here with you.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything.
Warm regards, Joel Peinado IC President
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
COMES TO IC
Q & A WITH Nawal Haddad, VP for Academic Affairs
Q: How do educators perceive the role of AI in curriculum development and the preparation of students for a future dominated by AI technology?
First, we want to look at AI as a moral imperative for modifying the curriculum and preparing students for a future with AI. This is necessary as we want our students to be global digital citizen leaders. So, our job is to equip our students with AI skills to help them navigate an AI future.
Q: Is there cause for concern that students using AI may not learn well?
A: We see AI’s potential. We adopted it quickly since it wasn’t a big change for us. The use of AI requires extensive research and fact-checking. Students must research a topic and verify all information from multiple sources. It’s a different approach, but it may be richer because they have easier knowledge access, but they must be more selective. And yes, AI may help students with their homework, which is normally not graded. However, it will not be with them on their exams, but they can still use it to prepare for them.
the summer. Because AI is changing by the minute and by the hour, we will incorporate it into our computer science curriculum, which is a living document from pre-k to 12th grade. Of course, it will be interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary because you cannot teach AI in isolation.
Q: Have we started training our teachers in AI?
A: The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) trained all our pedagogical leaders this past year, and more training is to come.
Q: How will AI help teachers?
AI will help teachers reach more learners with diverse t needs. AI allows teachers to create differentiated activities based on student needs in a slightly less demanding manner.
Will AI replace our teachers? No. Teachers will continue to be facilitators and guides on the side. However, AI may replace mediocre teachers or those who don’t use AI.
Q: What are the challenges of using AI?
AI can be a ‘frenemy’— both a friend and a foe. As educators, we hold a significant role in shaping AI education that promotes responsible and transparent student usage. We advocate for their ethical use of AI, ensuring it contributes to societal betterment. At IC, we are taking proactive steps by revising our integrity policy. AI presents a wealth of opportunities, provided students use it responsibly and align with our values of integrity and responsibility.
Q: What will the integration of AI into our curriculum look like?
We are planning to integrate AI into the curriculum. Pilot work has started, and the curriculum will be written during
Will teachers ever be obsolete? Again no. The human element remains. You’re getting to know your students by seeing their eyes, facial expressions, and reactions to your teaching. The emotional aspect is essential. Even before AI, IC had adopted the CASLE ( Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) framework.
Q: You took over the academics at the school at a very critical time. How do you feel about that?
A: I’m excited because it makes me feel we are resilient and have strong roots and foundations. We have faced every challenge in the past few years and emerged with a transformed school with impressive technological skills. Embracing AI accelerated our progress. We proudly consider ourselves a high-tech school, preparing our students for any future, including AI. As pedagogical leaders, we’re eager to lead our students through this exciting new world.
Q & A WITH Dr. Mahmud Shihab, Vice President for Educational Development and Technology
Q: How are we going to implement AI at IC?
A: After researching several platforms tailored to school-appropriate topics, we found that MagicSchool was the best platform designed for the K-12 educational environment. At the same time, we had our Differentiated Instruction (DI) initiative and realized that you could do a lot of differentiation using AI. Now, teachers are embedding these AIdifferentiated activities in their unit plans on Atlas, Toddler, and ManagBac—our three curriculum platforms.
Importantly, the school’s technology use is also governed by our regulations, particularly our Responsible Digital Citizenship policy. IC’s academic integrity policy also directs the appropriate AI use for students, faculty, and staff.
Q: How will the education level change in the next few years?
A: We don’t know what is ahead in AI, so the best solution is teaching students resilience. Adapting, readjusting, recalibrating, and planning for the next phase is dynamic; thus, creating plans without flexibility no longer works. It’s time to teach pupils how to develop goals dynamically and adaptably. We give them tools to inspire and challenge them based on our vision and mission. Since there are many unknowns ahead, this is how they prepare for the next phase.
Q: What is MagicSchool?
A: MagicSchool brings out the best of all large language models (LLM), mainly that of ChatGPT-4 and Google Gemini, and makes them available through an interface that is easier for school students and teachers to handle. At IC, we deeply value the importance of safeguarding the personal information of our students and educators. We chose MagicSchool because it adheres to the requirements of student privacy and data protection laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Children’s Online Privacy and Protection Act (COPPA). Teachers can use this AI engine to create lesson plans, differentiated activities, rubrics, and more. Students can
also initiate research, brainstorm with the Raina chatbot, and use the references used in this research to enrich their scope of thinking.
MagicSchool depends heavily on critical thinking skills. While students and teachers can benefit from 80% of the generated content, they still must fill in 20% from their own critical thinking and background information to contextualize the information generated from the AI platform.
Q. Are we then moving away from teaching traditional subjects like grammar and writing?
No, AI engines offer students multiple language usage options and examples indefinitely. Traditionally, teachers spend a lot of time looking for extra practice resources. AI is tireless and provides endless samples. Now, teachers can focus on content, methodology, and projects rather than time-consuming tasks. Students can dream bigger and achieve more with AI, allowing them to focus on smarter and richer ideas.
Q: Would you say education is on the brink of a change?
Absolutely. We are witnessing the start of this change, and it will come gradually. Significant research is underway in computer science, artificial intelligence, coding, and language departments. Language is a fundamental skill acquired in school because it underpins learning in all subjects. There is now active research on language and AI use for language acquisition. We should anticipate the results of this research as schools are eager to enhance student learning using AI.
Q: Are you apprehensive or excited about the AI journey ahead?
A: AI is not frightening, but it can become scary if people misuse it. Technology can be utilized for cyberbullying and other harmful purposes. Every technology has both positive and negative aspects, and it’s up to educators to guide their students and schools in developing and enforcing policies that promote responsible use of AI and other technologies. We must focus on encouraging and promoting appropriate and responsible use of technology.
TRANSFORMING SPACES: RENOVATIONS AT AIN AAR CAMPUS
In a move to improve the grounds of IC’s Ain Aar, many areas of the campus have seen a refreshing makeover that goes well beyond aesthetics.
Three indoor playgrounds, a cafeteria, an auditorium, two tunnels connecting the two buildings, and multipurpose areas have been renovated so far.
“ Judging by the many happy smiles, Ain Aar’s students were thrilled with all the projects.”
The indoor play areas now have colorful structures, soft flooring for safety, and interactive games. The lower playground, specifically designed for preschoolers, focuses on developing fine motor skills through engaging sensory activities.
“We wanted to enhance children’s gross and fine motor skills, dexterity, eye-hand coordination, and concentration,” said Zeina Abou Khalil, Director of Ain Aar Lower School. “That’s why we transformed our indoor play areas into educational spaces.”
Next door, a recently refurbished multipurpose room now has two interactive whiteboards, a new entrance for simple and quick access, and live-streaming cameras for parents when needed.
