Recognition of Lewis University's Significant Contribution
To Bethlehem University's Faculty Development

On Friday 11 March, the Bethlehem University community gathered in the University's Chapel of the Divine Child to honor Brother James Gaffney, FSC, President of Lewis University, and to grant him the De La Salle Award in recognition of his distinguished contribution to education and outstanding support of the professional development of Bethlehem University's faculty. Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Delegate and Chancellor of Bethlehem University, and members of the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, administration and student body were in attendance.

H.E. Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Delegate and Chancellor of Bethlehem University (center) with Brother James (left) and Brother Vincent (right).

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The De La Salle Award is presented by Bethlehem University to a person who is distinguished in education or to a person who has contributed in an outstanding way to the good of Bethlehem University. Brother James is a person who embodies both of these award criteria.

Brother James has been the President of Lewis University since 1988. His inspirational leadership of Lewis University over these 17 years is evidenced in Lewis being named one of the "Best Colleges" by U.S. News and World Report and receiving recognition from The Princeton Review. Lewis University is a dynamic, mid-sized University of more than 4,800 undergraduate and graduate students, offering small interactive classes, high quality academic programs, service opportunities and a wonderfully-diverse community. The values-centered curriculum at Lewis University combines a liberal arts foundation blended with relevant professional education, in a manner that is similar to the values-centered curriculum at Bethlehem University.

From the perspective of Bethlehem University, one of the greatest contributions of Brother James' educational leadership at Lewis University is the annual provision of a scholarship to a Bethlehem University graduate for a Masters Degree at Lewis University. Since this project began in 1985, Lewis University has been the largest single source for the preparation of new faculty members for Bethlehem University. Twelve Bethlehem University graduates have attended Lewis and have received degrees that prepared them to teach Palestinian youth, one additional person in currently studying in Lewis University, and three others had received partial scholarships there. In recent years, when other organizations that had sponsored graduate study for Palestinians shifted their priorities, Lewis University continued to provide well prepared young scholars for the Bethlehem University faculty. This support has been vital to Bethlehem University and is deeply appreciated.

Brother Peter Iorlano, Coordinator of Institutional Values, opened the Ceremony with a prayer, and he expressed hope that our faith will be strengthened with the peace that God gives us. Brother Peter added that we come together today with great joy to honor Brother James Gaffney for his great accomplishments.

The Master of Ceremonies, Prof. Manuel Hassassian, Executive Vice President, introduced Brother Malham, President-Vice Chancellor. Brother Vincent said that this is a day of great joy because we have waited for a long time to honor Brother James. He added that despite the busy schedule of Brother James, he came to Bethlehem to be with us. Brother Vincent said that in the history of academic institutions, there are people who play strategic roles. Brother James is such a person because of his unique association with Bethlehem University, the scholarships he has offered to many young Palestinians, and his extraordinary personal interest for over 20 year in the growth and development of Bethlehem University.

Mr. Fadi Kattan, Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration and representatives of Lewis University graduates, expressed deep appreciation to Brother James and Lewis University. Fadi Kattan said: “ I thank you Brother James for giving us scholarships.” He added: “ Lewis University has been a cornerstone in our lives and we are proud to be part of its community.”

Brother Neil Kieffe, Director of Instructional Technology, read the Citation. H.E. Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Delegate and Chancellor of Bethlehem University, and Brother Vincent Malham, President-Vice Chancellor, gave the De La Salle Award to Brother James Gaffney.

Brother James Gaffney, President, Lewis University, thanked the Bethlehem University community, and gave a presentation about the meaning of a LaSallian higher education in a multi-cultural world.