From the Trustee Development Committee Co-Chairs

Dear Friends:

AUB is more important than ever to Lebanon, the Middle East, and, indeed, the world. In this fast-paced age of globalization where the world is more interconnected, it is evident that AUB’s unique education that promotes progress and mutual understanding benefits not only the young men and women attending the University, but also the Middle East through its academic programs, research, and health services. The University’s supporters appear to agree as fundraising exceeded expectations in academic year 2001-2002. We are especially pleased to report there was a significant increase in total giving. Funds raised for 2001-2002 amounted to $10,475,070 – an increase of 68% from last year.

Annual giving grew at an exceptional rate. A fundraising priority for AUB, proceeds from annual appeals go to projects such as financial aid, faculty research, facilities, library holdings, and student life that keep AUB vibrant. Contributions to the annual fund climbed in 2001-2002 bringing in $2,753,000 for unrestricted support – an increase of 47% in total giving and 50% in participation by alumni and friends.

A number of major funding initiatives for AUB’s Faculties were undertaken in 2001-2002: The Salim Kheireddine Lectureship Series in Business, the Reuters Newsroom, the Anis K. Makdisi Program in Literature, the Bathish Auditorium in West Hall, the Raja Khuri Endowed Deanship in Medicine, and the Idriss Delivery Suite. Funding began on the Afif Iliya Fund for a Neurosurgery Library and on the Suhayl Uthman Fund for Endoscopy Suite. Named gift opportunities, such as the aforementioned, are not only financial commitments from donors, but are representative of their interest in strengthening AUB’s academic programs.

Alumni and volunteer groups continued their excellent work for the University. The President’s Club, Friends of the Museum, Women’s Auxiliary, Scholarship Fundraising Committee, and alumni branches and chapters worldwide gave their time and energy organizing receptions, galas, and concerts to raise money for scholarships and special projects. Without the continued support and high spirit of our dedicated volunteers, we would not be able to reach our goals.

To instill a culture of giving in our students AUB introduced the Fingerprints program in 2001-2002. Graduating students donate $25 or more to an endowed scholarship program, so that their fellow students can enjoy the same AUB experience they had. Over 350 graduating students, around a 30% participation rate, raised a generous sum of $10,543, with each gift matched by Dr. Shair and the University Student Faculty Committee. It was especially gratifying that the first donor was a student on financial aid. This is excellent start for an innovative program.

We are pleased to pay tribute to each supporter of AUB in this Contributors Report. In a politically and economically trying year, AUB certainly prospered thanks to you. However, your support is still needed as AUB launches its $140 million Campaign for Excellence. There is a price to progress and vision, and your continued participation will carry out the mission and the future of AUB. The University needs for everybody to get on board. Whether your gift is $10, $100, $10,000 or $10,000,000 – it will go to building the future of AUB.

Thank you for your support.

With our best regards,

Kamal Shair and Ray Irani