Safa Jafari Safa, Office of Communications, communications@aub.edu.lb
Curator of the Archaeological Museum at the American University of Beirut (AUB), Dr. Nadine Panayot, has been honored with the prestigious insignia of Knight of Arts and Letters in recognition of her significant contributions and commitment to the arts, heritage conservation and promotion, and literature.
The distinction was bestowed at the French Embassy in Beirut by Jean-François Hébert, the French Director General of Heritage and Architecture, on behalf of the Minister of Culture Rima Abdul Malak.
“This milestone not only reflects my personal achievements but also highlights the significance of arts and culture in our society," Panayot commented. “This distinction serves as a testament to the value and impact of my work, and I am deeply honored to receive such recognition."
Originating in France, the insignia of the Order of Knight of Arts and Letters « Insignes de l'Ordre de Chevalier des Arts et Lettres », is today an international prominent recognition of individuals who have made significant contributions to the fields of arts and literature and have demonstrated outstanding achievements and dedication to the promotion of culture.
The criteria for selection are based on a thorough evaluation of an individual's cultural accomplishments, as well as their influence and contributions to the cultural landscape. This title recognizes the recipient's efforts in fostering cultural exchange, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting the development of artistic expression.
“Preserving and promoting cultural heritage is inherently a collaborative effort… This accolade primarily acknowledges the collective work of all those who have contributed and will continue to dedicate their energy to museums, archaeological sites, and historical monuments. Their efforts serve to enhance and promote the role of cultural heritage in our societies," said Panayot at the awarding ceremony which was held at the Embassy of France in Lebanon, Residence des Pins.
Committed to excellence in all fields including the arts and literature, the American University of Beirut fosters an environment that nurtures creativity and supports cultural endeavors and artistic pursuits. Through its various programs, faculty, partnerships, and initiatives, it impacts the broader artistic community and continues to make significant contributions to the cultural fabric of society.
“This title will serve as a motivation for me and the AUB community to continue promoting the arts and literature. It will encourage artistic innovation and further contribute to the advancement of cultural understanding, and as a Knight of Arts and Letters, I will strive to uphold the values of this distinguished honor, working towards the enrichment of our society through the power of the arts and literature," Panayot told us.
Dr. Nadine Panayot has been serving as curator of the Archaeological Museum and associate professor of practice at the American University of Beirut since September 2020. With a doctorate from Paris 1 la Sorbonne in classical Mediterranean archaeology, she is also member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM ) since 1992, vice president of the Executive Committee of ICOM Lebanon since 2010, and member of the Executive Committee of ICOM Arab since 2013.