The benefit, which took place at the historical Sursock Museum, honored Lebanese businessman and philanthropist Philippe Jabre as Amideast’s 2024 Education Hero for his commitment to education in Lebanon through access to quality education to underprivileged as well as scholarship programs. This prestigious award recognizes those whose lifetime achievements have significantly advanced educational opportunities and inspired future generations in Lebanon and beyond.

In the face of heightened global crises, Amideast acknowledges that the most underserved communities, including people with disabilities, are at higher risk of increased vulnerability, limited access to resources, disrupted education, and social stigma. As we navigate these challenges globally, Amideast remains committed to advancing sustainable development goals for PwDs and ensuring that they are not left behind.

Amideast hosted a festive reception last night at The Phillips Collection to thank its friends and partners, to bid a fond farewell to long-serving former president and CEO, Ambassador (ret.) Theodore H. Kattouf, and to welcome its new president and CEO, Ambassador (ret.) Greta C. Holtz.  

The Skills for Success^® program helps participants access economic opportunities by improving their proficiency in workplace English and equipping them with personal and professional skills that facilitate their employability. To date, Amideast has assisted 144 participants with work or internship placement.

Ambassador Kattouf has served as Amideast’s president and CEO since September 2003, successfully guiding the organization through periods of regional and global challenges that have included the “Arab Spring” and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amideast/UAE, Boeing and the U.S. Mission to the UAE are proud to mark the graduation of 48 students who have successfully completed the STEM Ambassadors program in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The program, which was launched in January 2023, culminated in a graduation ceremony held on May 19, 2023 in Dubai.

Mr. Kochuba, who assumed his position on May 8, 2023, brings to Amideast over 20 years of experience as a career diplomat managing public affairs and developing strategic communications, outreach activities, and engagement programs for several U.S. embassies in the MENA region, including in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Tunisia, Morocco, and Kuwait. During these assignments, he worked with Amideast offices and other local partners to launch and to support educational, cultural, and exchange programs and partnerships for youth and young professionals. He was also posted to the U.S.

“The Institute's highest honor Is the newly struck Century Medal marking the second century of IIE’s service, and it is my very great pleasure on behalf of the IIE board directors to present it to you,” IIE's CEO, Dr. Allan Goodman, said as he presented the medal at a special ceremony at IIE’s headquarters on May 4.