Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth (USJ - Saint Joseph University of Beirut) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor François Boëdec SJ as Rector of Saint Joseph University of Beirut, effective January 5, 2026.
A member of the Society of Jesus, a lawyer by training and holding a PhD in political science from University Paris I Panthéon-Sorbonne, Prof. François Boëdec SJ has long been an attentive observer of the modern democratic debate issues as well as the evolution of international relations and the Middle East. He is especially recognized for his work on the political challenges related to the control of water resources in the Middle East. His career has been distinguished by high-level positions within the Jesuit higher education and the Society of Jesus. He has served as Rector of Facultés Loyola Paris, Provincial Superior of the Province of the Francophone Western Europe, member of the USJ Board of Trustees, and, since 2024, he has held the position of USJ Vice-Rector and Delegate of the Rector for Human Resources.
Prof. François Boëdec SJ also maintains a longstanding, deep, and constant connection with Lebanon and USJ. Present in Lebanon since the 1990s, he has engaged in teaching, research, and pastoral support activities. A long-time visiting professor at USJ and president of the USJ Administrative Bureau Association in Paris (since 1998), he is intimately familiar with the University’s history, mission, and challenges.
We extend to Prof. François Boëdec SJ our most sincere wishes for success in this important mission serving Saint Joseph University of Beirut.