The Antonine University (UA) Class of 2023 gathered on June 29, 2023, at the Hadat–Baabda Main Campus to celebrate a momentous occasion: their Commencement Ceremony. For these graduates, the event marked the culmination of tireless work and dedication toward achieving their academic goals. As they stood on the cusp of new beginnings, the Ceremony was filled with an overwhelming sense of joy, pride, and accomplishment, shared equally by the graduates, their families, and the faculty and staff who had supported them throughout their journey. The graduates, equipped with the knowledge and skills honed during their time at UA, are now poised to lead on exciting new journeys and spark positive change in the world.

The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Fr. Michel Jalakh, UA’s Rector; Most Reverend Abbot Maroun Abou Jaoude, UA’s Chancellor; and Dr. Elias Bou Saab, Deputy Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament. MPs Mr. Alain Aoun and Mr. George Okais; Dr. Damianos Kattar, Former Minister and Member of UA’s Board of Trustees; the MP Tony Frangieh represented by Mr. Mohsen Habashi; and Mr. George Aoun, Mayor of Hadat; were among the dignitaries who also attended. The Guest of Honor, Ms. Maya Ibrahimchah, Founder of “Beit el Baraka,” added to the occasion’s grandeur. Distinguished members of the Antonin Maronite Order (OAM), along with nuns, vice rectors, deans, and university council members, were also present to witness the graduates’ triumph. For those who could not attend in person, the event was livestreamed, offering a precious opportunity to share in the momentous occasion with loved ones.

Following the national anthem, Mince Alaeddine, alumna of the Faculty of Sport Sciences (FSS), represented the Class of 2023 with an inspiring speech. Her words emphasized the importance of taking risks and speaking up for what is right, even in the quietest of moments. She also encouraged them to build their own unique paths in life. Her speech touched on the struggles of self-acceptance and the challenges of adapting to online education during the pandemic. Finally, the graduate expressed gratitude to the University’s board, faculty, staff, and families for their support and dedication. Mince concluded by reminding her fellow graduates that they have the power to make a positive impact on the world and to inspire others to dream, learn, and become more.

In a speech addressed to the graduates, Fr. Jalakh highlighted the OAM’s mission, which “was not simply to establish an academic institution, but rather an educational institution that nurtures students holistically.” The institution cherishes the development of students’ humanity, character, and morals, going beyond the mere provision of information. Fr. Jalakh posed a thought-provoking question by asking: “What benefit does one gain if they acquire all knowledge but lose their values, and what purpose do the accomplishments of the world serve if they fail to bring about a positive difference in one’s character, integrity, and virtues?” The graduates were urged to hold onto the knowledge they have acquired from their University, as it transcends geographical boundaries and time, enriching their relationships and shaping their perception of the sweetness and bitterness of life’s challenges. Fr. Jalakh expressed a mix of celebration and sorrow, acknowledging the joy of honoring the graduates’ achievements and embracing the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye. “We always knew that you entered the University with the intention to leave. Yet, a twinge of sadness lingers within us, for we will miss your daily presence within its halls and our interactions with you.”

In turn, the Guest of Honor, Ms. Maya Ibrahimchah, Founder of “Beit el Baraka,” delivered a moving and inspiring speech to the graduates, expertly weaving academic enlightenment with social guidance. As she stood before the graduates, she was filled with an overwhelming sense of pride as she saw the embodiment of Lebanon’s future before her. She shared the remarkable success of her foundation, which has assisted families, covered school fees, and supported teachers through various initiatives, creating numerous job opportunities in a country where hope is lost, and its youth are migrating. Ms. Ibrahimchah reminded everyone that Lebanon was once one of the world’s major exporters, with creativity, innovation, and industry ingrained in the Lebanese people’s DNA. She emphasized that the future of Lebanon lies in national industry, and she urged the graduates to enter this field, where the opportunities are endless. Her advice to the graduates was to “seize opportunities, maintain a disciplined mindset, and stay away from pride which can hinder both individuals and success.” She encouraged them to transform challenges into opportunities, focus on the positive aspects, harness the power of technology, and banish any fears associated with it.

Prior to the certificate distribution ceremony, the Great Honor Award was awarded to the Valedictorian, Mr. Recardo Chalhoub, from the Faculty of Information and Communication (FIC), a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding achievements. As the graduates walked across the stage in their full graduation regalia, armed with the weapon of invincible hope, they were met with thunderous applause and cheers from their loved ones. Parents, overjoyed to see their children’s dreams come to fruition, captured every moment on camera, tears of happiness streaming down their faces.

Before throwing their caps in the air, the graduates reflected on the many bridges they had crossed, the hearty smiles and laughter they had shared, the cherished memories, and the unwavering support of their families, friends, and instructors who provided well-founded words of advice. The Ceremony left UA graduates with a newfound sense of purpose and drive, ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead and become the leaders of tomorrow, the driving force behind Lebanon’s success. The future is bright for these graduates, and they are now equipped with the skills, knowledge, and determination to make a positive impact on the world.