The hardest part of goodbyes to someone is to say goodbye to all the beautiful characteristics that made them who they are and touch so many lives. Generous, supportive, dedicated, positive, encouraging, compassionate, and indeed pleasant were a few of the many magnificent characteristics of RHU faculty member Professor Leila Ayoub.

Professor Ayoub spent more than 20 years at RHU College of Arts and Sciences English language instructor and coordinator of the English Support Center. She passed away after a moderate illness on October 6 and was honored on October 8 at a gathering of RHU faculty, staff, students, and friends as an instructor, mentor, and educator.

News of her death affected the people who knew her and mostly her current and former students. They shared the news of her loss on social media while describing her dedication to her teaching profession and the positivity that affected their lives.

RHU President, Dr. Makram Suidan, delivered a touching word and described Professor Ayoub as an irreplaceable and devoted instructor who never asked anything for herself but her students. He announced the creation of the Leila Ayoub Memorial Scholarship Fund that aims at helping students with academic potential but limited financial resources to meet the cost of their university tuition. It also embodies Ms. Leila Ayoub’s staunch heart, desire to support students, and endless compassion and commitment to her profession. He also announced the naming of the English Support Center by the Leila Ayoub English Support Center.

Words by RHU Student Affairs Manager, Ms. Sahar Hallak, and two of Professor Ayoub’s students, Mazen Nasser and Sara Abou Shousha, spoke of Ms. Ayoub’s continuous support and encouragement, bringing tears to everyone’s eyes.

A touching video, created overnight by Mostafa Badih and Moaz Kabbour, included statements from RHU alumni Makram Bou Hatoum, Ghina El Hajj, and Ibrahim Mattar. It spoke of her unconditional love, dedication, and generosity and recalled her amiable spirit that spread positivity all over campus.

White roses to all attendees bore Dr. Ayoub’s picture with the words: You will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace. RHU arranged a shuttle service to her home in Bekaa for all RHU community members who wanted to extend their condolences to Professor Ayoub’s family.

Everyone on campus is going to miss Professor Ayoub’s energy. May her soul rest in the heavens.