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Newsletter Issue 06

WELCOME NOTE

Dear FHS alumni and friends,

I am delighted to share with you the recent achievements of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Balamand over the past six months. FHS has successfully welcomed 7 new faculty members who joined the UOB in September 2023. Among them, one postdoctoral and two assistant professors for the Nutrition Department, one postdoctoral for the Nursing Program, two assistant professors for the Medical Laboratory Sciences department, and one instructor for the Public Health Department.

Moreover, we are thrilled to launch a new 12 credit certificate program in Health Informatics, the first of its kind in Lebanon. This program has already garnered considerable interest from prospective applicants. In addition, FHS is currently in the process of developing a number of 12 credit-certificate programs addressing relevant areas in healthcare for Lebanon and beyond.

In this newsletter, we are profiling not only new faculty but also those of our graduates and alumni within our Balamandian community. We are also providing you with an update on our ongoing efforts towards achieving accreditation of our academic programs.

The newsletter also features the activities of the Center for Health Research, summaries of FHS newly funded research projects, and a list of the FHS publications from 2023. Additionally, we are pleased to share insights into the community initiatives led by the FHS Department of Community Engagement, showcasing their impactful contributions to the community.

Our FHS students have demonstrated exceptional leadership by organizing a large number of activities across all three campus sites, which deserve our highest commendations.

We hope you will enjoy reading this newsletter, and we look forward to sharing additional significant milestones with you in the near future.

Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer
Dean Faculty of Health Sciences

O U T L I N E

PROFILING NEW FACULTY

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

ACCREDITATION UPDATES

FHS NEW PROGRAM

FHS CENTER FOR HEALTH RESEARCH

FUNDED RESEARCH PROJECTS

PUBLICATIONS 2023

HONORS, AWARDS, AND RECOGNITIONS

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING & JOB READINESS

STUDENT CLUB ACTIVITIES

STUDENT SUCCESS STORY

ALUMNI SUCCESS STORY

Profiling New Faculty

Dr. Maud RIZK

Dr. Maud RIZK is a full-time Senior Lecturer at the Department of Nutritional Sciences. She has a BS in Nutrition and Dietetics, Masters in Sports Nutrition from Saint-Joseph University, and a PhD in Nutrition and Cancer from Burgundy Franche Comté University, France. She is a clinical dietitian with more than twelve years of experience in her private clinic. Her research is primarily focused on preventing chronic diseases, particularly cancer, through the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and dietary modifications.

For the past two years, Dr. Rizk was the head of Nutrition Department at the Lebanese German University, she taught nutrition courses, followed up interns in the hospitals and was involved in several interdisciplinary research projects. She also has 7 years of experience as responsible of the dietetic department in 3 different hospitals.

Dr. Mira DAHER

Dr. Mira Daher is a full-time post-doctoral fellow, holding a PhD in Nutrition from the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK). Mira earned her Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Notre Dame University, and her Master's degree in Clinical Nutrition from USEK. She is a clinical dietitian with more than ten years of experience. She is currently seeing patients in her private clinics, and has previously counseled patients at the Lebanese Army, and at Caritas-Lebanon as well. Dr. Daher has served as a part-time lecturer at different universities, where she taught nutrition courses. Her research interests include nutrition, metabolic disorders, and microbiology, where she has several publications in these fields. In addition to her research on low-calorie sweeteners, obesity, diabetes, and gut microbiota, she was involved in several research projects in the fields of nutrition and public health, and is a member of the disciplinary council at the Lebanese Order of Dietitians.

Dr. Dima MNAYER

Dr. Dima Mnayer, an Agriculture Engineer, is a full time Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Health Sciences. She completed her Ph.D in 2014 in Food Chemistry at Avignon University, France. She holds a postgraduate diploma (DEA, 2004) from the “Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie” in Food Quality Control and Management and a BS degree in Agricultural Engineering from Saint Joseph University in 2003.
She worked as a member of the coordination unit with Italian NGOs (the Italian Cooperation and AVSI)) in Rural Development Programs, from 2003 to 2007. After completing her PhD in 2014, she gave lectures and mentored students at USEK, USJ, AUST, and the Lebanese University as an associate Professor. In September 2023, She was appointed as Full Time Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Nutrition Department. She has published more than 16 scientific peer-reviewed papers and presented at major scientific meeting. Her research focuses on food science, food safety, and natural plant products extracts. she collaborates with food industries in developing novel foods with many grants supporting her research. Dr. Mnayer ranked one of top 1000 scientists in Lebanon in 2022.

