The Final Visit of Dr. Colette and Dr. Conor

Dr. Colette Dowling and Monsignor Dr. Conor Ward, who completed their work with us in guiding Bethlehem University's Strategic Planning Process during the past six years, have volunteered to return in order to archive the huge volume of written records of the work of the Bethlehem University faculty and staff in the Strategic Planning Process.

For many years Dr. Conor and Dr. Colette have visited Bethlehem University at least twice yearly for extended periods of time, learning to cope with curfews, closures and adjustments of schedule as they listened to, identified with and resonated with their Palestinian colleagues, supporting us both personally and professionally. They have formed deep personal friendships with many of our Palestinian staff members and have won the confidence of the entire University community by working with us in a collegial manner.

In October 2003 the University awarded Dr. Conor and Dr. Colette the Bethlehem University Special Service Award, because of the work performed on strategic planning under their leadership. Bethlehem University moves into the future with renewed confidence and resolve. We shall always be indebted to them for this in valuable contribution to the development of the University.