On Friday, May 9, 2025, Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) held its much-anticipated annual Founders’ Day celebration, a tradition that honors the University’s legacy of challenges met with steadfast accomplishment. Under the theme Turath—meaning “heritage”—student clubs transformed the main campus into a vibrant tribute to Lebanese identity, each club reflecting the nation's rich cultural tapestry in its own unique style. The evening concluded in unity and joy with a spirited Dabkeh, affirming the deep sense of community that defines NDU.
The event was inaugurated by Majed Bou Hadir, Director of the Office of Public Affairs and Protocol at NDU, who warmly welcomed attendees and extended his thanks to Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism, Dr. Laura El Khazen Lahoud, for her unwavering support, as well as to her representative and consultant, Ghassan Haddad.
Introducing NDU President Fr. Bechara Khoury, Bou Hadir echoed the President’s message from the noon Mass: “Anyone who belongs to NDU belongs to a family united by a mission without limits.”
Fr. Khoury compared the University to a gracious lady receiving heartfelt gifts on her birthday—foremost among them, the students’ evident commitment. “You are the reason we lead, and the reason we stay beside you,” he affirmed. He acknowledged the event’s esteemed guests, including Haddad, renowned musician and NDU partner Oussama El Rahbani, and NDU alumna and media personality Jessica Azar, whose continued support of the American Friends of NDU was warmly recognized.
As the speeches uplifted the audience, candles illuminated the stage, symbolizing the light of NDU’s mission. Surrounded by Vice Presidents and Deans, Fr. Khoury led the ceremonial cake-cutting, marking another milestone in the University’s proud history.
Student emcees Roudy Khalil and Maria Moussa then took the stage to recognize standout student achievements, awarding trophies of appreciation that celebrated both academic and extracurricular excellence.
The evening transitioned to a rich cultural program honoring the 100th anniversary of the legendary Mansour Rahbani. Student Rebecca Abou Assi, a finalist in NDU’s Classical Arabic Recitation Competition, delivered a poignant rendition of one of his poems, accompanied by the NDU Music Club performing some of his most iconic melodies.
Oussama El Rahbani, taking the stage, addressed the students directly: “You are our future, our oil and gas. Develop your own potential, regardless of political distractions.” He extended heartfelt thanks to Dr. Karen BouJaoude, Dean of the Ramez G. Chagoury Faculty of Architecture, Arts, and Design, and to Dolcy Lawoun, Chairperson of the Department of Music, for their unwavering dedication to nurturing Lebanon’s next generation of artists.
Highlighting NDU’s commitment to creativity and innovation, the evening continued with a fashion show by second-year Fashion Design students, whose imaginative work captivated family, faculty, and peers. Celebrated designer Jeanne Feghali was honored on stage and praised the students’ talent, reflecting on how their passion rekindled memories of her own early dreams.
The celebration was launched earlier in the day with a student parade waving Lebanese flags—a proud and festive display of national spirit. Live performances followed from DJ Alain Majdalani, Jemli band, Aswar band, and Bamboo Syndrome. Later in the evening, performers Carlos Hikri, Mario Hadchiti, and Clara Rihani energized the crowd with a blend of new hits and timeless Lebanese classics that had the audience dancing and singing along.
A lively tombola draw offered guests valuable prizes before the night came to a close with a final performance by the Magnolia band.
True to tradition, NDU’s Founders’ Day 2025 was more than a celebration of the past. It was a reaffirmation of the University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, cultural heritage, and community values, always with a forward-looking vision of a brighter future shaped by today’s dedicated students and leaders.