Dr. Jessica Finianos

Dr. Jessica Finianos holds a PhD in Health Psychology from Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Tarragona (Spain) with Cum Laude distinction. She joined UOB on September 1, 2023 as a postdoc in the nursing program in the main campus from which she graduated years ago with a nursing degree. She also holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from UOB. She is a member of the Unit for the Study and Treatment of Pain-ALGOS and a member of the International Association for the Study of Pain, IASP. Her previous work focused on Arabic translation, cultural adaptation and validation of common pain intensity scales. She is currently working on an epidemiological study to determine the prevalence of pediatric chronic pain in Lebanon and the impact of some socio-cultural factors. Her studies served as a basis for pediatric chronic pain in Lebanon.

Dr. Zeina Dassouki

Dr. Zeina Dassouki is an academic and researcher in the field of “Molecular and Cellular Oncology”. After completing her BS in Biology, she completed her MS in Physiology and Neuroscience at Lyon University before starting her PhD journey in Hematology and Oncology as part of a collaborative research program between Paris-Diderot University and the American University of Beirut (AUB). In 2014, Dr. Dassouki graduated with distinction after authoring seven publications. Since 2023, Zeina has worked as an Assistant Professor at the University of Balamand in the Faculty of Health Sciences from 2015 till 2022, she served as an Associate Professor at the Lebanese University, where she has shared her knowledge in designing and delivering over ten major courses. Her research focus has primarily been on innovative therapeutic strategies in solid cancer, with an emphasis on targeted and natural biomolecules. Dr. Dassouki has so far co-supervised ten Master's and three PhD students in collaboration with Montpellier University and AUB. Such devotion to research has led to six published articles and two manuscripts in the submission process. In 2023, Zeina became a full time assistant professor at the University Of Balamand, Faculty of Health Sciences.
In 2021, Dr. Dassouki earned the "High-Level Scientific Stay (SSHN) Scholarship for Lebanese Researchers" from the French Embassy in Beirut, which aims to strengthen high-level scientific cooperation projects between France and Lebanon. Beyond her academic pursuits, Zeina is highly committed to communal work and community engagement in the fight against cancer. In 2016, she joined Amalouna (أملنا), an NGO affiliated with the “Cancer Prevention and Control Program” at NKBCI at AUBMC. Additionally, in 2022, Dr. Dassouki co-founded a home-based palliative care team, a local NGO based in her hometown (Tripoli), serving patients in the North Lebanon Governorate who are in their advanced stage of cancer.

Ms. Saada El Jurdi

Ms. Saada El Jurdi joined the Department of Public Health, Souk El Gharb (SEG) campus as a new faculty member. Equipped with a Master's in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the American University Beirut (AUB), she has more than 10 years of diverse research experience, covering water quality, smoking, and diabetes. Ms. Jurdi is passionate about bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world practice.
Ms. Jurdi is the instructor for key public health courses initiating students to statistical tools and epidemiological methods and practices. Having spent most of her career as a researcher and a consultant at AUB, AUBMC and the Qatari Supreme Council of Health, Saada brings in valuable hands-on experience in project coordination, data collection, data analysis, literature review and manuscripts writing. Thus, further enriching and supporting the Public Health research projects.
Beyond her direct academic contributions, Saada is coordinating the residency and the graduate practicum programs in addition to advising new public health students at SEG campus. Saada is committed to continuous development and is highly motivated to pursue a PhD when the right opportunity comes forth.

Department of Community Engagement

The Department of Community Engagement (DoCE) has been responsive to health, economic, and social pressures arising from different humanitarian crises in Lebanon and neighboring countries. DoCE aims to address community concerns and help populations enhance their physical, mental, social, environmental, developmental, and rightful health literacy so that they can achieve social and economic development, community prosperity, health, and well-being along three major axes: Healthier Society, Healthier School, and Safety and Protection (e.g. through our Landmines Resource Center).

