The American University of Beirut awarded Hadham Olayan the University Medal, its highest honor, in recognition of her career of leadership, generosity and service.
The Board of Trustees held the honoring ceremony at the University Club in New York City, with trustees, guests, friends of the university and members of her family in attendance.
Board of Trustees Chairman Abdo George Kadifa praised her role in supporting the university and shaping its future.
He also commended her leadership, generosity and continuous commitment to the university’s educational and humanitarian mission.
From student to trustee
Hadham Olayan’s relationship with the university began as a student, then continued through the alumni community.
In 1993, she joined the Board of Trustees, coinciding with the launch of reconstruction efforts following the Lebanese war.
Over more than two decades, she served as both vice chair and co-chair of the board, and chaired the Trustees Affairs Committee.
She also recruited new members and helped secure major donations. In addition, she contributed to the development of the Olayan School of Business, which bears her father’s name.
An honor with family meaning
During the evening, attendees recalled the story of her graduation in 1975, when the war prevented the holding of a graduation ceremony.
Nearly three decades later, she experienced the joy of celebration during the Olayan School of Business’s graduation ceremony.
AUB President Dr. Fadlo Khuri read the citation before Kadifa presented her with the medal. In turn, Olayan expressed her pride in receiving an honor previously granted to her father 26 years ago, reaffirming her family’s belief in the university’s mission and its values of free inquiry, tolerance, excellence and service.
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