For some, AUB is not just a great place to study and work, but the beginning of a love story. Compiled here are photos and stories of married couples who met at AUB. Did you meet at AUB?
"One summer day in 1962 in Aley, I encountered a small group of friends on a hike to Ras el-Jabal and was introduced to a lovely newcomer named Leila Salamoun. Coming from an athletic family, I decided to lead the hikers on a very challenging climb just to test Leila's athletic abilities! The next day, Leila didn’t have sore muscles, but she did have a toothache, and she called for an appointment at my dental office. Thus began a happy love story now in its 52nd year and crowned by three important achievements: 1) the raising of a family of three wonderful children, a son and two daughters; 2) a long-term commitment to my busy Bliss Street dental practice; and 3) a lifetime of dedication by Leila to her alma mater through voluntary service, working on several alumni committees. We look back at our life together as a blessing. We are thankful to all those who helped us make it.” Zahi
Laura and Avedis met in the Biochemistry Department at AUB in 1958. They were married several years later. They currently reside in Princeton, New Jersey. Avedis is professor emeritus at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and former head of endocrinology at that institution. He was a professor of biochemistry at AUB from 1959-74.
Naila and Sami met at a friend’s wedding. "Must have clicked because we got engaged soon after. But after 49 years of marriage we stopped taking photos! Here is a photo from Valentine’s Day 2014 taken by a friend."
Grace and Raja met at AUB on social occasions and hiking trips during the 1949-50 school year. They married in 1959. Dr Hajjar was associated with LAU for 33 years as a professor and an administrator. The couple has three children: Mona (BS '84), Leila (BS '85), and Ramzi Hajjar (BS '88), an associate professor of geriatric medicine at AUBMC.
Najwa was a student in AUB's first journalism class in 1949. She was a staff writer for Outlook, and editor-in-chief of the alumni publication Al Kulliyah. Despite parental opposition, Najwa and Kamal were married and had many happy years together.
Amal and Musa live near campus and have five children and 14 grandchildren. "Our journey continues, always keeping AUB in our hearts, and aspiring 'to have life and have it more abundantly'."