Selected anecdotes of the Founding Fathers

In late 19th-century Beirut, the founders of the Syrian Protestant College (SPC) laid the foundations of a visionary institution with resilience, wit, and a deep commitment to character-building.

Many anecdotes were remembered by students, the community, and neighbors. These stories, recorded in student publications and public literature, reveal the values and ethical standards held and upheld by the founding fathers.

One anecdote captures the humor of Dr. Van Dyck, who, when approached by a parent concerned about high tuition fees, advised the parent to buy a donkey with the money instead. This way, he joked, the family would have "two donkeys instead of one"—implying that the boy, without an education, might be no better off than the animal.

Another story highlights George Post’s ingenuity in handling a rat problem around Post Hall. Rather than being deterred, he tackled the issue with clever solutions that endeared him to students and staff.

President Daniel Bliss demonstrated his unique approach to nurturing integrity and character in students. When he discovered that students had stolen his chicken, he invited them to a dinner featuring poultry but made no mention of the theft. His silent rebuke left a powerful impression, encouraging them to reflect on their actions without direct reprimand.

Through such anecdotes, the SPC founders revealed their humor, innovative problem-solving, and commitment to building a transformative educational space that fostered both intellectual and moral growth.