On May 10, 2025, Byblos resonated with intellect in every heartfelt word as it honored Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, Rector of the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ), Head of the Universities Association of Lebanon, and President of the Regional Conference of University Presidents in the Middle East. This cultural evening marked USJ’s 150^th anniversary and celebrated Prof. Daccache’s visionary leadership.

Dr. Rihab El-Helou of the Literary Committee of The Cultural Council of Byblos set the tone, welcoming guests and tracing Prof. Daccache’s profound influence on Lebanon’s academic and cultural landscape. Council President Toufic Sfeir followed with a tribute, and Bishop Michel Aoun recalled the enduring bond between USJ and the Ghazir Seminary. Personal reflections from MP Ziad Hawat, Ambassador Khalil Karam, and Prof. Lara Karam Boustani, who addressed the crowd in French, led into a heartfelt closing from MP Neemat Frem.

Former President Michel Sleiman joined Toufic Sfeir in presenting Prof. Daccache with a commemorative shield, while certificates of appreciation acknowledged the evening’s speakers and organizers. In his response, Prof. Daccache spoke of Byblos, the “city where letters take root,” as the perfect setting for reconnecting with heritage, faith, and collective aspirations. He extended gratitude to the Cultural Council, USJ, his fellow honorees, and his family from Ftouh Keserwan, Hsoun, and Bouar.

Also in attendance were Lebanon’s leading figures across religion, politics, academia, and media: former MP Neematallah Abi Nasr; Charbel Abi Akl of the Martyrs, Prisoners, and Wounded Commission of the Lebanese Forces Party; Mr. Jean Hawat; Ambassador Khalil Karam, President of the Maronite League; Michel Matta, Esq. President of the Maronite General Council; and university presidents Shaouki Abdallah (LAU), Rony Abi Nakhle (LCU), and Chafic Mokbel (AUT); Sister Dr. Marana Saad, President of the Philokalia Institute; Ms. Noha Sadka, President of YWCA Lebanon, and Ms. Claudine Daccache, President of Al Daccache Association in Aaqibe and its surroundings.

A distinguished USJ delegation underscored the University’s close ties to Byblos: Vice President Fr. François Boëdec; Vice-Rector for Research Prof. Richard Maroun; University Chaplain Fr. Jad Chibli; and Professors Pascal Monin and Irma Majdalani. Deans, faculty, writers, educators, journalists, clergy, and local officials together fostered an atmosphere of sincere gratitude and cultural pride.

The evening closed with toasts and applause, honoring a man whose devotion to faith, intellect, and education inspires us all.

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