USAID Lebanon: From the American People
 

PRESS RELEASE

USAID PRESENTS SCHOLARSHIP FUNDING TO THE LEBANESE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY AND THE AMERICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Beirut, Lebanon

The U.S. Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/Lebanon Acting Director Thomas Staal presented scholarship checks to the Lebanese American University (LAU) and the American Community School (ACS) on August 29, 2008.

At the LAU, Mr. Staal was welcomed by the President, Dr. Joseph Jabbra, and a group of students who are benefiting from this scholarship assistance. LAU received a check totaling $293,447 which is part of a $3.7 million a grant for the academic year 2007-2008. This grant helps more than 410 students complete their studies.

At the ACS, Mr. Staal presented a $187,682.68 check to the Headmaster, Dr. George Damon. This check is part of the $500,000 grant for the academic year 2007-2008.  The grant funds scholarships for more than 140 students, campus improvement and IT equipment.

The U.S. Government’s support to LAU and ACS reflects the importance the United States places on education and its role in promoting a democratic and economically prosperous Lebanon.  The scholarship programs at LAU and ACS target students coming who would not otherwise be able to attend American educational institutions. This year the United States through USAID has provided a total of $10.1 million to five American educational institutions in Lebanon: the American University of Beirut (AUB), the Lebanese American University (LAU), Haigazian University, the American Community School (ACS) and the International College (IC).

USAID has worked in Lebanon since 1951 and implemented development projects to benefit Lebanese citizens. With funds from the American people, USAID creates jobs, invests in youth and protects the environment.  USAID’s work reflects the strong friendship between the Lebanese and American people.