FFA Private Bank Makes Generous Gift to Benefit Students in Need
FFA Private Bank made a generous first-time gift to the Lebanese American University (LAU) on August 17, 2021, during a visit to the institution’s Beirut campus. At a time when the number of students in financial need is growing at an unprecedented rate, the donation will be earmarked towards providing relief for a number of scholars who are unable to afford tuition due to Lebanon’s worsening conditions.
“The determination of the Lebanese people illustrates their ability to stay strong in the toughest of times. From the COVID-19 pandemic and the aftermath of the Beirut Port explosion, compounded with a rapidly deteriorating economy, I believe that we can still build hope for a better future for Lebanon and its people,” said Mr. Jean Riachi, Chief Executive Officer at FFA Private Bank.
His statement highlighted the sentiments shared by LAU’s representatives – including President Michel E. Mawad – at the meeting, who were grateful for FFA Private Bank’s support at such a critical time.
“This donation is a direct source of hope for our students who are in growing need of help. It is a joy for us to witness FFA Private Bank investing in a brighter future for Lebanon through their support of its students today,” said LAU Assistant Vice President for Development, Nassib N. Nasr to Mr. Riachi and Chief Operating Officer at FFA Private Bank, Mrs. Mireille Korab Abi Nasr, during the signing ceremony.
Nicole Barghoud, LAU’s Senior Director of Development, helped facilitate the gift and expressed her gratitude for the donor’s commitment to education.
“It is so delightful to see the spirit of giving is still alive through FFA Private Bank’s generous donation. As Lebanon’s economy continues to deteriorate, FFA Private Bank shows faith in our youth, and demonstrates to us a spirit of resilience that will allow us to sail to safe shores,” Barghoud said.
FFA Private Bank’s generous donation will be disbursed to students who are in critical need of financial aid starting in fall 2021 and is open to any student regardless of major, as long as they are in good academic standing and require scholarship support.
“LAU has launched several campaigns in the wake of Lebanon’s crises – and as a result, we have been able to increase financial aid for students from $50 million to $80 million. FFA Private Bank’s contribution has given us immense support, enabling us to carry out our mission to educate our students despite their economic challenges,” Dr. Mawad highlighted at the signing ceremony.
As LAU continues to ask for resources towards its Emergency Financial Aid Fund (EFAF), FFA Private Bank’s gift will be a direct lifeline for vulnerable students who might otherwise have to forfeit their hopes of attaining a university degree.
“There is no gift more valuable than that of educating our youth. For that, we owe FFA Private Bank tremendous thanks,” said LAU’s Vice President for University Advancement, Dr. George K. Najjar.
The bank reconfirmed its commitment to the institution during the visit, providing hope for a better tomorrow for LAU, its students, and Lebanon overall.
“We feel deep compassion for Lebanon’s youth, and we are ready and willing to continue providing our support to students at LAU to help offer them a brighter future,” Mrs. Abi Nasr stated.
If you would like to make a donation towards student scholarships at LAU, please visit the Emergency Financial Aid Fund website.