American University of Beirut Students Receive Scholarship Assistance from U.S. Government

October 26, 2009

U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michele J. Sison with AUB President Dorman and AUB students who have received U.S.-funded scholarships. (Photo by Hasan Nisr, AUB Photography)

On October 26, 2009 U.S. Ambassador Michele J. Sison presented a check for $457,475 to American University of Beirut (AUB) President Dr. Peter Dorman for student scholarships. The United States has provided over $2.3 million in scholarship support to AUB this year, helping approximately 740 qualified students with demonstrable financial need, from all over Lebanon, to pursue their higher education at one of the top universities in the Middle East.  Without this assistance, these students would not have been able to study at AUB.

Speaking at AUB's West Hall, Ambassador Sison met with Lebanese AUB students who have received scholarships funded by the United States. They told her about their studies and career objectives, and how the U.S.-funded scholarship program enabled them to achieve their goals.  At the event, Ambassador Sison applauded the role American educational institutions in Lebanon have played in developing the potential of Lebanese youth:  “These scholarships have a real, tangible effect on the lives of the young Lebanese citizens that receive them….I look forward in the coming years to continuing to develop the educational opportunities for Lebanese young people….We are proud to work on behalf of the American people to help the Lebanese people realize their dream of a peaceful and prosperous, sovereign and secure country.”

Since 1998 the U.S. government has supported AUB and other American educational institutions in Lebanon with grants for scholarships and infrastructure upgrades totaling over $78.8 million.  The United States' support for these institutions reflects the inherent value the U.S. government places in the American education system and teaching methods.