Beirut:The Suliman S. Olayan School of Business at the American University of Beirut has unveiled a newly renovated faculty lounge dedicated to Professor Said Elfakhani, thanks to a generous donation from his family. The ceremony brought together Elfakhani's family, AUB leadership, faculty, staff, former students, colleagues, and friends to celebrate his contributions to the school.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the Said Elfakhani Faculty Lounge serves as a space for gathering, idea exchange, and strengthening the collaborative culture at the business school. The dedication pays tribute to Elfakhani's commitment to the school and his emphasis on community and giving back.
Professor Elfakhani, a finance academic, first joined AUB in 1998 and served until 2009. After returning in 2014, he continued until his retirement in August 2026. He held several leadership roles, including associate dean for programs, executive and continuing education, and convener of the finance, accounting, and managerial economics track, contributing significantly to teaching, research, and program development.
During the ceremony, OSB Dean Professor Yusuf Sidani highlighted his longstanding relationship with Elfakhani, expressing gratitude for his dedication to the university. AUB Provost Professor Zaher Dawy spoke about the importance of physical spaces in fostering a university community and noted the aptness of naming the lounge after Elfakhani, given his dedication to mentoring and community building.
Dr. Imad Baalbaki, AUB's senior vice president for advancement and business development, recalled recruiting Elfakhani and praised his foundational role as the first associate dean at OSB. AUB Vice President for Administration Mary Jaber acknowledged Elfakhani's broader impact on the community and relationships built during his tenure.
Former OSB Dean Professor Salim Chahine discussed the lounge's significance and the lasting memories it would preserve. Elfakhani himself expressed humility and gratitude for his relationship with AUB, emphasizing the mutual benefits he received and the deep connection his family holds with the university. He encouraged others to continue supporting AUB, calling it "our house, our home."
The Said Elfakhani Faculty Lounge stands as a lasting tribute to his contributions, offering future faculty a place to connect and collaborate, perpetuating the community spirit he fostered.