This doesn’t mean that children will miss out on any energetic activities. Bikes, slides, and other play equipment have simply been relocated to a nearby outside area, allowing them to choose between engaging in structured educational activities or enjoying classic playground fun.
Moreover, a new STEAM room was added to the lower school to improve functionality, and an art room was built to encourage creativity.
Additional renovations were carried out in the upper and middle schools. This involved installing a new sink with a cabinet, air conditioning, heating system (radiators), covering exposed pipes, new doors, an exterior window, and fresh walls. Notably, a new steam room was added to enhance the functionality of the art room further. The scope of work extended to upgrades in the electrical room, bathrooms, changing rooms, and creating a new IT room. The ramp entrance received a makeover with new paint and ceiling installation, while the snack bar was redesigned to offer expanded seating.
With the invaluable support of the AA Parents’ Committee, a thrilling transformation took place in the auditorium, turning it into a cutting-edge facility equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system and a redesigned stage. This upgraded auditorium can now comfortably accommodate up to 161 people.
“The auditorium and the cafeteria have become focal points of connection within our school community,” said Lara Kmeid, AA Middle School Director. “Students gather at the cafeteria not only to enjoy meals but also to build friendships, share stories, and collaborate on school projects. Similarly, the renovated auditorium has strengthened our community’s sense of belonging.”
Judging by the many happy smiles, Ain Aar’s students were thrilled with all the projects. Little did they know that behind the scenes, extensive collaboration between the physical plant departments from both Ras Beirut and Ain Aar campuses was instrumental in completing the renovations. During last year’s Easter break, carpenters, electricians, and welders dedicated their holidays to the projects. IC’s skilled carpenters crafted house-like columns in the book area, creating cozy reading nooks.
Educational and sensory games were mounted on the numerous columns in the space, enticing the little ones to explore and develop their motor and sensory skills. Other physical plant personnel meticulously installed a ventilation system, soundproofing, rubber flooring, lighting, artificial ceilings, and acoustic walls.
In the summer, renovations began on the second playground, cafeteria, and auditorium. Again, both physical plant departments spent much of their hot summer days creating another wonderland.
Overseeing the projects was Rola Rahal, the dedicated Physical Plant Facility Manager, who had devoted significant time to these projects and whose hands-on approach ensured that all aspects of the renovation plan were completed successfully.
“I was excited to demonstrate the capabilities of the physical plant,” she said. “We are more than just maintenance; we contribute ideas and value to the school. We succeeded in making incredible improvements to these spaces.”
Next phase: Ain Aar Gymnasium construction - scheduled to begin in the summer.
Changing Lives: IC’s Scholars Program
Inthe elegant living room of her Gemayze apartment, Mishka Mourani’s face lit up with a radiant smile as she discussed one of her favorite topics: The IC Scholars Program.
“I am still in touch with many of them,” said IC’s former Senior Vice President. “I am so proud of them.”
“ We care about our surroundings and want to give young people, not just IC students, a chance to improve their lives.”
She opens a paper listing over 100 graduates from 1997 to 2017—her last year as IC’s Senior VP—and lists their accomplishments.
“She’s at Harvard. He’s pursuing his PhD at MIT. He’s now a doctor. She’s at Stanford,” she said.
It was 1999 when the first group of scholars came to IC. They had heeded a newspaper ad that IC sought outstanding students to join its classes. There were conditions, of course. They should have passed the brevet with at least a ‘mention très bien,’ had to be at the top of their classes at their school, passed IC’s entrance exam with flying colors, and had proof they were in financial need.
In return, IC would provide six students each year with a three-year fully paid scholarship, transportation, and book allowance.
“We opened it up to schools from all over the country,” recalled Mourani. “The schools were not thrilled about losing their best students, but it was an opportunity for these kids they would never have dreamed of.”
Mourani recalls the start of the scholarship program vividly. It was 1997, and IC was beginning its first accreditation process. It happened that an alumnus was dining at the Mourani household and discussing the accreditation process when he proposed an intriguing idea.
“I’d like to help IC students facing financial difficulties,” he said. “Especially students of satisfactory standing, like I once was. And yet, I have done very well in my career. From now on, instead of traveling first class, I will travel economy and donate the difference to IC.”
Then and there, he committed to covering the tuition of ten IC students until graduation (this would eventually become part of the current and ongoing tuition assistance program at IC).
A few months later, Mourani found herself once again discussing scholarships during a meeting with visiting board member Lachlan Reed, the grandson of IC’s founder in Turkey, Rev. Alexander MacLachlan.
“What are we doing to attract gifted young people to IC?” Reed asked her. “Only those who can afford IC come. What about others?”
Mourani volunteered to write a proposal. Thus, the IC Scholars Program was born: a three-year scholarship that included tuition, transportation, and book fees, in addition to counseling services to help students integrate into the school culture. In 1999, the first six students were selected. Subsequently, starting from the third year, there would be a total of 18 scholars at IC every year.
The responsibility for funding the program was entrusted to the capable hands of the Alumni Department. In his office at Thomson Hall, Moufid Beydoun ‘64, the VP for Alumni and Major Gifts, joined IC two years after the Scholars Program began. Since IC does not fund this program from its own resources, part of Beydoun’s role is to secure donors for the program.
“IC has always been committed to our community,” he explained. “We care about our surroundings and want to give young people, not just IC students, a chance to improve their lives.”
By the time Mourani retired in 2017, she had seen 200 students go through the Scholars Program.
In 2019, the Ali Ghandour Center for Leadership, Diversity,
and Civic Engagement (AGC) was established. With joint funding from IC and the Ghandour family, the center aims to strengthen the school’s ethos and mission. Headed by Rindala Abdel Baki, it is the region’s first secondary school initiative, linking the Scholars Program with giving back to the community. Through a sequential three-year program, students are enabled to become agents of change in their communities while enriching the diversity of the student body at IC.
Like the Scholars Program, the AGC employs a highly selective process. This includes conducting home visits to understand the candidates’ family context better, and an additional step of visiting public and subsidized schools to recruit top-performing students. Selected students receive full financial and psychosocial support.
By 2024, 140 students, including 42 scholarship recipients, had participated in the AGC program. Each year, an average of eight scholarship students join alongside a selected cohort of IC students in a journey that starts with extensive volunteering and training and culminates in leading their own Community Service Projects (CSPs).
2015 -2016
AGC students’ enriched profiles are highly regarded by international and local universities seeking well-rounded, skilled, and impactful additions to their student bodies.
“This is a true transformative journey for the scholarship students as well as for the IC students who have joined the program,” said Abdel Baki. “The rich exposure to real-life challenges and the genuine relationships leave their marks on the students who gain invaluable insights and resilience, and are prepared to be proactive, empathetic leaders making meaningful contributions to society.”
