On May 15, the Ramez. G. Chagoury Faculty of Architecture, Arts and Design (FAAD) hosted its annual End-of-Year Exhibition titled "A Transitional Path", unveiling the creative artworks and standout designs of its talented students.
The anticipated event brought together NDU President Father Bechara Khoury; Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Michel El Hayek; Vice President for University Advancement, Dr. Antoine Farhat; FAAD Dean, Dr. Karen BouJaoude, in addition to Architect Marwan Zgheib, who served as guest speaker. The event was also moderated by Senior Lecturer Chadi Bteich, and it included various student presentations, engaging interventions, the launch of the student exhibition at the FAAD, as well as a captivating fashion show featuring the designs of senior students.
At the start of the event, Bteich took the floor, delivering an inspiring address. “EYE’25,” he said, “is about more than just celebrating final projects. It’s a platform that connects our students with industry leaders, boosting their confidence and paving the way for future success.” He also praised the exhibition’s logo and concept, which were entirely crafted and imagined by the graphic design students, serving as proof of their immense creativity.
Concluding his address, Bteich congratulated NDU faculty and staff on the recent signing of a partnership with renowned musician Oussama Rahbani. This partnership would facilitate the launch of an exciting “Music Production and Industrial Practices” program this fall. Bteich also revealed a groundbreaking collaboration with distinguished designer Georges Chakra, noting that it would help fuse academic creativity with fashion excellence. Lastly, he commended the Fashion Design students for their imaginative pieces that brilliantly displayed their skill and professionalism.
As for Dr. BouJaoude, she warmly welcomed attendees to the exhibition, describing it as a defining moment in the journey of art and design students. She painted a vivid picture of the creative process: a place where dreams are born, sometimes unravel just before the deadline, yet miraculously come back to life. Calling the exhibition a watershed and “transitional” moment bridging past efforts and future possibilities, she praised the students’ projects for reflecting their distinct visions and creativity. Highlighting excellence across departments, from architecture to music, she highlighted that true creativity embraces mistakes, quoting Scott Adams: “Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Design is knowing which of those mistakes to keep.”
In turn, NDU President Fr. Khoury delivered a heartfelt speech on the philosophy of learning and the core mission of the University. Reflecting on the nature of learning and discovery, he shared a powerful metaphor: “For every mountain we climb, another mountain appears.” This image beautifully captures the relentless and ever-evolving quest for knowledge, where each achievement is not an endpoint, but a gateway to fresh challenges and deeper insights.
With passion and conviction, he called on students and faculty alike to maintain a forward-looking mindset, reminding them that the horizon is limitless when ambition fuels their drive, vision sharpens their focus, and a deep passion for learning grounds their efforts. He painted an inspiring vision of the new Lebanon: one built not on fleeting hopes but on the strength and resilience of its youth. He affirmed that the country’s future rests in the hands of its students, whose deep sense of belonging and commitment to their homeland empower them to be catalysts for meaningful, positive change in their communities and beyond.
Guest of honor, architect Marwan Zgheib, then delivered a compelling speech, beginning with the thought-provoking line: “Not every building needs to be built to have meaning.” He explored the idea that unbuilt projects can be just as influential as constructed ones, shaping architectural discourse and inspiring future generations through the power of ideas alone.
Zgheib later presented a selection of his conceptual works that explore the theme of “the sacred and nature,” describing them as complete, contemplative visions that transcend physical form. These projects, he noted, serve as platforms for cultural expression and existential reflection, inviting viewers to see architecture as a deeper conversation between space, spirit, and story. He also shared some of his past work experience with senior students, providing them with the inspiration and guidance needed to navigate this transitional path in their respective lives. Following his address, Zgheib was presented with a token of appreciation from NDU in recognition of his presence and insightful contribution. Graphic design student Chloe Al Hage, winner of the EYE’25 Branding Competition, was also honored for her dedication and creativity.
Following a fashion show presented by senior Fashion Design students, attendees were ushered into the FAAD building, where students’ designs were put on display. The exhibition concluded on a high note, highlighting the exceptional talent and dedication of the FAAD’s graduating students.