Fadlo Khuri, the sixteenth president of the American University of Beirut (AUB) in Lebanon and Cyprus, has been elected as a new fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
Khuri was elected in the category of Educational and Academic Leadership, a recognition of his contributions to the advancement of education and his steadfast leadership in the academic sphere, particularly during a decade marked by overlapping crises. This places him among a select group of global leaders.
The American Academy of Arts and Sciences, an honorary society and an independent research centre, convenes exceptional global leaders renowned for their excellence across disciplines, professions, and perspectives. Its members are recognised for impacting lives and societies in various fields of human endeavour.
Founded in 1780 by figures including John Adams, James Bowdoin, and John Hancock, the Academy’s first elected class included US Founding Father Benjamin Franklin and first US President George Washington.
In response to the news, Khuri remarked, “I am particularly proud to have been nominated by Board Chair Emeritus Philip S. Khoury for work we have all done together over the last decade at AUB.” He added, “Being selected among a constellation of global leaders and pioneers is truly humbling. And my mother will no doubt be thrilled that I was elected in the same class as Gloria Steinem, one of her heroes and one of feminism’s greatest champions.”
Abdo G. Kadifa, Chairperson of the American University of Beirut (AUB) Board of Trustees, commented on the announcement, stating, “Since assuming office in 2015, Dr. Fadlo R. Khuri has been a transformative leader. Under his guidance, AUB has navigated significant challenges, including economic crises, the Beirut explosion on August 4, 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic, while achieving remarkable milestones such as the reintroduction of academic tenure, the establishment of AUB Online, and the launch of AUB Mediterraneo, the university’s first twin campus outside Lebanon. Dr. Khuri’s leadership has also been instrumental in enhancing AUB’s global reputation, reflected in its dramatic rise in international rankings.”
He concluded, “Dr. Khuri’s election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences is a testament to his unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovative leadership, and the betterment of society through education and research.”
American Academy of Arts and Sciences President Laurie L. Patton commented on the academy’s newest class: “These new members’ accomplishments speak volumes about the human capacity for discovery, creativity, leadership, and persistence. They are a stellar testament to the power of knowledge to broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding.” She added, “We invite every new member to celebrate their achievement and join the Academy in our work to promote the common good.”