Maya Chebaro ‘05, IC Middle School Director
Receiving the scholarship to attend International College was a critical turning point in my life. Without this opportunity, I believe my life would have been vastly different, primarily because my parents, both public sector employees, wouldn’t have been able to afford such a prestigious education. This would have significantly limited my academic and professional choices.
It all started when Dad spotted a newspaper ad for the Scholars Program. He cut it out and handed it over to me, saying, “Check this out, and let’s see if you can work towards it.” I was in grade 8. Two years later, it materialized!
The scholarship provided me with an exceptional education and laid a
solid foundation for my future studies at AUB, where I pursued a degree in Biology and a Masters in Neuroscience. The rigorous academic environment at IC prepared me well for the challenges and high expectations at the university level.
Had it not been for this scholarship, I might not have been in a position even to consider a career in education, particularly at such a renowned institution like IC.
Nora Chokr ‘08, Assistant Professor and Hematologist
I graduated from the IC Scholars Program in 2008. I am currently an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City. I am a hematologist focusing on bone marrow/stem cell transplantation and cell therapies for patients with blood cancers.
I am grateful to have had the chance to be part of IC’s wonderful and nurturing community. It opened doors of opportunities and shaped me as a person. IC sets students on a path filled with possibilities and opportunities. Beyond academics and extracurriculars, IC brought me closer to peers and mentors who influenced my personal and professional development. I formed deep connections with classmates, creating a support network that extends far beyond high school. These friendships are still a source of encouragement, inspiration, and collaboration every day. Above all, I met my husband, Rayan Beydoun, in IC, and we now have a beautiful daughter.
The pride of being an IC student will never fade away!
My journey from a scholarship recipient to becoming the middle school director at the same institution is a testament to the powerful impact that access to quality education can have on an individual’s life. It’s more than just financial support; it’s about recognizing potential and giving individuals the means to achieve their fullest potential.
Therefore, I firmly believe I would not be where I am today without the IC scholarship. This program is crucial as it opens doors for talented individuals who, due to financial constraints, might not have the opportunity to excel and contribute effectively to society. The Scholars Program at IC not only transforms the lives of individuals but fosters a culture of giving and success that benefits the entire community.
Hadi Ramadan ‘07, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital
International College (IC) has been instrumental in shaping my life and guiding me to where I am today. IC provided me with a strong foundation that facilitated my acceptance into the American University of Beirut (AUB) and, subsequently, AUB Medical School. The academic rigor and social skills I developed at IC were crucial in achieving my goals. Moreover, IC blessed me with lifelong friends who continue to enrich my life and offer invaluable support. Thanks to the comprehensive education and network I gained at IC, I am now graduating as an infertility specialist from Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School and have accepted a position as a Harvard Clinical Instructor alongside my clinical responsibilities.
Ali Ghandour Center for Leadership, Diversity and Civic Engagement PROJECTS 2024
With a mission to address electricity shortages sustainably and effectively, Solespark focuses on providing solutions to one of Lebanon’s public institutions. The students built and developed a prototype to address energy challenges, ensuring a reliable power supply while promoting environmental sustainability. Through collaborative efforts with the IC STEAM Lab and Amlieh Technical School, the students created a prototype that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy through stepping. This innovative approach not only provides a practical solution to immediate energy needs but also fosters a culture of innovation and sustainability within the institution.
Unuthati.Period challenges menstrual stigma while offering sustainable and affordable options to increase access to sanitary products at Barbar Al Khazen Women’s Prison.
Collaborating with the Pachamama Project and WingWoman Lebanon, who developed different types of reusable pads, the team combined elements to create the most practical and effective reusable sanitary products. Through this partnership, women prisoners received training in crafting these pads, equipping them with self-sufficiency skills. Moreover, profits from selling these pads will be returned to their families. This collaboration has led to producing more than 100 reusable pads for distribution.
At the heart of its mission, SahhaTeen strives to improve the emotional and psychological well-being of students from low-income families attending Laure Mghayzel Public School.
Collaborating with Laure Mghayzel Public School, Embrace, and the IC Head of Counselors, the project aims to increase accessibility to various support services. Additionally, SahhaTeen is developing a well-being club within the school and organizing a well-being day to promote mental wellness among students. Through this pilot project, SahhaTeen seeks to create a new mindset in public schools where mental health and well-being become integral parts of the school culture.
KATRAMEEZ
The goal of the Katrameez project is to support single mothers in Tripoli while they deal with the difficulties brought on by the economic downturn. It aims to empower these women to utilize their culinary skills and establish sustainable sources of income for themselves and their families. In collaboration with the Lebanese League for Women in Business, Katrameez reached out to single mothers in Tripoli who underwent food safety training with Dr. Christelle Skandar from AUB. Under Chef Reem Azoury’s guidance and access to Ruwwad Al Tanmya kitchen facilities in Tripoli, the mothers developed ready-to-eat recipes. These recipes will be branded and sold at various local markets, allowing single mothers to generate income and support their families. Through this project, single mothers received tangible support and resources, empowering them to overcome economic hurdles and build sustainable futures for themselves and their families.
IBDAA’BILAKHUTOOT
Focused on improving care practices and cultivating a positive atmosphere, Ibdaa’ Bila Khutoot is a project dedicated to enhancing the environment at Bayt Al Yatim Orphanage. Collaborating with the orphanage’s staff and the IC Head of Art Department, the initiative aims to provide comprehensive support, focusing on integrating art into the students’ well-being. Orphanage caretakers received training from the IC Art Department on incorporating art therapy techniques into daily care routines. A dedicated art room will also be established at the orphanage to serve as a creative space for the children. Here, they can express themselves, engage in therapeutic activities, and explore their emotions through art. By nurturing this creative outlet, Ibdaa’ Bila Khutoot aims to improve the well-being of orphaned children, ensuring they receive the care, attention, and creative stimulation they need to thrive emotionally and mentally.
AYA AL AYASH, IBDAA’BILAKHUTOOT
Today, throughout my project, I am more than proud and honored to be able to give back to my community and impact it positively. Not only that, but I was able to ensure the sustainability of my impact. Personally, I am part of the AGC cohort or, to say, part of the AGC family. Such programs have helped me gain countless valuable abilities, such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. These are the ones that last for a lifetime, and at times, I think about the type of person I would be if I hadn’t stepped into this unknown, intimidating, yet exciting environment.
LETITIA AL HAMMOUD, SOLESPARK
I used to be shy and gave up on things quickly. But this project made me realize that all goals, even big ones, are attainable. I never used to work in teams. I never liked it. I prefer to work alone. But thanks to our project, I learned to work with a team and communicate with them. I now understand that working collaboratively allows me to benefit from other team members’ skills. I learned to listen and trust others, which I never did before.
