On April 14, 2025, NDU honored the legacy of its dear friend, the exceptional poet and enduring cultural icon Said Akl, by paying tribute to his former assistant, Marie-Rose Amidi. The event, titled “الوفاء إن حكى: سعيد عقل في قلب، وجدان، وعقل,” was organized by the NDU Libraries and attended by prominent figures in the media, arts and political scenes.
Issam Fares Conference Hall welcomed H.E. Elie Ferzli; Fadi Masri, Head of the Beirut Bar Association; Commander of the Lebanese Army Rodolphe Haikal represented by Brigadier General Bassam Sassine; Director General of the Internal Security Forces Major General Raed Abdallah represented by Brigadier General Charbel Frem; Sheikh Sami Gemayel, Head of the Kataeb Party represented by Michel Hokayem, Director of Kesrouan region; Michel Matta, President of the Maronite General Council; Christine Zaatar, Director General of the Lebanese Parliament; World President of the Lebanese Cultural University Roger Hani represented by Christian Nasr; Father Boutros Azar representing his Beatitude Superior General of the Antonine Order Joseph Korm; as well as loyal artists and journalists such as Yazbeck Wehbe, Nizar Francis, Rifaat Tarabay, Rudy Rahme, Georges Khabbaz and Chady Maroun. NDU President Father Bechara Khoury greeted all guests along with the University’s Vice Presidents and other senior University staff.
"We gather today in honor of Said Akl and the companion who walked beside him through the years, Marie-Rose Amidi," remarked Majed Bou Hadir, Director of the Office of Public Affairs and Protocol at NDU. "Not because NDU is the only university safeguarding his cultural legacy and collections, but because of its unwavering loyalty and commitment to its educational mission—one that enlightens young generations with the truth that Lebanon is as timeless as Said Akl himself."
In his opening address, Fr. Khoury spoke directly to the late Said Akl: "Dear professor and lover of Lebanon, dear Said, rise up. The country needs you. We need you. Our culture, our language, and our identity need you." He went on to announce that NDU is currently working on a project that ensures a balance between education and culture—an initiative that takes learning a step further, inspired by Lebanon’s rich national heritage, and in particular, the enduring legacy of Said Akl."
Professional singer Carla Ramia then enchanted the audience with Aatina Rabbi, a religious chant written by Said Akl accompanied on the piano by Dolcy Lawoun, Chairperson of the Department of Music at NDU. Representing his sister Marie-Rose Amidi who could not attend due to health reasons, Garabet Amidi was then invited to the stage to express his sister’s sincere gratitude and accept on her behalf a Papal Blessing as a token of appreciation.
The audience then was then transported decades into the past through a moving documentary about the poet, including testimonies from Marie-Rose Amidi and some of the most powerful words of Akl himself in different contexts, leading to the end of his life and the legacy he leaves behind, which is delicately treasured at NDU. Adding to the emotional atmosphere, deaf performer Pierre Geagea danced on a Said Akl poem narrated by poet Nizar Francis along with the perfect melodies. Finally, the NDU choir led by Father Khalil Rahme sang the NDU anthem also beautifully written by Said Akl, wholeheartedly followed by the whole audience.
This commemorative event served as a powerful reminder of the timeless impact of Said Akl’s poetry, philosophy and thoughts, echoing through song, dance, and heartfelt reflection. Through this tribute, NDU continues its mission of celebrating Lebanese cultural giants and inspiring future generations.