Dr. Fadlo Khuri’s Excellence Recognized by the American Academy of Arts & Sciences

Challenges often shape the course of a leader’s journey, and for Dr. Fadlo Khuri, those challenges manifested in the form of crises that tested his resolve. Yet, through it all, he remained unwavering in his vision of hope, excellence, and healing. His recent election to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences stands as a powerful testament to the lasting impact he has made on education, medicine, and global leadership.

Dr. Fadlo Khuri: A Foundation Built on Education and Service

Born into a family deeply committed to medicine and education, Dr. Khuri’s early life was shaped by a sense of purpose and excellence. After excelling academically in the United States, he built a remarkable career in oncology, research, and leadership—laying the foundation for a lifetime of service to others.

Before returning to Lebanon, he became a celebrated physician-scientist at MD Anderson Cancer Center and later served as Chair of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Emory University School of Medicine. His work consistently pushed the boundaries of cancer research and patient care.

Photo from AUB

Answering the Call: Leading AUB Through Historic Challenges

In 2015, Dr. Khuri became the 16th President of the American University of Beirut (AUB)—one of the most critical institutions in the Middle East. His leadership would soon be tested like never before.

During his presidency, Lebanon faced the third-worst economic collapse in modern history, the devastating Beirut port explosion, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2023–24 war on Lebanon. Amid these historic crises, Dr. Khuri remained steadfast, leading AUB through an era of transformation and hope.

Transformative Impact: A Vision Realized

Under his leadership, AUB not only survived—it evolved:

• Academic tenure was restored after a 30-year absence.

• Financial aid tripled to support students in need.

• AUB Online was launched, expanding global access to education.

• AUB opened a new community hospital in Jounieh.

• AUB – Mediterraneo in Cyprus was established—the university’s first twin campus abroad.

• Tobacco was banned on campus, reflecting a deep commitment to public health.

Beyond academia, Dr. Khuri contributed to national cancer policies and played a critical role in Lebanon’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts.

AUB’s dramatic rise in international rankings is a direct reflection of his visionary leadership.

Recognition of Excellence: Elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences

In 2025, Dr. Khuri was elected as a member of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, one of the most prestigious honorary societies in the world.

Founded in 1780, the Academy recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to scholarship, the arts, leadership, and public affairs.
Dr. Khuri joins a distinguished group of world leaders, scientists, artists, and thinkers whose work has shaped our understanding and bettered our world.

His election is not just a personal honor—it is a recognition of the resilience, innovation, and humanity he has championed throughout his career.

A Life Dedicated to Progress and Healing

Throughout his journey, Dr. Khuri has authored over 750 scientific publications, edited Cancer—one of the leading oncology journals—and received numerous international awards.

Yet, perhaps his greatest achievement lies in the countless lives he has touched through his unwavering commitment to education, research, and compassionate leadership.

Lighting the Way Forward

Dr. Khuri’s story is a beacon of resilience and hope. His election to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences affirms that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, leadership rooted in compassion, vision, and perseverance can transform institutions—and entire nations.

“When faced with darkness, we light a candle—not just for ourselves, but for others.” – Dr. Fadlo Khuri

Through every challenge, Dr. Khuri has not only kept the light burning—he has made it shine even brighter for generations to come.

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By: Md Foorquan Hashmi, MD, Sr. Editor, OncoDaily: India Bureau