On Thursday, 6 May 2021, Vice Chancellor Brother Peter Bray and Director of Advancement Ms. Dalia Qumsieh welcomed the Ambassador of Chile to the State of Palestine, H.E. Mr. Christian Hodges-Nugent, and his Deputy, Mr. Ricardo Cardenas, on their first visit to Bethlehem University since assuming office in April 2021.

Brother Peter briefed the Ambassador and his deputy about Bethlehem University, its history, and mission to serve the Palestinian people through education. H.E. Mr. Hodges-Nugent toured the campus and visited various faculty buildings, and interacted with faculty, students, and staff on campus. Bethlehem University’s development plans were also shared and discussed with H.E. Mr. Hodges-Nugent, including the planned Georgette Salameh Center.

Brother Peter referred to the long-standing relations between Bethlehem University and the Palestinian community in Chile, as well as the Chilean civil society and academic institutions, including the Catholic University of Chile, and reiterated the importance of sustaining and building on such close cooperation in the future.

The delegation then enjoyed lunch in the Institute of Hotel Management training restaurant where food was cooked and served by Bethlehem University’s students. Student ambassadors were able to share some of their experiences with the notable guests during lunch.