The Beginnings
Since 1870, commencement ceremonies at the Syrian Protestant College were presented as an important aspect of the University’s academic and cultural life, reflecting its principles, values, and educational mission. Through their rituals, speeches, and academic traditions, these ceremonies conveyed ideas centered on education, medicine, ethics, liberal thought, freedom, democracy, and social responsibility. They also strengthened the relationship between the University and the wider community and highlighted the institution’s role as a bridge between Arab society and Western intellectual traditions.
These ceremonies emphasized adapting modern ideas to local Arab realities while encouraging nation-building, social development, confidence in Arab capabilities, and unity within the Arab world. Particular attention was given to the qualities cultivated in students and graduates, whose influence extended across various fields throughout the region and beyond.
The importance of character formation alongside academic instruction was underscored through a statement attributed to Rustum Pasha, Governor of Mount Lebanon, who praised the institution for producing honorable and capable individuals prepared to serve their countries effectively.[1]
[1] Khuri, Ghada. (1992).Khutab al Ihtifalat al Sanawiyah lil Madrasa Al Kulliyah al Suriyah al Ingiliah , American University of Beirut, Iskandar Adnan