The DoCE hosts internships for students and other interested volunteers and collaborates with partners at the national, regional, and international levels. It aims at facilitating service-learning and provides FHS students with opportunities to practice the knowledge learned in the classroom to gain professional, practical experience, while serving the community. The multidisciplinary and professional team combines expertise with knowledge and education. The practical and scientific results of community interventions are disseminated to researchers, policymakers, and the public. The Department has a wide variety of publications that are used for training services, knowledge sharing, and documentation purposes.

Lastly, the DOCE team was trained by Lebanon Mine Action Center about White Phosphorus and targeted in the awareness sessions the displaced people in the South and Bekaa regions in addition to Landmines and Unexploded Ordinance sessions. The team is also holding training workshops about Community Engagement, Social Behavior Change, in addition to developing guides about different topics. These were a sample of the many different projects that are conducted by the department. In 2023, the Department of Community Engagement continued its field activities and had so many interventions:

Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) with the Lebanon Mine Action Center of the Lebanese Army and UNICEF. Fifteen thousand persons were reached.
In response to the WHITE PHOSPHOROUS emergency in the South, a team at DoCE was trained and more than 22 volunteers are in the South working with locals to promote prevention.
Mine Victim Assistance (MVA) with the Lebanon Mine Action Center of the Lebanese Army and International Trust Fund. 25 beneficiaries received prosthetic limbs. 47 beneficiaries received psychosocial support. 15 beneficiaries received medical support. 5 beneficiaries received income generation project support.
Social Behavior Change and Community Engagement capacity building initiatives took place with UNICEF support to all UNICEF implementing partners all over Lebanon. Development community platforms, establishing parents-teacher associations, and children clubs were also part of the trainings. Almost 1200 community workers were trained.
Health education interventions on Cholera, Measles, Corona, and other emergency topics were implemented. Almost 1300 community workers were trained.
Training primary health care centers on community engagement and on integrated approaches took place in all the governorates of Lebanon. Almost 500 community workers were trained.
Training the youth from the UNICEF Palestinian Program took place on drug prevention, anger management and self-care, and on social behavior change and community engagement. 30 youth were covered.

Accreditation Updates

• Medical Laboratory Sciences
The MLS program aims to attain an NAACLS international accreditation for the BS and MS programs. The department is working on necessary update in order to meet accreditation agency requirements. So far, the following steps were done: the number of clinical sites to include private labs so students will have better exposure to the new technologies in the field was increased. The undergraduate curriculum was reviewed and the number of hours allocated to blood Banking, transfusion medicine, bioethics and quality assurance was amended. Some courses were combined and the students’ rotations in the different clinical sites were rearranged. The department is in the final stage to submit a consolidate file to the dean’s office for approval.

• Nursing
The on-site ACEN visit that was expected to take place on the first of July, was postponed to the fall semester 2024 due to the unstable political situation. The preparation of the self-study is ongoing. A new part-time faculty was appointed to assist in the preparation of the self-study report.

• Nutritional Sciences
The Department of Nutritional Sciences at the Faculty of Health Sciences has applied to the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) to open an ACEND accredited Nutrition and Dietetics Foreign Dietitian Education Program (FDE) to prepare Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. The eligibility application was accepted by ACEND in June 2023. The Department of Nutritional Sciences is in the pre-candidacy process for the above-mentioned proposed program. The Nutritional Sciences team has finalized the self-study report which was submitted on January 30, 2024. For the purpose of the self-study, the Nutrition team has addressed the eight standards for accreditation and has identified the Program strengths, areas of improvement and future plan for compliance with the required standards. The site visit by ACEND is expected in April 2024.

• Public Health Department
The Department of Public Health at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, is working towards applying for the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accreditation for both its undergraduate and graduate programs. The program submitted the Initial Application (IAS) in February 2024 and awaits the acceptance of its IAS to work further on the self-study and site visits.

