United in their generosity toward Lebanon’s students and cancer patients, more than 300 alumni, friends, and trustees of the Lebanese American University (LAU) have lent their support to the “Give to Learn, Give to Live” benefit culminating on September 9 in the annual fundraising gala, held at the prestigious Metropolitan Club in New York City.

In his opening remarks, President Michel E. Mawad delivered a dual appeal: to support students in their quest to build and safeguard their future, and to help cancer patients hold on to dear life. “Both groups,” Dr. Mawad added, “are most vulnerable and in dire need of all the help they can get and they represent the highest priority for LAU.”

Spearheaded by a committee of six trustees and three spouses of trustees who volunteered their time and know-how, the gala was a testament to LAU’s continued commitment to excellence in education and healthcare in Lebanon. The committee was chaired by Trustee Nijad Fares and included Board Chairman Philip Stolzfus, Dr. Francois Nader, Raymond Debbane, Ambassador Edward Gabriel, Dr. Mawad, Zeina Fares, Micheline Nader, and Manal Saab. It also included LAU’s own Dr. George Najjar, Nadya Mikdashi, Ed Shiner and Erika Iverson.

Attendees voiced deep appreciation for the university’s pivotal role in Lebanon and the region as it contributes to shepherding the country out of its current multifaceted crisis. Their generous donations raised a bar in leadership and advocacy and reflected a genuine commitment to the future of LAU as a century-old institution, and to Lebanon.

The event program included two major honorees: Mrs. Maha Kaddoura and Mr. Adib Kassis, both distinguished philanthropists whose service spans decades. It also featured video testimonials from students, physicians and patients at LAU Medical Center-Rizk Hospital.

The ongoing fundraising campaign has raised thousands of dollars to support LAU financial aid programs as well as cancer patients in fulfillment of a promise made by LAU to stand by its vulnerable family members and assist them through difficult times.