MARIO DAMIANI, SOLESPARK
AGC really helped me with my way of thinking on many levels. I feel I matured because our project helped me to empathize better with my community. I also learned to coordinate between various team members, which I could not do before. I learned to work through friction between people. I used to be impatient. But now I understand that problems arise, and that is ok. We have to keep our cool and find a solution. It feels great to be able to help people. Maybe it wasn’t much in the grand scheme, but at least we are leaving our footprints in the bigger picture.
AMIRA MALAK MRAD, UNUTHATI.PERIOD
Through my project, I was able to reflect on how I can give back to my community and become an agent who plays a role in changing someone’s life for the better. I can now put myself in someone else’s shoes and think about their situation before judging. I used to jump to conclusions before knowing the full story, but now I have learned to pause and consider other people’s perspectives.
In my years at AGC, I feel like I received hands-on experience dealing with realworld issues. I am a natural planner. So, it was difficult for me at first to come up with quick solutions for our many problems. There were a lot of random things that needed to be fixed. But I learned to go with the flow and develop quick problem-solving skills. The project also helped me develop my formal communication skills in Arabic. I usually have issues speaking Arabic, but in this project, I had no choice but to speak it with the people we were working with. So, my Arabic has really improved a lot.
JUDE CHAHINE, KATRAMEEZ
Unraveling the Past:
Inthe absence of a more fitting term, Rita Abela Nammour’s ‘72 search for her family’s history was, by all accounts, a riveting journey, though the mere word “journey” does little to capture the essence of her story. Nevertheless, childhood stories of Maltese ancestors and the Abela crest proudly displayed in her home came together and unfolded in a tale that began in the 12th century on a once desolate island known as Malta.
Rita Abela Nammour’s Journey Through Family History
Her father, Edwin Abela ‘37, had always been interested in the family’s history. But then, Rita, distracted by her youth, only listened half-heartedly. It was sadly only after his passing that his words began reverberating in her thoughts.
“There were so many questions I would have loved to ask my father, but I didn’t, and I regret it,” said Nammour. “I was always very close to the family, my grandmother and father, and I loved how they were always together. I wanted to find out about our past. I wanted to do it for my father.”
Her first stop was the internet, where she sought clues. There, she discovered numerous mentions of Abelas, but no accompanying narratives existed. She then turned to old newspapers. Curiously, in 1900, the New York Times thought it worthwhile to report on a row between two Abela youngsters and a fish hawker.
She had now become irresistibly captivated. She threw herself into research and started piecing together the jigsaw of her heritage one piece at a time, reconstructing stories dating back to 1282, when Catalonian Ferraro Abela was granted Malta for his services during the Sicilian Vespers uprising and revolution. From then on, son bequeathed son.
A fun fact emerged: Among those sons was the notorious pirate Bartolomeo Abela, who made his wealth investing in eastern and central Mediterranean piracy vessels.
In the 16th century, Jacomo Abela immigrated to Acre. But his grandson, Youssef (Joseph), moved to Lebanon and eventually settled in Sidon.
As Nammour meticulously placed her ancestors within their historical contexts, her extensive family tree yielded more stories. Personal encounters with prominent figures such as Napoleon, Ahmad Pasha Jazzar, Lady Hester Stanhope, Emir Bachir Shihab II, Daniel Bliss, Cornelius Van Dyck, William Woodbridge Eddy, William Thomson, Abdel Kader al Jazairy, Gertrude Bell, Bahai Abbas Effendi, Mishkin Qalam, Dahesh, Bishara el Khoury, and Kim Philby all emerged in historical accounts.
When Malta became a Crown Colony of the United Kingdom, and the Maltese became British subjects, the British1, still considering the Abelas to be Maltese, appointed Youssef (Joseph) Abela as the vice-consul for Sidon and its port – a title bestowed on several generations until 1914.
As vice-consuls, the Abelas witnessed and reported on the events of the day, including horrific eyewitness reports of the 1860 massacre. The reports were duly filed with the British government and eventually stored at the National Archives in London, where Nammour located them.
More adventures unfolded, including the discovery of significant archaeological findings such as the sarcophagus of Phoenician King Tabnit I of Sidon, dating back to Egypt’s 26th dynasty - found adjacent to the garden of Shibly Abela (Nammour’s great-grandfather). Shibly, a physician who had enrolled in the Abey Seminary and practiced medicine with American missionary physician Cornelius Van Dyck in Sidon, had the rare opportunity to examine the Tabnit sarcophagus. His observations continue to be cited to this day.
1Until today, the Abela family continue to receive British nationality.
Zaher el Umar
Lady Hester Stanhope by Micheal Abela
The Abelas, several of whom graduated from AUB, were also critically mentioned in Rev. Daniel Bliss’s memoirs. In one instance, Bliss recounted an incident involving medical student Kaysar Abela and a classmate, where Kaysar promptly summoned his father and uncle following a dispute. However, it emerged that Kaysar was largely at fault, which proved to be a significant embarrassment to his parents.
“The great Abelas,” he noted. “They gave up their threats about legal arrests and returned wiser men and a good deal humbler for making fools of themselves.2”
Nammour’s research traced her grandfather to Haifa, where, as British vice-consul, he reported on the building of the Hejaz Railroad in 1900. There, Pietro married Henriette Comati, as announced in AUB’s al Kulliyeh in the 1913-1914 volume. They had seven children. Two of them—Albert ‘39, Edwin ‘37, and Joseph Abela’43 — eventually became catering tycoons when they formed the Abela Group in 1948.
But another surprise discovery — or rather a shock — awaited: it turned out that she and her husband, Bechara, share the same great-great-grandfather, Dr. Youssef Abela.
It soon dawned on Nammour that all the incredible stories needed to be gathered in a book. Her father had already sketched a short history of the Abelas, but the information before her went well beyond any sketch. Thus, she began writing her manuscript, “A Sentimental Journey: The Story of My Abela Family.”
“I wrote it for my children and their children,” said Nammour, a mother of four and grandmother of three. They were very attached to my father, so I thought they, too, would like to know where they came from.”
What began as a few chapters quickly expanded into full-fledged narratives. Before she knew it, she had a substantial tome spanning 180 pages. On Christmas 2021, each child was proudly presented with a copy (They loved it!)
This summer, Nammour is traveling to her ancestral home in Malta for the first time. With her newly found documents proving that she is a British citizen from Malta, Nammour now has lineage rights to the Maltese nationality.
“I want to see where it all started,” she said. “But I do not feel British or Maltese. I feel 100 percent Lebanese, as my father did before me.”
2Bliss,Daniel,andDouglasRugh.LettersfromaNewCampus:WrittentoHisWife Abby and Their Four Children during Their Visit to Amherst, Mass., 1873-1874. Beirut: American University of Beirut, 1994.
