The American University of Beirut (AUB) and its medical center (AUBMC) held a special honoring ceremony to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Karam Karam, marking 53 years of unwavering service and dedication to AUB, Lebanon, and beyond.
Organized in collaboration with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the ceremony was a powerful reminder of AUB's commitment to honoring its distinguished faculty. This heartfelt tribute highlighted Dr. Karam's extraordinary contributions to the field of obstetrics and gynecology and to generations of students, residents, and colleagues who were fortunate to learn from his expertise, professionalism, and compassion. Hosted by Dr. Anwar Nassar, chairperson of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the event was attended by a wide array of guests, including the president of AUB, faculty, and staff, as well as the prime minister of Lebanon, ministers, members of parliament, and other dignitaries—all of whom gathered to express their deep appreciation and admiration for Dr. Karam's lifelong dedication to education, healthcare, and the betterment of society.
AUB President Fadlo R. Khuri shed light on Dr. Karam's long and fruitful journey and said, “So today, as we honor you, we do so not just with admiration, but with immense gratitude. You have given so much—to AUB, to Lebanon, to all of us. Your work will continue to influence the medical field and to influence the people that you cared for, for generations to come. As much as that, they are going to remember your kindness, your wisdom, your sense of humor, and your belief in others. That will also leave a lasting impact on countless lives."
In his tribute, Dr. Anwar Nassar added, “Dr. Karam, you have left your mark on the lives of everyone who had the opportunity to meet and train with you. Over the years, you have amazed us with your wealth of knowledge and eloquence. Your dedication and love for the medical profession were unparalleled. From you, we learned how to be among the best, while remaining humble and elegant, loving and lovable. Dr. Karam, you have set a fine example for the rising generations." He concluded, “Your achievements are like jewels on your crown."
“As we stand here today, let us not only reflect on Dr. Karam's monumental achievements but also draw inspiration from his journey: a journey marked by relentless perseverance, visionary leadership, and an undying commitment to the betterment of humanity. Dr. Karam, you have not only led with expertise, but with a profound humanity that has touched the lives of everyone here and many more beyond these walls," said Dr. Raymond Sawaya, Raja N. Khuri Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs.
Former Lebanese minister and vice president of Alwaleed Bin Talal Humanitarian Foundation, Mrs. Leila Al Solh Hamade added, “We have known you as a skilled doctor and a compassionate human being. You stood by us during the most difficult times and through all our hardships."
Dr. Karam expressed his appreciation and thanked President Khuri, Dean Sawaya, and Dr. Nassar and added, “For those who entrusted me with their praise, a debt, all my life I will carry. How can I repay, when not enough is left for me?"
At the conclusion of the ceremony, AUB President Fadlo R. Khuri presented Dr. Karam with an honorary shield, and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam awarded him the Lebanese Order of Merit, First Class, on behalf of the President of the Lebanese Republic, in recognition of his distinguished career in medicine and public service and his legacy which will continue to inspire future generations of physicians and educators at AUB and across the region.
