The Antonine University (UA) Class of 2024 gathered on June 22, at the Hadat–Baabda Main Campus to celebrate their Commencement Ceremony. This event marked the culmination of their relentless effort and dedication to achieving academic success. Standing at the threshold of new beginnings, the Ceremony overflowed with profound joy, pride, and accomplishment, shared equally among the graduates, their families, and the supportive faculty and staff.
The Ceremony was honored by the presence of Fr. Michel Saghbiny, UA’s Rector; Most Reverend Abbot Joseph Bou Raad, UA’s Chancellor; Dr. Elias Bou Saab, Deputy Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament; and the Guest of Honor Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, Founder and Chairman of Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Global (TAG). Distinguished members of the Antonine Maronite Order (OAM), along with nuns, vice rectors, deans, and university council members, were also present to witness the graduates’ triumph.
Following the national anthem, Hassan Chami, alumnus of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, delivered an inspiring speech on behalf of the Class of 2024. He urged his peers to find strength, wisdom, and courage through overcoming difficulties and to embrace challenges, viewing obstacles as blessings in disguise. He then expressed gratitude to the University’s leadership, faculty, staff, and families for their support and dedication.
Fr. Saghbiny addressed the graduates, emphasizing that their collective experiences, successes, and setbacks alike, shape their personal histories. He encouraged them to turn failures into stepping stones for success and transform obstacles into pathways for progress and victory. His words resonated deeply as he urged them to sow generosity, persevere in their decisions, and seek role models who embody true happiness and goodness.
In his speech to the students, Guest of Honor Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh shared a valuable lesson from his post-graduation journey; in school and university, we receive lessons and take exams, but in life, we face challenges first and learn from them afterward. He reminded the graduates, “You are at the beginning of your education journey because learning never ends. We learn something new every day from everything around us, and there is nothing better than being a lifelong student.”
In a surprising announcement, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh revealed plans to inaugurate Lebanon’s first technology factory, a project aimed at bolstering the nation’s technological landscape. He generously pledged scholarships to UA graduates, underscoring his commitment to fostering future leaders.
The Ceremony also featured a special artistic interlude. Edward Nammour, alumnus of the Faculty of Information and Communication (FIC), presented a performance with ZIRKA Dance School. This choreography, designed by Anthony Bou Chahine, alumnus of the Faculty of Public Health (FPH), captivated the audience with its energy and creativity.
As the Ceremony drew to a close, the graduates proudly received their diplomas amid thunderous applause and cheers from their loved ones. Laughter, smiles, and tears of joy filled the air, encapsulating the significance of this milestone moment.
With their diplomas in hand and hearts full of dreams, the graduates stood ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives. The support and encouragement from their families and friends were palpable, reminding them that they are not alone on their journey. As they tossed their caps into the air, a sense of accomplishment and optimism spread among the graduates, signaling the beginning of their bright futures.