FHS New Program: Health Informatics Certificate Program

FHS has prepared a proposal to launch a 12 credits online Certificate Program in Health Informatics. The program introduces students to the fundamentals, infrastructure, roles, and tools of health informatics. It delves into the technology and its applications in healthcare emphasizing both conceptual frameworks and practical applications of health information systems. Students will learn about the core concepts and challenges faced by healthcare professionals in the health sector when planning, implementing, and evaluating information systems. The 9 months program was launched February 2024.

FHS Center For Health Research

The Center for Health Research strives to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration in research. Faculty members are encouraged to share their latest findings and insights through the "Lecture Series," providing a platform for engaging discussions, knowledge exchange, and a deeper understanding of diverse topics within the faculty. Additionally, the center acknowledges the significance of international perspectives in research and hosts the "Methodology Corner" lecture series. Renowned national and international experts are invited to share insights on various research-related topics, offering valuable learning opportunities for both students and faculty, exposing them to cutting-edge methodologies and best practices.

Remaining steadfast in its commitment to advancing health sciences research, the center has organized compelling lectures under the "Lecture Series" and "Methodology Corner," featuring speakers who explore a wide array of relevant topics in the field.

Topic	Lecturer	Date
Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Malignant Diseases	Dr. Zeina Dasouki, UOB	October 31, 2023
Smoking: An Old Trouble with New Challenges. Research at the FHS	Dr. Jessica Saliba, UOB	November 7, 2023
Appraisal, Burnout and Coping in Dyads Living with a Chronic Illness	Dr. Angela Massouh, AUB	November 14, 2023
Systematic Review Methodology	Dr. Elie Akl, AUB	November 23,2023
Randomized Clinical Trials: Important Design and Analysis Concepts	Dr Ziad Mahfoud, AUB	November 30, 2023
Engineering microbial cell factories for the production of novel industrial biotechnological products	Dr. Hala Chamiyeh	March 28, 2023

FHS Funded Research Projects

Six FHS projects were funded through the UOB internal research grants

Principal Investigator	Project Title	Amount in USD	Duration
Dr. Jessica Saliba	Reversibility of smoke-induced damage in lung epithelial cells and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells after cessation of exposure to cigarette, e-cigarette or heat-not-burn tobacco products	26,900.00	2 years
Dr. Elias Abdou	Virulence-associated genes analysis and molecular typing of klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from patients with Bacteremia	20,000.00	2 years
Dr. Mira El Chaar	Serological and molecular prevalence of Hepatitis E virus among blood donors in Lebanon	19,900.00	2 years
Dr. Mathilde Azar	Determinants of female sexual functioning and breastfeeding	4,100.00	2 years
Dr. Zeina Dassouki	The cytotoxic effect of Jania Rubens extract: Promising antineoplastic role in combination therapy	3,500.00	2 years
Dr. Lara Haddad	Effect of mesenchymal stem cells and their secretome in comparison with cisplatin chemotherapy on ovarian cancer cell lines	10,000.00	1 year

FHS Publications 2023

Rassam RS, Abu-Saad Huijer, H., Noureddine S., Smith, EML., Wolfe, J., Fares, S., Abboud, M. Unfolding parental knowledge, attitudes and beliefs toward palliative care for children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer.2023; e30484. 70 (9). First published: 08 June 2023 https://doi.org/10.1002/pbc.30484

Abu-Saad Huijer, Huda |Sailian, Silva Dakessian||Fares, Souha||Bassila, Joelle, Predictors of quality of life in older adult patients in Lebanon: a cross sectional study, National Library of Medicine, Annals of Palliative Medicine, 12(2), 357. https://dx.doi.org/10.21037/apm-22-619 received outstanding author award.

Abbas, N., Rouaiheb, H., Saliba, J., & El‑Bikai, R. (2023). Childhood obesity: Facts and parental perceptions. World Academy of Sciences Journal, 5, 38. https://doi.org/10.3892/wasj.2023.215

Hani, Rita||Khayat, Luna||Rahman, Abir Abdel||Alaaeddine, Nada Effect of stem cell secretome in skin rejuvenation: a narrative review, Springer, Molecular Biology Reports, Volume 50, July15

