september 16, 2008

Bethlehem university faculty and staff ready to serve record number of students

“We are beginning the 35th year of this university, which, given the situation in this part of the world, is a sign of the grace of God,” Brother Robert Smith, Vice President for Academic affairs and interim Vice Chancellor, said as he opened the faculty and staff meeting on Friday, August 22. The meeting, which is held at the beginning of each semester, was marked by the launching of a new award and the introduction of large numbers of new staff and faculty. 

Rewards for performance and faithfulness

On behalf of the administration, Brother Robert gave thanks to the current faculty and staff, and showed his appreciation for the considerable achievements that were made in the past years.

As well, four members of the university community were specially honored for their efforts and dedicated service. There were three promotions to be celebrated: Ms. Amal Abu Nijmeh, Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences, Ms. Mariam Awad, lecturer in the Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences and Mr. Walid Atallah, lecturer in the Department of Humanities.

Additionally, this year the administration of Bethlehem University inaugurated a new award, called the “Employee of the Year”. The award was won by Nihad Jubran, supervisor of the Bethlehem University Computer Center. In her laudation, Brother Robert highlighted the outstanding professionalism of Ms. Jubran, who manages the challenging task of leading the team responsible for keeping computer facilities up-and-running for more than 3000 students, faculty and staff.

Ms. Jubran graduated from Bethlehem University in 1980 with a Bachelors degree in Maths, and was hired when the university started using computers. “I remember how in the first years we used to work with one single, huge computer that almost filled an entire room. Now the university is equipped with more than 500 computers and that is only one part of our job. Now there are printers, scanners, servers, the home page and so on,” Ms Jubran said of her work. “And even if my job sometimes involves a lot of pressure, I love my work at Bethlehem University. What I enjoy the most is working with my team. We’re like a family.”

Challenging financial situation

Sami El- Yousef, Vice President for Finances, also gave an update on the fiscal situation of the University. He said that there is a lack of funding for running costs and expenses have increased. The increase in the university’s expenses is mostly due to unfavorable exchange rates and an adjustment of faculty and staff salaries in order to compensate for a rise in the local cost of living. The current financial situation of Bethlehem University constitutes a great challenge for the university community, said Mr. El- Yousef.

 University community keeps growing

Despite these challenges, the Bethlehem University community continues to grow and expand its international links. Dr. Irene Hazou, Assistant Academic Vice President, presented the latest academic developments, which include two new masters programs: Tourism and Pilgrimage, and Biotechnology.  As well, she introduced a new minor in Catechism and, a diploma program in Teaching Mathematics. Additionally, she highlighted the upcoming visit of a delegation from the BU Irish Foundation, who will arrive in October with the aim of exploring new possibilities for cooperation. Also, more than a dozen new faculty and staff were welcomed and introduced to the university community.         

In closing, Brother Robert once again encouraged: “With the help of God, the support of our friends all over the world and with your spirit of commitment we will meet the challenge together and we will succeed!”