Celebrating a Century: Lebanese American University’s Gala and the Future of Education
September 2, 2024, 10:10 pm
Location: United States, California, Mountain View
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 1986
Lebanese American University (LAU) is stepping into a new era. As it celebrates its 100th anniversary, the university is poised to honor two remarkable individuals at its Centennial Gala in New York. This event is not just a celebration; it’s a beacon of hope for students and a testament to the university's enduring legacy.
On October 3, the historic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library will host this momentous occasion. The gala will recognize global pop icon Elissa and Synopsys CEO Sassine Ghazi. Both honorees embody the spirit of LAU, showcasing excellence in their fields and a commitment to community service.
Elissa, a three-time World Music Award winner, is more than just a singer. She is a voice for women, advocating for breast cancer awareness and fighting against domestic violence. With over 30 million albums sold and a staggering 4.5 billion views on YouTube, her influence is undeniable. She stands as a symbol of empowerment, inspiring countless individuals to rise above adversity.
Sassine Ghazi, an alumnus of LAU, is a titan in the tech industry. As CEO of Synopsys, he has driven the company to unprecedented heights, achieving record revenue growth. His leadership has positioned Synopsys as a key player in silicon design solutions, with a market cap exceeding $80 billion. Ghazi’s journey from LAU to Silicon Valley is a testament to the university’s ability to nurture talent and foster innovation.
The gala is aptly titled "A Tribute to the Past, A Promise for the Future." It aims to raise funds for student scholarships, research, and patient care. This mission is crucial, especially as many students in Lebanon face dire economic circumstances. The funds generated will pave the way for a brighter future, allowing more students to access quality education at LAU.
The Sarah Huntington Smith Award, named after an American missionary who founded a school for women in Beirut, will also be presented. This award reflects LAU’s commitment to education and empowerment, values that have been at the core of the institution since its inception. Today, LAU serves nearly 9,000 students across its campuses in Beirut, Byblos, and New York.
The gala marks a significant moment for LAU, as it will be the first public event for Dr. Chaouki Abdallah, the university's new president. His leadership comes at a pivotal time, as LAU navigates the challenges of the modern educational landscape. The university's commitment to co-education and inclusivity remains steadfast, ensuring that it continues to be a leader in higher education.
As the world grapples with economic uncertainties and social challenges, the role of educational institutions becomes even more critical. LAU’s Centennial Gala is not just a celebration of its past; it is a rallying cry for the future. The university aims to adapt and thrive, fostering innovation and resilience among its students.
The event will bring together alumni, friends, and supporters of LAU, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. It’s a chance to reflect on the university’s rich history while looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. The gala is a reminder that education is a powerful tool for change, capable of transforming lives and communities.
In a world where challenges abound, LAU stands as a pillar of hope. The university’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service is unwavering. As it celebrates its centennial, LAU is not just looking back; it is forging a path toward a brighter future.
The importance of this gala extends beyond the honors bestowed upon Elissa and Ghazi. It symbolizes the collective effort of the LAU community to support its mission. The funds raised will directly impact students, enabling them to pursue their dreams and contribute to society.
In conclusion, the Lebanese American University’s Centennial Gala is a celebration of legacy and a commitment to the future. It honors those who have paved the way while investing in the next generation. As LAU steps into its second century, it does so with a renewed sense of purpose and a vision for a better tomorrow. The gala is not just an event; it is a movement, a call to action for all who believe in the power of education.
On October 3, the historic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library will host this momentous occasion. The gala will recognize global pop icon Elissa and Synopsys CEO Sassine Ghazi. Both honorees embody the spirit of LAU, showcasing excellence in their fields and a commitment to community service.
Elissa, a three-time World Music Award winner, is more than just a singer. She is a voice for women, advocating for breast cancer awareness and fighting against domestic violence. With over 30 million albums sold and a staggering 4.5 billion views on YouTube, her influence is undeniable. She stands as a symbol of empowerment, inspiring countless individuals to rise above adversity.
Sassine Ghazi, an alumnus of LAU, is a titan in the tech industry. As CEO of Synopsys, he has driven the company to unprecedented heights, achieving record revenue growth. His leadership has positioned Synopsys as a key player in silicon design solutions, with a market cap exceeding $80 billion. Ghazi’s journey from LAU to Silicon Valley is a testament to the university’s ability to nurture talent and foster innovation.
The gala is aptly titled "A Tribute to the Past, A Promise for the Future." It aims to raise funds for student scholarships, research, and patient care. This mission is crucial, especially as many students in Lebanon face dire economic circumstances. The funds generated will pave the way for a brighter future, allowing more students to access quality education at LAU.
The Sarah Huntington Smith Award, named after an American missionary who founded a school for women in Beirut, will also be presented. This award reflects LAU’s commitment to education and empowerment, values that have been at the core of the institution since its inception. Today, LAU serves nearly 9,000 students across its campuses in Beirut, Byblos, and New York.
The gala marks a significant moment for LAU, as it will be the first public event for Dr. Chaouki Abdallah, the university's new president. His leadership comes at a pivotal time, as LAU navigates the challenges of the modern educational landscape. The university's commitment to co-education and inclusivity remains steadfast, ensuring that it continues to be a leader in higher education.
As the world grapples with economic uncertainties and social challenges, the role of educational institutions becomes even more critical. LAU’s Centennial Gala is not just a celebration of its past; it is a rallying cry for the future. The university aims to adapt and thrive, fostering innovation and resilience among its students.
The event will bring together alumni, friends, and supporters of LAU, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. It’s a chance to reflect on the university’s rich history while looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. The gala is a reminder that education is a powerful tool for change, capable of transforming lives and communities.
In a world where challenges abound, LAU stands as a pillar of hope. The university’s commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service is unwavering. As it celebrates its centennial, LAU is not just looking back; it is forging a path toward a brighter future.
The importance of this gala extends beyond the honors bestowed upon Elissa and Ghazi. It symbolizes the collective effort of the LAU community to support its mission. The funds raised will directly impact students, enabling them to pursue their dreams and contribute to society.
In conclusion, the Lebanese American University’s Centennial Gala is a celebration of legacy and a commitment to the future. It honors those who have paved the way while investing in the next generation. As LAU steps into its second century, it does so with a renewed sense of purpose and a vision for a better tomorrow. The gala is not just an event; it is a movement, a call to action for all who believe in the power of education.