Gnimavo RS, Fajloun F,Al-Bayssari C, Sodjinou E, Habib A, Ganlonon L, Claco E, Agoundoté I, Houngbo OA, Anagonou EG, Biaou CAO, Ayélo AG, Houezo JG, Boccarossa A, Moussa EH, Gomez B, Gine A, Sopoh GE, Marion E, Johnson RC, Kempf M. Importance of consultations using mobile teams in the screening and treatment of neglected tropical skin diseases in Benin, National Library of Medicine , PLoS neglected tropical diseases, Volume 17, May 23

Fajloun F, Ganlonon L, Gnimavo RS, Sodjinou E, Habib A, Claco E, Agoundoté I, Adeye A, Catraye P,Al-Bayssari C, Moussa EH, Robbe-Saule M, Houezo JG, Kpoton GG, Ayélo AG, Gomez B, Johnson RC, Marsollier L, Marion E, Kempf M. An Overview of 10 Years of Activity of a Molecular Laboratory for Buruli Ulcer Diagnosis at a Field Hospital in Benin , National Library of Medicine, Journal of clinical microbiology, 2023, Volume 61, June 20

Tabcheh J, Vergalli J, Davin-Régli A, Ghanem N, Pages JM,Al-Bayssari C, Brunel JM. Rejuvenating the Activity of Usual Antibiotics on Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria: Recent Issues and Perspectives, National Library of Medicine, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Volume 24 , Jan 23

Nocari, Iman||Fadel, Doha||Dano,Dominique||El-Bikai, Rana||Abbas, Nivine H., Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward COVID-19: A cross-sectional study among university students in Lebanon, Taylor & Francis Online, Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Volume 33,May 17

Finianos, J, Sánchez-Rodríguez E, Miró J. (2023). On the Unidimensionality and Agreement of Four Self-Report Pain Intensity Scales: A Study with Arabic-Speaking Children and Adolescents. Child Care in Practice. In Press.

Gemayel, Jack ||Chaker, Diana||El Hachem, Georges||Mhanna, Melissa||Salemeh, Rawad||Hanna, Colette||Harb, Frederic|Ibrahim, Ahmad||Chebly, Alain||Khalil, Charbel, Mesenchymal stem cells-derived secretome and extracellular vesicles: perspective and challenges in cancer therapy and clinical applications, Springer, Clinical and Translational Oncology, Volume 25, July 23

El Khoury, Maria||Salloum, Tamara||Al Kodsi, Ibrahim||Jisr, Tamima||Chaar, Mira El|Tokajian, Sima, Whole-genome sequence analysis of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae recovered from hospitalized patients, Elsevier, Journal of Global Antimicrobial Resistance, Volume 34, Sep 23

Obeid, Joelle||Shaito, Abdullah||Hajj, Hiba El||Deleuze-Masquefa, Carine||Bonnet, Pierre Antoine||El-Sabban, Marwan||Saliba, Jessica Biological applications of imiquimod analogues: An update (Review) SPANDIDOS Publications World Academy of Sciences Journal, Volume 8, June 30

El-Hajjar, Layal||Saliba, Jessica|Karam, Mario||Shaito, Abdullah||El Hajj, Hiba||El-Sabban, Marwan, Ubiquitin-Related Modifier 1 (URM-1) Modulates Cx43 in Breast Cancer Cell Lines, National Library of Medicine, International journal of molecular sciences, Volume 24, Feb 23

Rahi, Berna El||Mehanna, Zeina||Haidar, Suzan||Serhan, Mireille:|Hassan, Hussein F., Food allergies and allergens in Lebanon: Characterization and perceptions toward labeling, Elsevier, World Allergy Organization Journal, Volume 16, Feb

Serhan, Mireille |Yakan, Mira||Serhan, Carole, Sports nutrition knowledge translates to enhanced athletic performance: a cross-sectional study among Lebanese university athletes, Emerald Publishing Limited, Nutrition & Food Science, Volume 53, Aug 1

Serhan, Carole|Serhan, Mireille , Impact of nutrition service attributes on patient satisfaction: evidence from an outpatient clinic at a Lebanese-Middle Eastern hospital, emerald publishing, EuroMed Journal of Business, Volume 18, Feb 24

Serhan M and Julien SG (2024) Editorial: Adherence to the Mediterranean diet: microbiota and non-communicable diseases. Front. Nutr. 10:1352672. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1352672