Pietro Abela and Family
LAW WITH DIANE
Even the name of her Instagram page is simple: Law with Diane. No frills. No flourishes. Diane Assaf ‘01 calls it as it is. She offers straightforward explanations, cutting through legal jargon to simplify the complexities of ongoing legal cases.
It is imperative to Assaf that the average Lebanese understand the nation’s legalities. She sees this as a way for them to protect themselves against any unscrupulous politician who may exploit the public by using the law’s intricate loopholes.
“I don’t take sides,” she explained, “but when it’s illegal, I say it is illegal.”
Unfortunately, many Lebanese individuals with a limited understanding of the law are unknowingly being deceived.
This is where Assaf steps in. She explains every case in clear terms and highlights the pitfalls that often go unnoticed by most.
Take the lifting of banking secrecy, for instance. It sounds promising. Here’s the hidden detail: it doesn’t apply to family members—a fact not easily discernible.
It is, however, to Assaf. “Lawyers like me see the small technical details, and the devil is in the details,” she said. “So we point this out. So they (politicians) know that we are watching them. We know what false information they may give out. We make it more difficult for them to fool people.”
“ It is imperative to Assaf that the average Lebanese understand the nation’s legalities. ”
Assaf’s initial motivation to launch her Instagram page arose in the aftermath of the devastating Beirut port explosion, which tragically claimed the life of her close childhood friend, Krystel al-Adem.
Still reeling from the shock, Assaf watched incredulously as the investigation into the explosion unfolded. Her anger mounted. She was a lawyer. She knew the ins and outs of legal jargon, the wrongs and rights. She knew the flaws.
And she knew that people needed answers. She was not going to remain silent. “I couldn’t just continue working behind my desk as if nothing had happened,” she said. “I felt this need to change something in my life. I wanted to get out there and bring justice to the Lebanese. I wanted to spread legal awareness. Even if only one person benefits, it will make a difference.”
Assaf posted herself on Instagram explaining the legalities of the probe
in everyday layman’s terms. She was surprised by the vast following she gained. The Lebanese wanted to know.
“They deserved to know,” she stated emphatically.
As the country faced increasing challenges, Assaf’s posts multiplied.
“ It’s basically legal news being explained depending on what is happening. ”
“It’s basically legal news being explained depending on what is happening,” she said. “And so much is happening.”
Driven by a mission to empower the public with legal knowledge, recognize corruption, and bring about justice, the posts soon became her passion.
“There is so much injustice in Lebanon,” she said. “If people don’t understand the specifics, then they will not understand how easily they can be fooled.”
Lebanon is governed by civil law, which evolved from the legal systems of continental Europe, particularly France. By the time Lebanon obtained its independence in 1943, French law was so engrained in the system that Lebanese judges and attorneys still use and quote it today. Although certain laws may be considered archaic, others genuinely benefit the people. However, many of these are largely unknown to the public and thus remain unenforced.
“Even more frustrating is the occasional adoption of new laws by Parliament that remain unenforced,” she said. “The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws become. These new laws are passed to divert attention. We must enforce the ones we already have and stop political
interference in the judicial system. This is critical. Just let the judges do their job.”
Assaf came to be seen as an activist lawyer, and judging from her days at IC, this description seems most apt. She was known as the student who stood up for the underdog in class, was highly vocal about almost anything, and occasionally faced consequences for her unconventional behavior.
“ Most gratifying were the many messages she received from young Lebanese followers.”
At university, she emerged as one of the student leaders, actively involved in organizing student movements, demonstrations, and rallies.
With both parents as lawyers, Assaf naturally followed in their footsteps and pursued law.
Today, Assaf is a mother of three young boys and has lived in Dubai for the past two years (she works remotely with Lebanese clients). During the Lebanese expatriate elections, dozens of Lebanese approached Assaf, informing her they came to vote because they followed her Instagram account. Her passionate love for Lebanon had stirred them.
Most gratifying were the many messages she received from young Lebanese followers, who said she had inspired them to study law. Equally heartening were messages from engineers, artists, doctors, and others who told her they were now grasping the legal concepts they once found daunting and poorly explained.
“My goal is to help establish a functional justice system amid the current paralysis,” she explained. “I want to effect change in the country’s legal system through awareness, explaining the laws, and providing tools to advocate for a better system. That is essentially what my page is all about.”
To access Diane’s Instagram page: lawwithdiane
From IC to Fashion Icon: The Rani Zakhem Story
Daring to dream, he did. Recess often found the young boy immersed in IC library books and fashion magazines. Before long, he became his classmates’ fashion sage, the go-to expert for outfit coordination.
Fast-forward 23 years. Rani Zakhem ‘01 is an internationally acclaimed designer—an icon celebrated for his striking couture creations, which blend sophistication with artistic flair.
He has captured the attention of local and international celebrities. Zakhem modestly lists his clientele. Among them: Zendaya, Betty White, Carrie Underwood, Hilary Duff, Kelly Rowland, Kaley Cuoco, Elisabetta Pellini, Jennifer Nettles, Angelica Huston, Queen Latifah, Geena Davis, Jacki Weaver, Angham, Najwa Karam, Balqees, and Hiba Tawaji.
And Mariah Carey. That was in 2022. It turns out the diva singer made a last-minute decision to attend the Global Citizen Festival in New York after a common friend mentioned Zakhem’s work to her. Upon seeing his designs, she was sold. The elated designer had just ten days to create a glamorous gold sequin dress. He rose to the occasion, and Carey took the stage wearing a seethrough “Rani Zakhem mermaid gown with a plunging neckline, bejeweled with 10,000 Swarovski crystals,” as enthusiastically reported by US newspapers.1
A few days later, Carey herself sent him a message: “It was a pleasure working with you. Thank you, you just exceeded my expectations. Beautiful dress and impeccable craftsmanship”.
Born into a family rooted in the construction industry, he was destined to continue its legacy. And in a way, he did. He earned a BS in Interior Architecture and remains on call for the company’s needs.
“This was my second love,” he said. “I didn’t see it as a compromise because I’ve always been passionate about architecture.”
However, once he received the traditionally valued degree, he applied for and was accepted at Parsons School of Design in New York.
Again, fast-forward to 2008: the stock market crash. It was a devastating blow to the fashion industry. It was not the time nor place to be a budding fashion designer. Zakhem was effectively unemployed. It was an intimidating beginning. Finally, bolstered by strong internships with Yigal Azrouel, Carlos Miele, Patricia Underwood, and Zuhair Murad, he
moved back to Lebanon and opened his atelier. It was a calculated risk, but one worth taking at the age of 25.
In this cutthroat world of fashion design, Zakhem knew the importance of strategically carving out his niche. After all, he had been self-studying fashion since he was a small boy growing up in Kenya, eagerly devouring his mother’s fashion magazines as soon as they arrived from abroad.
“I’ve always had the vision of what I wanted, even as a child,” he said. “It wasn’t like I didn’t know what I was doing. I knew exactly what I wanted to do.”
