Rafik Hariri University Official Presidency Handover ceremony took place on January 31st. The historical moment culminated three splendid years for Dr. Riad Chedid as president of Rafik Hariri University and presented an outset of a new presidency era, endorsed by the appointment of Dr. Ahmad Smaili as the new President of RHU.

The event was held in RHU Middle East Conference Hall in the presence of Mrs. Nazik Rafik Hariri, President of RHU Board of Trustees and President of Rafik Hariri Foundation, represented by Mrs. Huda Tabbara, and Mrs. Salwa Siniora Baasiri, Director General of Rafik Hariri Foundation, Trustees, Vice Presidents, and Faculty and Staff Members.

Following the national anthem, Dr. Riad Chedid, delivered an inspirational address that spoke of his experience as President of Rafik Hariri University. “I am honored to be meeting with you for this last time as President of Rafik Hariri University, the university that carries the name of a man who contributed abundantly to his country. It has been my honor to work under the supervision of a distinctive Board of Trustees and Board President, Mrs. Nazik Rafik Hariri, the lady who realizes the needs of the nation and endeavors to fulfill the dream of Martyr Rafik Hariri.

Working with the RHU team of Vice-Presidents, Deans, Professors, Staff and Students has been an enriching experience for me. I am leaving fully satisfied that I have contributed in all my capacity to this remarkable institution. I am certain this university shall progress with great momentum as I have full confidence in Dr. Ahmad Smaili’s human and moral characteristics and scientific and administrative prowess. I extend my good wishes to Dr. Ahmad Smaili and all the members of the RHU community to succeed in realizing the expectations that H.E. Martyr Rafik Hariri had for this university.”

Following was a word from Dr. Ahmad Smaili. “It is an honor for me to take over the responsibility of leading this university for the years to come, with all the meanings, values, distinguished history, and clear vision it embodies. It is hard to say goodbye to Dr. Riad Chedid, but institutions carry on and so does life. The most pressing feeling at this moment is that same deep conviction that characterized the past three years while working with Dr. Riad Chedid, perseverance. This outstanding university and the unlimited moral support granted by the University Board of Trustees, and Board President Mrs. Nazik Rafik Hariri makes us determined to move on.

The most profound essence of life is to be able to serve and I thank Dr. Chedid for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the progress of this great institution. Martyr Rafik Hariri was the torch that lit up the darkness in Lebanon's history. We are responsible to keep that light glowing for the future generations.

The kind of work relationship that shall characterize the coming period is not only based on team work. It is based on commitment and I am confident that we shall succeed and excel.

From the bottom of my heart, I extend my appreciation to the trust that the BOT members have vested in me especially Mrs. Nazik Rafik Hariri because, as Dr. Chedid said, she has that unwavering commitment that this institution continues to serve for generations to come.

At the end of the ceremonial, Ms. Huda Tabbara, Ms. Salwa Siniora Baasiri, Dr. Riad Chedid and Dr. Ahmed Smaili took the stage for a memory photo. Ms. Huda Tabbara presented Dr. Riad with a bouquet of flowers.

At his departure, Dr. Chedid shook hands with throngs of faculty and staff members who gathered outside the hall. It is not about goodbye but an appreciation for the impact he made to RHU.