Whaibeh, Emile|Mrad, Myriam ||Aouad, Norma||Annesi-Maesano, Isabella||Abbas, Nivine H.|Chaiban, Clara||Abi Hanna, Jowy||Abi Tayeh, Georges , The Environmental Exposures in Lebanese Infants (EELI) birth cohort: an investigation into the Developmental Origins of Health and Diseases (DOHaD), Taylor & Francis Online , International Journal of Environmental Health Research, Still in press

Jessica Saliba , Maya El-Sabban, Abdullah Shaito, Mohammad El-Harakeh, Joelle Obeid, Hiba El Hajj, and Marwan El-Sabban. Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2023 N. Rezaei (ed.), Handbook of Cancer and Immunology, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-80962-1_57-1

Abdullah Shaito,Jessica Saliba, Joelle Obeid, Mohammad El-Harakeh, Hiba El Hajj, and Marwan El-Sabban. Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2023 N. Rezaei (ed.), Handbook of Cancer and Immunology, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-80962-1_39-1

Honors, Awards, And Recognitions

• Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer appointed Adjunct full professor, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, U.S.A.
• Dr. Huda Abu-Saad Huijer ranked among the top 2% of researchers worldwide, # 1 at University of Balamand, and Number 11 in Lebanon, according to an international study by AD Scientific Index.
• Dr Charbel Al-Bayssari ranked Top 450 scientists in Lebanon and Top 13 at the University of Balamand according to an international study by AD Scientific Index.

Experiential learning and Job readiness

Jeff Ayoub – Medical Laboratory Sciences
Internship site: Saint Georges Hospital, Beirut
During the four trainings done in this prestigious hospital, I noticed the excellent coordination between the different departments in order to provide the best care for patients. The laboratory technicians are highly experienced and help us, as students, maximize the benefits of the training sessions and learn as much information in order to enrich our scientific background. At Saint Georges Hospital, the laboratory is equipped with the latest machines in order to generate accurate results. In addition, an increased number of patients lead to the diversity of tests that we were exposed to and learned from, which is an indicator of experience and professionalism on the staff level. Beside all these advantages, we should notice the efficient collaboration and guidance of Mrs. Ghada Marj, our clinical preceptor, and Mrs. Jessy Tohmeh, the clinical trainings coordinator, for their follow up and hard work to push all the trainees towards a maximum success. Overall, the laboratory at Saint Georges Hospital is an excellent learning environment because of the high standards put in place to provide the best patient care.

Sumaya Fayed – Nursing
Internship site: Clemenceau Medical Center
Nursing school is an empowering education that teaches students how to develop critical thinking abilities and maturity, in addition to how to become change agents. Interaction with patients and their families becomes a cornerstone of this progress, instilling not only professional skills but also a deep feeling of empathy. Beginning clinicals was exciting and challenging, but it was made easier by the presence of preceptors and instructors. I progressed considerably from the first day of my clinical, going from nervously introducing myself to confidently entering and meeting patients. The different clinical settings we pass by, ranging from medical-surgical to pediatrics, have a significant impact on our expertise. For me, the maternity floor was an incredible experience. Whether it was teaching new moms how to care for their newborns or simply watching a mother hold and bond with her newborn for the first time, it was a beautiful experience that I will never forget. Nurses play a vital role in the healing process; whether it’s holding a patient's hand, offering words of encouragement, or simply being present, it has a profound effect on the patient's experience. During one of the clinicals, I encountered a patient who had been diagnosed with depression and bipolar disorder; she was just a child at the time. Regardless of the medications, her depression did not improve significantly. My colleagues and I planned to spend the next day with her doing fun activities and playing together. Her smile still warms my heart; she enjoyed the day so much that she wrote us a card thanking us for relieving her depression, even if just for that day. Nursing isn't an easy profession and has an impact on a person’s health and mental well-being due to the stress it entails, but these little things make it worthwhile.

