On Monday, January 20, 2025, the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) hosted the signing ceremony for the AXA MIDDLE EAST Endowment Scholarship Fund at the Rectorate. The agreement was signed between USJ, represented by its Rector, Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, and AXA MIDDLE EAST, represented by CEO Mr. Roger Nasnas and Deputy CEO Mr. Joseph Nasnas. The ceremony was attended by Mrs. Cynthia-Maria Ghobril Andrea, Director of Fondation USJ; Fr. François Boëdec, SJ, Rector’s Delegate for Human Resources; Fr. Salah Abou Jaoudeh, SJ, Dean of the Faculty of Religious Studies and First Vice-Rector of the Central Organization; Prof. Fadi Geara, Vice-Rector for Administration; Prof. Carla Eddé, Vice-Rector for International Relations; Mr. Walid Mezher, Chief Financial Officer; Mr. Jean-François Verne, Dean of the Faculty of Economics; Prof. Irma Majdalani, Director of the Higher Institute of Insurance Science (ISSA); Ms. Lynn Farah Bou Samra, Social Funds Manager; Mr. Naji Boulos, Marketing and Communications Consultant; and members of AXA’s executive committee and Fondation USJ.
The Endowment Scholarship Fund will support students from the Faculty of Economics, USJ Business School, and the Higher Institute of Insurance Science, providing opportunities for academic growth and professional development.
Ms. Ghobril Andrea paid tribute to the late Elie Nasnas, former CEO of AXA and brother of Mr. Roger Nasnas, whose absence was deeply felt:
"Elie’s remarkable contributions shaped not only AXA Middle East but also our University. An alumnus of 1978, he embodied values of excellence and education that continue to inspire us. His legacy lives on in this partnership."
She highlighted the long-standing collaboration between USJ and AXA: “Since the first AXA Endowment Scholarship Fund in 2020, this renewed agreement strengthens the bond between our institutions. AXA’s commitment goes beyond business, it demonstrates a sincere dedication to supporting students and investing in Lebanon’s future.”
Prof. Daccache welcomed the AXA team warmly, reflecting on Mr. Roger Nasnas’ enduring impact: “Your education at USJ shaped your path and now inspires a new generation of students. Your gesture today reinforces the importance of investing in young Lebanese, contributing to the country’s prosperity and renewal.” He emphasized the Fund’s role in enabling students—55% of whom currently require support—to pursue their academic ambitions and set an example for other donors.
Mr. Roger Nasnas shared his personal journey and the influence of Jesuit education: “Studying economics at USJ in 1972 instilled values of diligence, perseverance, and ‘small steps,’ which guide both my professional work and philanthropic commitments. This Fund aligns with AXA’s values and allows us to invest in the next generation of leaders.”
He also paid tribute to his family, noting the continuity of values through his son and reaffirming USJ’s central role in shaping Lebanon’s future: “Much remains to be done, and it may take generations to build the Lebanon we aspire to. Education is where it begins, and USJ has been a pioneer for 150 years.”
The signing of the “AXA MIDDLE EAST” Endowment Scholarship Fund marks a significant step in supporting academic excellence and fostering leadership among USJ students, reinforcing a shared commitment to education, opportunity, and the future of Lebanon.