He also recalled the advice given by a respected professor from Parsons. “Rani,” she had said. “Everyone wants to be on the cover of Vogue and become that international designer. But few designers want to take on the challenging aspects as they don’t see its glamour.”
Zakhem was ahead of his time. He saw one of those challenging aspects: the curvier woman. Designers then still prioritized excruciatingly thin models over those with more voluptuous figures. The plus-size woman was forgotten or overlooked.
In 2009, in an avant-garde move, he boldly broke into the market, creating sequin skirts, jewel-tone maxi skirts, intricately cut blazers, and sheer floral silks for women size 12 to 24.
“Designing for a size 0 is much easier than designing for a curvier person,” he said. “But I wanted the challenge.”
If Zakhem was aiming to create a buzz, he certainly succeeded. His stunning debut in the Arab world propelled Rani Zakhem to the top of the global fashion scene, leaving an enduring mark across the prestigious fashion capitals of Milan, Rome, London, New York, and Paris.
Since then, the Rani Zakhem label has expanded to cater to all sizes, boasting various collections, including bridal, haute couture, and ready-to-wear lines.
The first celebrity to wear him was renowned French actress Firmine Richard in 2010. The event was the Cannes Film Festival. He remembers the moment he got the call. “I was at a friend’s house and started jumping with joy,” he said. “It was my first assignment.”
The young designer dressed the actress in a green organza tunic, ruffled on the shoulders and enhanced with a black satin bow at the waist. The design made the papers the next day – catching the eye of other celebrities.
Since then, “It just grew organically,” he said. “I started getting calls from potential clients abroad.”
Zakhem prefers to remain based in Beirut – where the craftsmanship is “impeccable” and more affordable. His next step is launching a boutique and venturing into the trendy world of e-commerce.
At only 40 years old, Zakhem is still at the beginning of his journey.
“It’s been a learning curve so far,” he said modestly. “You learn from your failures. You learn to evolve and keep moving forward. It is still a work in progress.”
Mariah Carey
Queen Latifah Zendaya
Hélène Ségara & Julie Zenatti
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO…
Q&A with
Gebran Massoud ‘48
Arabic Teacher and Head of the Arabic Department
Q: When did you start working at IC?
A: In 1951, I joined IC. I was 21 and I had just earned my Bachelor of Arts with distinction in Arabic Literature and History (1950). I would later earn my Master of Arts in Arabic Literature (1953) at AUB while working at IC. I was offered a job at Broumana High School, but since I used to be a student at IC, I wanted to teach at my school. So, I was employed to teach Arabic, history, and geography. I taught 6eme and 5eme, then took on the
Terminale classes. I remember that in my first year, two or three students were older than I was! (In those days, IC accepted older students). I remember Rockefeller Hall’s large basement projection room. Teachers took turns using it. I showed my students many geography slides there. Later, I became the head of the Arabic Department. For transportation, I depended on the tramway to get to IC. Sometimes, there were no seats, so I stood on the tram step. I would arrive at IC soaked on rainy days!
Q: What did you like most about IC?
A: I loved the diversity of the students. We had students from all different religious backgrounds. Even today, I still receive their holiday greetings and send my best wishes on their religious holidays. The atmosphere of the school was amazing. If you ask me to teach now, I will go right back to IC.
Most importantly, IC—specifically in the teacher’s lounge—is where I met my wife. Josephine Kallas (who sadly passed away in 1990) taught history and geography in the English section. I was only 25 when we married. We had four children.
Q: How many books have you authored?
A: I have published 30 books so far. The first one I wrote was right after I graduated from secondary school. I was only 18, and I wrote: رـمـحلأا
(Rimad al ahmar). My father gave me 1000 LL to print it. It was very well received, especially in Iraq. My professor at AUB used to call me his colleague, not his student, because he was also an author!
One of my books was
Many, many years later, in 2016, IC honored me for my contributions to the field of education at a ceremony held at Martin House. I had then just released one of my other books, “Poetry Through Centuries.”
My other publications include autobiographies of diverse authors and an eight-volume series on Arab Literature.
At the same time, I was giving a course in Islamic Studies at AUB.
Q: How have you been spending your days after leaving IC?
“ The atmosphere of the school was amazing. If you ask me to teach now, I will go right back to IC.”
(Al Moheet fi Adab al Baccalaureate), which became used extensively in Lebanese schools.
My biggest accomplishment was creating
(Al Raed Al Kabir: Raed Al Tullab). It was the first Arabic dictionary to list words in alphabetical order. Previously, students had to trace a word back to its root to find its meaning, which many found challenging. The idea originated from an incident when I was teaching 6th grade. One student consistently came unprepared for assignments involving reading Arabic texts. When I finally asked him why he didn’t just look up the words he didn’t understand in the dictionary, he replied, “I can’t use the Arabic dictionary. It’s too hard!”
That’s when it struck me to create a user-friendly dictionary for students. It wasn’t an easy task—it took me 15 years to complete. There were three versions: large, medium, and a pocketbook edition. However, I received numerous accolades for my work when it was finished. Both the Lebanese government and IC awarded me honors for my book. Lebanese President Charles Helou granted me the National Order of the Cedar, and then IC President Thomas Schuller granted me the Order of the IC award.
When I first left IC, I established a pre-k to 12-grade school with IC’s English teacher, Philippe Najjar, and another educator. We called it “Al-Manar”. It was in Hazmieh. It was my vision of a perfect school. Many of our students received “special mention” in the baccalaureate exams. But during the Civil War, it was destroyed. I then became busy with my printing house. While at IC, I started “Bayt al Hikmat”, in an old Ashrafieh building. I continued working there until the owner pulled down the building in 2008 to build one of these tall modern buildings. I didn’t reopen after that. I just stayed home.
But I continued to write. I just published my latest book, which is my 30th, earlier this year: يننلآا بضغ (Ghadab alAnine) - Anger of Nostalgia. It is an autobiography, and a big part of it is about my days at IC, especially as I was very involved in giving lectures all over the country.
But I am now 94, and my eyes are getting weaker, so I don’t think I will be able to write anymore. Reading is difficult, too. I have a huge library. A few years ago, I donated about 2000 books to the IC library, but I still have a lot here.
Now, I sit on my balcony in Ashrafieh and look at the neighborhood. This is the same neighborhood that I grew up in. Once, our home had a lot of visitors. Neighbors used to drop in continuously. But now, they are gone. Some have died, and others have moved away.
I have so many wonderful memories to reflect on. I have led a very full life. And for that, I am grateful.
Gebran Massoud’s books, including his latest, يننلآا بضغ, are sold at Librarie Antoine.