Tia Farha – Public Health and Development health student
Internship site: Barbara Nassar / Summer 2023
My time at the Barbara Nassar Association can be resumed in three profound words: hope, survival, and intimacy. This incredible NGO embodies hope by tirelessly supporting cancer patients, showcasing that among this public health challenge, hope persists. Witnessing the warriors facing their battles with contagious smiles taught me about true survival, navigating life's challenges with resilience. Moreover, the intimacy fostered within this community profoundly enriched my personality, emphasizing the power of human connection and compassion in the face of adversity. In conclusion, I've not only survived but thrived in response to the common assumption, "You won't manage being around cancer patients all the time”. This experience has proven my resilience and capacity for compassion, allowing me not just to endure but to thrive in this challenging yet deeply rewarding environment.

FHS student Club activities

The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) boasts a vibrant student club scene across its three campuses. Actually, the Fall semester witnessed exceptional engagement from FHS clubs, including the Medical Laboratory Club (MLC), Nursing Student Society (NSS), 4D Club, and Nutri Club. It should be noted as well that many FHS students play key roles in interdisciplinary and inter-faculty clubs. The collaboration between all these clubs on campus shone brightly at the circus-themed "Club Fair."

In addition, FHS clubs actively raised awareness throughout the semester. The NSS organized a Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, the 4D Club tackled Lead exposure and World AIDS Day, the MLC focused on Prostate and Breast Cancer, and the NSS and Nutri Club teamed up for Diabetes Day.

Beyond their own initiatives, FHS clubs played a major role in the Lebanese Independence Day Festival on campus. The MLC offered a traditional saj station, the NSS prepared the longest labneh sandwich, the Nutri Club showcased the healthy Lebanese cuisine in collaboration with the Helping Hands Club, and the 4D Club provided a photobooth, traditional games, and handcrafted soap.

The MLC partnered with the Chess Club for the Saint Barbara feast celebration, further demonstrating their interclub collaboration. FHS clubs also actively participated in events organized by other clubs, from mental health awareness with the Psych Savvy Club, antibiotics abuse awareness by the Pre-Med Club and the blood drive by the Biology Student Society and the Lebanese Red Cross to the remarkable Christmas concert with the Music Club.

Beyond their own initiatives, FHS clubs played a major role in the Lebanese Independence Day Festival on campus. The MLC offered a traditional saj station, the NSS prepared the longest labneh sandwich, the Nutri Club showcased the healthy Lebanese cuisine in collaboration with the Helping Hands Club, and the 4D Club provided a photobooth, traditional games, and handcrafted soap.

The MLC partnered with the Chess Club for the Saint Barbara feast celebration, further demonstrating their interclub collaboration. FHS clubs also actively participated in events organized by other clubs, from mental health awareness with the Psych Savvy Club, antibiotics abuse awareness by the Pre-Med Club and the blood drive by the Biology Student Society and the Lebanese Red Cross to the remarkable Christmas concert with the Music Club.

Student Success Story

When I was accepted into the University of Balamand, I didn't hesitate to choose this university for my studies. I had a strong feeling that Balamand would help me reach my true academic potential. At that time, my decision was based solely on my instincts. Now, having been accepted into medical school, achieving a 524 on the MCAT, and receiving the Founder of the University Patriarch Ignatius IV prize for the highest cumulative average among all Bachelor students, I am more convinced than ever that I made the right choice. I couldn't have accomplished all of this without the solid foundation and immense support of the Medical Laboratory Sciences family, to whom I dedicate my successes.

Dr. Abir Abdulrahman practically held my hands as I made my first steps into my journey of achievements when she advised me to choose medical lab as my premed major in our very first meeting together. The journey was challenging; completing the medical laboratory curriculum in three years (with the first year being online), along with pre-medical courses, and maintaining a 4.0 GPA, was an enormous task. However, this journey, with all its difficulties, has shaped me into who I am today. It's no surprise that medical school demands even more work and determination than the MCAT ever did. Yet, I feel that because I chose medical laboratory sciences as my major, I am perfectly equipped to face all the challenges that medicine presents. Moreover, my last year in my medical lab degree involved many training courses in hospitals, making medicine feel like a natural evolution of my undergraduate education. With all that being said, I cannot help but emphasize that the support and guidance I received from the Medical Laboratory Sciences family have been invaluable, and I am grateful for the opportunities that have prepared me for the next phase of my academic journey. I am eager to continue growing and learning as I pursue my passion for medicine, confident in the foundation I have built during my undergraduate years.

