Even when you don’t hear from us often, please know that you are always on our minds. Every single day we see the impact of your generosity on our students’ lives, their education, and their futures. We simply could not continue this journey without your support, and for that we are deeply grateful and humbled.
This summer brought something meaningful we could not ignore with many reasons to be grateful: graduations. Across our LE.O community, students completed their High School diplomas, undergraduate degrees, and master’s programs. (Our PhD students are still hard at work!)
Our graduates crossed stages in Belgium, Germany, Cyprus, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Gaza, the West Bank, Ireland, Scotland, Britain, and the United States. Each graduation represents perseverance, determination, and the power of opportunity.
But hope did not stop there. There were engagements, marriages, and even a few new babies! I like to think of them as LE.O’s grandchildren—a beautiful reminder that when you invest in a student’s future, you’re helping shape generations to come.
Behind these milestones, our work to support students in and from Gaza has continued without hesitation. In fact, more LE.O student volunteers than ever before have stepped forward to help us meet the growing need. Their commitment inspires us every day, but the need remains as urgent now as it has ever been. We gently encourage you not to give in to donor fatigue. Your continued support is making an immeasurable difference, and in the coming weeks we will share a report highlighting the extensive work being carried out to support our students from Gaza.
On a personal note, July 16th would have marked my Baba’s 100th birthday—a milestone he had hoped to celebrate. Those who knew and loved him often believed he would reach it, so fitting was it for a man who lived such an extraordinary life. May he rest in peace.
I am also delighted to share that a gifted journalist and writer, Abdelrahman Abuasaker has undertaken on the ambitious project of creating a digital book celebrating my Baba’s remarkable life and achievements. We look forward to sharing it with you in the coming months.
We hope your summer is time enjoyed with family and an opportunity to recharge.