Dr. Megan Khairallah, Nawal Haddad, Maya Chebaro, Kathy Khayatt
Nawal Haddad, Joel Peinado
EVENTS and DINNERS
DUBAI SUHOOR
March 20, 2024
L to R: Lara Temsah ’04, Rabih Fakhreddine ’04, Moufid Beydoun ’64, Hiba Osseiran
Café Beirut
BEIRUT SUHOOR
April 5, 2024
Mövenpick Hotel
L to R: Wael Itani ’90, Hisham Mneimneh ’93, Wassim Kabbani, Karim Noueihed ’98, Naji Hmaidan, Ziad Saad ‘97
L to R Standing: Zeina Fakih, Rima Othman, Hiba Osseiran Sitting: Malak al Zaim, Rana Malli, Zeina Chatila ‘79, Nada Sabbah ‘88
IC DINNER PARTY
May 22, 2024
La Scène, Gemaizeh
Board members Melissa Gordon and John McCarthy
L to R: Rabih Halabi, Hiba Osseiran, Maya Zeinoun ’02, Lara Temsah ‘04
L to R: Dialla Diala Douaihy, Lubna Abi Kassem, Sylvana Maria, Areej Razouk, Sandra Mouawad
L to R: Rana Dakroub, Najla Saab, Carol Noueihed ‘97, Zeina Annan ‘87, Roula Doughan, Dr. Samer Doughan ‘83, Karim Noueihed ‘98, Wael Sanyoura ‘94, Ziad Dakroub ‘89, Dr. Wassim Kabbani ‘81
L to R: Dana Kassasir, Nada Nakib, Lara Temsah ‘04, Nour Turk, Tala Reya, Aya Yassin ’05, Mariam El Sahely, Maya Hallab ‘10
Nabila Awad and Moufid Beydoun ‘64
Board member Imad Taher and IC President Joel Peinado
Lebanese singer Melhem Zein
FUNDRAISING
Why are we fundraising?
Lara Temsah ‘04, Senior Development & Alumni Officer
Simply put, we fundraise to cover part or all the tuition for students who can’t afford it.
IC never asks students to leave for financial reasons, especially during the ongoing economic crisis. We have not denied tuition assistance to any families.
There are several reasons for this. First, we want our students to stay at IC because they are part of our family. Second, we want to help parents provide their children with a bright future.
Third, an IC education is crucial as Lebanon struggles with its economic crisis. Students at IC become ethical, capable leaders. These students are Lebanon’s future, so we must give them an excellent, well-rounded education.
Fourth, the education sector in Lebanon has been badly shaken recently. However, IC has not only survived but thrived. This places an even greater responsibility on us to keep our students in class. As we all know, a child’s education will ultimately benefit the entire community.
In what ways does IC rely on fundraising?
Hiba Osseiran, Major Gift Fundraiser
Since its founding in 1891, International College has relied heavily on various fundraising efforts:
Annual Fund Program: This program provides scholarships and financial aid, crucial for maintaining diversity at the school.
Endowment Growth: The endowment provides IC with long-term financial stability, generating income that supports financial aid for students and faculty and keeps the school resilient in the face of economic crises. Having managed this fund wisely, we accessed it during the country’s collapse, ultimately saving the school.
Capital Campaign: The ‘Partnership for Excellence Campaign’ supported the construction of new facilities and the renovation of existing facilities, labs, libraries, and classrooms, enhancing both the student experience and IC’s infrastructure.
Faculty and Staff Support: Donations to the endowed chair directly support our staff, helping us retain high-quality personnel.
In my humble opinion, effective fundraising is the key to the school’s sustainability and advancement.”
Where does the money raised go?
Moufid Beydoun ‘64, Vice President for Alumni & Major Gifts
Your donations support several goals: first, the tuition assistance fund. As you know, not everyone can afford an IC education. We are an expensive school due to our operating costs, but we offer a great deal in return. From the outset, our goal was to avoid being an exclusive institution. We have a financial aid program to attract students from diverse backgrounds. Contrary to popular belief, not all of our parents are very well off. Since the beginning, we have had a diverse mix of students from all walks of life, as we have always upheld a non-discrimination policy in our admissions process and financial aid allocation program.
Moreover, in the past three years, we have fundraised for the Solidarity Fund to support our faculty and staff during the financial crisis.
Your donations have funded the beautiful new buildings on the Ras Beirut campus and the extensive renovations at Ain Aar. We did not want to increase tuition or student numbers, yet we needed to enhance our facilities. To match our state-ofthe-art education, we required a state-of-the-art campus. Our Board of Trustees was the major donor for this campaign. We also reached out to our alumni, friends, and parents, and they generously responded. The magnificent campuses your children enjoy are a testament to their support.
Our fundraising efforts continue. As the face of education changes, our facilities must keep up. We are investing in the latest educational tools. We will once again turn to the IC community for support. We remain adamant that tuition never covers financial aid or the costs of fundraising efforts for our facilities.
Honoring Abboud & Associates for their 60 Years of Loyal Service to IC
In April, Abboud & Associates was honored for its 60 years of dedicated service to IC. Lawyers Tatiana Itani and Nadim Abboud proudly accepted the award on behalf of the firm.
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UPDATES ALUMNI
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Makram Alamuddin was honored to be a Trustee “since many many years,” he wrote. “How years go by! I am now a Trustee Emeritus although I don’t feel I deserve this. Living in the US since 2009 but follow the news of my Alma Mater with interest and pride. IC is a beacon and has produced leaders all over the world. My years as a student were filled with wonderful memories. Keep up the great work and Mabrouk to this year’s graduates. Go forth with pride and purpose.
Suheil Muasher was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the American University of Beirut in June, 2023. “This is the highest honor bestowed on me during my whole career as an academic physician/ teacher,” he wrote. “I attended IC for the last two years of High School, and I had a wonderful experience and a superb education. My times were different as I was a boarding student at Sage Hall and I met so many students from different Middle Eastern countries as well as Lebanese students who came from the North and South of Lebanon and were boarding students as well. IC had wonderful and dedicated teachers, and I benefited a lot from their mentoring. I have carried IC in my heart and mind ever since.”
1975
Osman Sakr sent the following message: “I would love to share my story with you and with all the alumni and students of IC. Its core value is rooted in our Lebanese culture, in our family values, and the impact of our upbringing by IC as a strong and resilient school with a Never Give Up attitude. This led to accomplishments and achievements in our offsprings as we taught them all the values we gained.
I left Lebanon at the end of 1975, due to the civil war for the United States. There, I earned a degree in electrical engineering, married, and had four boys. The teaching and life lessons I gained from being Lebanese first, from a strong interconnected and loving family added to the teaching and friendships I gained in being an IC student, fostered the strong and determined mindset of our kids.
Their story is a testament to the accomplishments that could be achieved when all factors of culture, family, and schooling are blended to foster the determination in overcoming all obstacles and challenges even when the market is down and strongly competitive.
