On April 25, 2025, the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics at Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) proudly launched the Journal of Sustainable Economies in collaboration with Northeastern University, in a symposium titled Connect360: Pioneering Sustainable Economies featuring interventions by leading experts.
Dr. Viviane Naimy, Dean of the FBAE, inaugurated the event with a warm word: “The Journal of Sustainable Economies started as a dream; it constituted a quiet act of resilience and defiance during one of the most difficult chapters in our nation’s history”, praising the hard work of the FBAE team, highlighting the importance of research at NDU, and thanking Northeastern University “for their trust in our vision”. Representing NDU President Father Bechara Khoury, Dr. Michel El Hayek, Vice President for Academic Affairs then expressed his honor to be standing among distinguished professors, sharing that the launch of this journal is one step forward towards excellence. Finally, Professor Derviş Kirikkaleli, Associate Editor at the Journal of Sustainable Economies, elaborated on the importance of this journal in the region, stressing that sustainable economies primarily aim at creating jobs.
The first discussion panel explored the role of scholarly journals in advancing sustainable development, framed around two key themes:
Innovative Research Trends in Sustainable Economies
The Influence of Academic Research on Policy and Global Change
Moderated by Professor Derviş Kirikkaleli and Dr. Viviane Naimy, the panel featured an engaging lineup of NDU scholars and international experts. From NDU, panelists included Dr. Ghazi Asmar (Assistant Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies), Dr. Johnny Chaanine, Dr. Dorine Matar, Dr. Talie Kaasamany, Dr. Sandra Khalil, Dr. Georges Badr, and Dr. Ribal Rizk. Representing the World Bank were sustainable development experts Ms. Diana El Kaissi and Ms. Yousra Assaker.
The NDU faculty highlighted how academic research is not only a driver of innovation but also a tool for designing inclusive and adaptive economic systems. They shared insights on translating academic knowledge into practical solutions that address climate, financial, and social challenges—positioning universities as architects of change. Meanwhile, the World Bank experts stressed the importance of data transparency and evidence-based policymaking, emphasizing the synergy between institutional research and global development goals.
Students with outstanding GPAs were also recognized during this event by joining the prestigious Beta Gamma Sigma, the International Business Honor society, in presence of their proud families. BGS also recognized NDU for qualifying as a Highest Honors Chapter, thanks to the dedication and hard work of Dr. Yara Harb, advisor of the BGS Chapter and Maya Rashed, Senior Officer, who were both strongly saluted by Dr. Naimy.
The unveiling of the journal’s first issue followed with Dr. Ahmad Aljarah through a short presentation of the journal’s website, submission process, a highlight of selected articles and acknowledgement of contributors. This session triggered many questions from the audience about the role of AI in publishing and preventing plagiarism.
Part two of the symposium consisted of the following activities:
- A research workshop under the theme Publishing for Impact: Best Practices for Authors and Reviewers led by Professor Kirikkaleli, who shared tips on impactful manuscripts, peer review navigation, and open-access benefits.
- A special feature from Northeastern University on The Global Role of Academic Partnerships in Addressing Sustainable Development Challenges, with guest speakers Professor Denis J. Sullivan, Director, PhD Program in Political Science; and Professor Maria Ivanova, Director of the School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs.
Moderated by Lord Alex Carlile, CBE, King’s Council, Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, the talk focused on Northeastern’s collaboration on the journal and its importance for global research. “The work we are witnessing here today reminds me of projects in the UK,” reveals Lord Carlile, “such as the Eden Project, which turned an exhausted mine into a flourishing environmental haven. It shows that when commitment exists, transformation is possible.” From his end, Professor Sullivan spoke of Lebanon’s resilience which mirrors their belief in civic sustainability. According to Professor Ivanova, students must be involved in developing hypotheses and testing solutions, being the future researchers and problem-solvers.
The symposium concluded with a research gallery walk and networking opportunities, building on all the rich interactions that took place throughout the day. The launch of the Journal of Sustainable Economies in collaboration with Northeastern University is one of many initiatives undertaken by the FBAE and NDU to develop research in business and other fields, maintaining excellent academic levels that are reflected in the University’s institutional and programmatic accreditations.