NEWS




SEPTEMBER 16, 2026





The Faculty of Engineering Celebrated New Academic Promotions, Advancing a Culture of Excellence


The Faculty of Engineering Celebrated New Academic Promotions, Advancing a Culture of Excellence

As the University of Balamand prepares for another year of academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, the Faculty of Engineering proudly celebrates the promotion of five distinguished faculty members in recognition of their outstanding achievements in teaching, research, innovation, and academic service.

Effective September 1, 2026, these promotions reflect the University’s continued commitment to academic excellence and to supporting the professional growth and development of its Faculty of Engineering. The promotions received the unanimous endorsement of the Faculty Promotion Committee, the University Promotion Committee, and the University Council, and were formally ratified by the Board of Trustees (BOT) at its meeting on Friday, July 10, 2026.

The Faculty of Engineering is pleased to announce the following promotions:
Promoted to Full Professor
  • - Dr. Jean Claude Assaf – Chemical Engineering
Promoted to Associate Professor
  • - Dr. Ali Jahami – Civil & Environmental Engineering
  • - Dr. Dana Nasr – Civil & Environmental Engineering
  • - Dr. Firas Barraj – Civil & Environmental Engineering
  • - Dr. Macole Sabat – Mechanical Engineering
These promotions underscore the Faculty of Engineering’s commitment to fostering an environment in which faculty members can grow professionally, pursue meaningful scholarship, and contribute to the advancement of their respective disciplines and by nurturing the future engineers.

Reflecting on his promotion, Dr. Jean Claude Assaf expressed his appreciation to those who supported him throughout his academic journey, saying: “I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported me throughout this journey and pleased to work in such an encouraging environment. I look forward to continued growth and achievement in research, teaching, and academic leadership.”

In his turn, Dr. Ali Jahami described the promotion as a significant milestone, expressing his appreciation for the University’s continued support: “I am deeply honored and grateful to have been promoted to Associate Professor, a significant milestone in my academic career. I sincerely thank the University of Balamand for its continued trust, support, and commitment to fostering academic growth and excellence.”

Celebrating her promotion, Dr. Dana Nasr expressed her gratitude and pride, stating: “I am very proud and grateful to receive this promotion to Associate Professor, which represents an important milestone in my academic journey. I sincerely appreciate the continuous support of the Dean of the Faculty, my colleagues, students, and the University, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the success of UOB.”

Dr. Firas Barraj shared his enthusiasm for the new chapter in his academic career, stating: “I am proud and grateful to step into my new role as Associate Professor and excited to continue advancing academia, research, and knowledge in my field.”

In her turn, Dr. Macole Sabat stated:“ I am honored to be promoted to Associate Professor and grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout my academic journey. Reconnecting with alumni and reading their reflections made this milestone especially meaningful, filling me with pride, reminding me why I love this vocation, and renewing my commitment to our students, meaningful research, and the continued development of the Faculty of Engineering.”

Vice President for Internationalization and Engagement and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Professor Abboud also extended his warmest congratulations to the 5 newly promoted faculty members, wishing them continued success and achievement in their academic and professional careers. These promotions are a testament to their dedication and accomplishments and contribute to the Faculty of Engineering’s ongoing mission of educating future generations of engineers, advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and making a meaningful impact on society.



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