My boys have been the outcome of what was ingrained in my upbringing and the opportunity the market has presented to them. First and foremost, they followed their passion and their love for what they wanted to do, and created a clothing brand that went beyond fabric. Their success was driven by a culture of overcoming obstacles and never giving up. With social media as their tool, they created strong brand messaging that resonated with many and harnessed the
Nicholas Khairallah sent in the following pictures:
Nicolas Khairallah visiting beloved maths professor Robert Courson at Sacré Coeur Hospital.
Latest gathering IC promotions 1960-1961. From left to right, bottom to top: Nabil Abboud, Nadim Afeich, Gaby Gharzouzi, Soheil Metni. Malek Mahmasani, Nicolas Khairallah, Sami Nasr, Nassim Afeich.
power of affiliation and influencing. Giving back to their communities, to customers, and to their followers was a key differentiator. The company is Civil Clothing. The boysOmar, Michael and Dustin Sakr, with their brands Darc Sport and Civil Regime were recognized and selected by Ernst & Young for Entrepreneur of the year 2024 in Los Angeles.
Dustin and Omar Sakr at the podium at the EY event recognized as selected Entrepreneurs for the Year 2024.
Letterstothe Editor
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Isam Kaysi said, “The year 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of SETS Group that I co-founded back in 2004. At that time, SETS was established as a small consultancy specializing in transport planning and roadway design. We have grown to a team of over 700 and have diversified and transformed into a fullsuite multidisciplinary consultancy. Since our establishment, we have expanded our geographic presence, establishing offices and specialist teams across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region while providing services in East Africa, Europe, North America, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. As I reflect on my dual career track as co-founder of SETS and Professor of Civil Engineering at AUB, I feel that I have been blessed with an amazing journey of technical and thought leadership, team building, and serving our communities. With that in mind, and having graduated with the IC Scholar’s award in 1980, I cannot but think about my years at IC and how they prepared me for this journey as an independent thinker, initiative taker, and committed professional.”
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Ara Malkhasian drove up to Austin from Houston with his spouse Alison to visit Khalil Shalabi ’84 and his brother Hani (left IC in ’84) who was visiting Austin from Dubai. The four of us had dinner at Khalil’s house and reminisced about IC and Beirut.
Hello IC Community.
I was delighted to read the interview with Mrs. Samia Sullivan in the IC Spring Newsletter 2024. It is truly pleasing to know that she is in good health.
I was a boarding school student at IC between 1980 and 1983, the year of my graduation. These 3 years were enjoyable and filled with lovely memories.
During these years, Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan were entrusted with the boarding school challenging duty at the time of the Lebanese civil war. They lived at the roof top of the boarding school building (the most vulnerable part during shelling) located outside the IC campus in between the western gate, at the playground area, and the Manara corniche road.
I will never forget Mr. & Mrs. Sullivan’s parenthood for all the students, and of course the famous tobacco smell from Mr. Sullivan’s pipe.
May God bless Mrs. Samia Sullivan and grant her longevity and wellbeing.
Best Regards, Fayez Takieddine - Class of 1983 19 April 2024 Riyadh – Saudi Arabia
Michael,
Osman Sakr with his wife
In Memoriam
We regret to inform you that Ghaleb Solh ’91 passed away in May 2024. IC faculty and staff send their deepest condolences to the Solh family.
We regret to inform you that Wael Abu Hamzeh ‘61 passed away in April 2024. IC faculty and staff send their deepest condolences to the Abu Hamzeh family.
In Loving Memory of Pr. Robert Sacy (1950-2024)
On 10 May 2024, the world lost a remarkable soul, Pr. Robert Sacy, a revered doctor, a beloved professor, and above all, a visionary.
Robert dedicated his life to the betterment of humanity, especially the youngest and most vulnerable among us. Throughout his medical career, his exceptional skill earned him the admiration of peers and patients alike. But Robert was more than a healer of bodies, he was a nurturer of minds. As an esteemed professor, he inspired and shaped generations of medical students, instilling in them not just knowledge, but a deep-seated compassion and an unrelenting drive to make a difference.
Robert was a dreamer at heart. He committed his life to advocating for children’s rights, striving to create a world in which every child could thrive. In pursuit of these ideals, he founded the NGO ASSAMEH Birth and Beyond, through which he and his team provided quality healthcare to thousands of children from underprivileged backgrounds.
Pr. Robert Sacy has touched and saved countless lives, bringing hope and healing where it was most needed. He will be remembered not only for his medical brilliance and educational contributions, but also for his boundless dedication and the profound impact he had on the lives of so many. His mission will live on in the hearts of all those he loved, trained, and inspired.
May his memory be a blessing and may his legacy continue to light the way for future generations.
In Memoriam
Farewell to Our Beloved Trustee and Alumnus, Yusuf A. Kan’an ‘71
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our trustee, Yusuf A. Kan’an ‘71. Mr. Kan’an was a distinguished individual who held numerous esteemed positions, including Area Managing Director of Consolidated Contractors Company SAL (CCC SAL), Honorary Consul of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC – Lebanon), member of the Board of Trustees of International College (IC), member of the Board of the Chronic Care Center (CCCL), member of the American Lebanese Chamber of Commerce (ALCC or AmCham), member of the Council of Economic Organizations, and member of The Lebanese Hellenic Business Council. Mr. Kan’an’s contributions and dedication to these organizations were invaluable. * * *
“Yusuf’s presence on the Board and his fondness, dedication, and support for IC will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace.”
Donald J Selinger Chairman International College
“IC lost a deeply caring and dedicated board member. I remember very well my first introduction to Yusuf before he was a board member back in the early 2000’s. He struck me then as a quiet but very thoughtful and kind soul. I was pleased to have him join the board and valued his well-measured and deliberate insights and questions during our meetings.
My deepest sympathies to Rola and the family. IC lost a great friend, and I will miss him,
Member of the IC Board of Trustees
I was really shocked to hear the news. I met Yusuf last week at the Buildings and Grounds Committee meeting, and he seemed fine to me. He jokily asked if I could install an elevator for him so he wouldn’t have to walk up the stairs.
Yusuf always urged me to get him involved more, and I was going to suggest him as Deputy Chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee. This is a sad moment indeed. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. God bless his soul, and may he rest in peace.
Imad Taher
Member of the IC Board of Trustees
With the untimely passing away of Yusuf, I have lost a very dear, true, and genuine friend. I will always miss you, dear Yusuf, and fondly remember all the good times we had together. My most sincere condolences to Rola, Afif, and Dana.
Moufid Beydoun ‘64 VP for Alumni & Major Gifts
Ian Reed
International College P.O. Box 113-5373, Beirut, Lebanon. Tel. 961 1 367420/33, Email: alumni@ic.edu.lb 305 East 47th Street, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10017
