American University of Beirut
A Legacy of Learning and Leadership, fostering intellectual curiosity and global engagement since 1866.
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A Storied History
Founding and Early Years
Established on April 24, 1863, by a charter from the State of New York, the Syrian Protestant College (SPC) opened its doors in Beirut on December 3, 1866, with an initial class of 16 students. Dr. Daniel Bliss served as its first president. Initially utilizing Arabic as the language of instruction, the college transitioned to English in 1887. It was officially renamed the American University of Beirut (AUB) in 1920, reflecting its growing stature and broader mission.[9]
Global Impact and Alumni
AUB's influence extends far beyond Lebanon. Notably, 20 AUB alumni were delegates at the 1945 United Nations Charter signing, more than from any other university globally. Its graduates are leaders in diverse fields worldwide, contributing significantly to governance, academia, business, and humanitarian efforts.
Resilience Through Adversity
The university demonstrated remarkable resilience during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990). Despite significant challenges, including the kidnapping of several staff members and the tragic murder of President Malcolm H. Kerr in 1984, AUB maintained academic continuity through agreements with international institutions.
Campus and Reach
Beirut Campus
The main campus in Ras Beirut spans 61 acres, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It comprises 64 buildings, including seven dormitories, extensive libraries, museums, and the renowned American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC).
Research and Extension
Beyond the urban campus, AUB maintains a 247-acre research farm and educational complex in the Beqaa Valley, managed by the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences. In 2024, AUB expanded its global footprint by inaugurating AUB Mediterraneo in Paphos, Cyprus, its first overseas campus.
Academic Faculties
Agricultural and Food Sciences
The Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences (FAFS) focuses on sustainable agriculture, food security, and public health.
Arts and Sciences
The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) offers a broad spectrum of disciplines in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Health Sciences
The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) is dedicated to advancing public health through education, research, and community engagement.
Medicine
The Faculty of Medicine (FM) is renowned for its clinical practice, medical education, and research, integrated with the AUB Medical Center.
Nursing
The Rafic Hariri School of Nursing (HSON) is recognized internationally for its high standards in nursing education and practice.
AUB Medical Center (AUBMC)
Comprehensive Care and Training
AUBMC is a leading tertiary/quaternary care center, accredited by the Joint Commission International. It operates a 420-bed hospital and provides extensive medical training, serving as a vital healthcare resource for the region, including support for Syrian refugees.
International Accolades
The Rafic Hariri School of Nursing at AUBMC was the first outside the US to join the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). AUBMC itself received Magnet Recognition, a prestigious award for nursing excellence, making it the first in the Middle East to achieve this distinction.
Cultural and Scientific Collections
Archaeological Museum
The third oldest museum in the Near East, AUB's Archaeological Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including pottery, tools, sculptures, and coins, spanning millennia of regional history.
Student Voice: Outlook Newspaper
Distinguished Alumni
Notable Figures
AUB boasts a vibrant alumni network of over 64,000 individuals globally. Notable alumni include Angela Jurdak Khoury, Lebanon's first female diplomat, and numerous leaders in arts, sciences, and public service.
Shaping the World
Alumni achievements span diverse fields: Reem Acra (Fashion Design), Zaha Hadid (Architecture, Mathematics), Rula Ghani (Former First Lady of Afghanistan), Ghada El Samman (Writer), Karimeh Abbud (Pioneering Photographer), and Amal Mudallali (Lebanon's UN Ambassador), among many others.
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References
References
- Dodge, Bayard (1958) The American University of Beirut รขยย A brief history. Khayat's Beirut. p. 10
- Middle East International No 413, 22 November 1991, Publishers Lord Mayhew, Dennis Walters MP; Michael Jansen p. 9
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Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional academic consultation or verification. Always refer to official university resources for the most current and accurate information.
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