Alumni Success Story

Jean-Marc Mardirossian, Master in Clinical Laboratory Sciences

I graduated from the University of Balamand in the summer of 2023 with a master’s degree in medical laboratory sciences. Currently, I work as a special project associate in the discovery and translational research lab at the nephrology and hypertension department of Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville USA.

After fulfilling the requirements for my master’s degree from the University of Balamand, I was recruited by Mayo Clinic as a researcher. My current position grants me the opportunity to build on and improve what I have learned in the halls and classrooms of our university and paves my way to one day obtain my doctorate.

Today as I find myself surrounded by Ivy League graduates, I feel proud to be an alumnus of the University of Balamand for it is where as an undergrad I have developed my dream of becoming a researcher and graduate student gained the mentality and technical experience to become a scientist.

Jowy Abi Hanna, Master of Public Health (MPH)

Jowy Abi Hanna is a Master of Public Health (MPH) – Community health track graduate from the University of Balamand, Faculty of Health Sciences. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Life and Earth Sciences and a master 1 degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the Lebanese University. The MPH degree helped her integrate and apply her biology background in the fields of public health research and interventions.

During her studies at UOB, Jowy worked as a research assistant in the Department of Public Health, as a part of the graduate assistantship program. This fruitful experience helped her gain skills and expertise in a variety of research-related areas including data collection and analysis, proposal writing, project planning and coordination, as well as new laboratory techniques and procedures. Similarly, as an MPH student, Jowy actively participated in the First International Conference on Climate Change and Health, held at the Jordan University of Science and Technology – JUST, as part of a National Institutes of Health (NIH) -funded hub on Climate Change and Health in The Middle East and North Africa in September 2022. Furthermore, she was part of the organizing committee of the 2nd GEOHealth hub on Climate Change and Health in MENA international conference and training held in June 2023 at the University of Balamand. This distinguished event brought together renowned international and regional experts, delivering invaluable insights and knowledge. Over 150 experts, researchers, instructors, students, and staff from various regional and national entities attended the conference.

Currently, thanks to the NIH grant secured by the Department of Public Health, Jowy has started her Ph.D. in environmental health. In addition to her doctoral studies, she serves as a part-time instructor and practicum coordinator at the Department of Public Health. Jowy is actively engaged as a researcher under the GEOHealth hub and fulfills the role of coordinator in the newly established Center for Health Research at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand. Furthermore, she acts as a project coordinator with a local NGO, Health and Environment Response Agency (HERA), whose primary goal is to assess human health risks associated with environmental exposures, communicate about these risks, and promote healthy living in a clean environment.

The experience and skills she acquired while working in the Faculty of Health Sciences, specifically with the Public Health Department, enabled her to develop multidisciplinary skills. These skills have enabled her to contribute effectively to academia, research, and community areas.

Nadine Ghammachi, clinical dietitian

Miss Nadine Ghammachi is a clinical dietitian and early to mid-career researcher based in Sydney, Australia. She received her Bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from the University of Balamand, Faculty of health sciences in 2017. She worked as a clinical and community dietitian for a couple of years in Lebanon. In 2020, Miss Ghammachi joined a Master of Public Health Research program at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia. She was granted the prestigious “international Macquarie Research Excellence Scholarship – iMQRES”. During her Master of Research, she conducted a web-based nutrition intervention to promote sustainable and healthy diets in Australia that was published and presented at a couple of national conferences including the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) annual conference. After completing her degree in 2022, she worked as a research assistant at Macquarie University and Cancer Council Australia. Miss Ghammachi is currently working at the George Institute for Global Health in Sydney, which is ranked the top research institute in Australia and 33rd globally. She is involved in a variety of projects including nutrition labelling studies, Global salt reduction initiatives and global switch to potassium-enriched salt, the “Food is Medicine” trial, climate change and mental health, plant-based diets and school feeding interventions. Miss Ghammachi was recently granted a University International Postgraduate award from the University of New South Wales, Sydney. She has been previously published in peer-reviewed journals such as “Sustainability” and “Nutrition Bulletin”.