Saint Joseph University of Beirut celebrates its 150th anniversary
Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ), founded in 1875, marks a significant milestone in its rich history of academic excellence, resilience and commitment to Lebanon’s future as it celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.
This anniversary reaffirms USJ’s enduring mission to shape a brighter, more united Lebanon, empowering the youth and strengthening its global academic presence. Focused on education, civic responsibility, and innovation, USJ continues its transformative work, building on its legacy to foster social and academic progress. Through initiatives in digital transformation, healthcare, and global expansion, the university upholds values of solidarity, inclusion, and excellence, ensuring a prosperous future for all. As we reflect on its 150-year journey, USJ looks ahead with a renewed commitment to making history for the next generations.
Launch of the 150th Anniversary Celebrations
The celebrations began two years ago, with a ceremony on 13 October 2023, when USJ awarded honorary doctorates to five exceptional individuals. On 30 April 2024, USJ officially launched its 150th anniversary celebrations with a grand ceremony that brought together over 700 distinguished guests, including government officials, diplomats, academics, and business leaders. The event featured speeches from prominent figures who emphasized USJ’s long-standing contributions to education, research, and societal development. A key highlight was the signing of the USJ-Côte d’Ivoire (USJ-CI) Pact, followed by the presentation of USJ’s 150th anniversary medal to several distinguished Ivorian figures, marking a significant step in the ongoing mission to strengthen global academic ties.
Inauguration of the Hall of Donors
On 20 September 2024, USJ inaugurated the Hall of Major Donors, a tribute to the generosity of over 2,900 benefactors who have supported its mission. The event, attended by prominent figures including former Lebanese President Amine Gemayel and Minister of Education Abbas Halabi, reaffirmed USJ’s enduring commitment to academic excellence and societal impact despite Lebanon’s ongoing challenges. The celebrations continued with a back-to-school rally, fostering unity among students, instructors, and alumni, and culminated in a spectacular 3D mapping show illustrating USJ’s rich history and forward-looking vision.
Patronal Feast 2025: 150th Anniversary, Beacon of Hope
Every year, USJ’s patronal feast day reaffirms its Jesuit heritage and commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and ethical leadership. In 2025, this cherished tradition is even more meaningful as it coincides with the university’s 150th anniversary during which the university welcomed the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, Reverend Father Arturo Sosa, SJ. The celebration included a special tour of the Museum of Lebanese Prehistory and the Oriental Library, a solemn Mass at Saint Joseph Church broadcast live, and an exhibition showcasing USJ’s 150-year legacy.
Father Sosa’s visit extends to other USJ institutions, including Hôtel-Dieu de France and the Medical Sciences Campus, highlighting the University’s impact on healthcare and education. Father General also met with instructors, students, and alumni at the Innovation and Sports Campus.
The grand celebration at the Sciences and Technology Campus did not only mark the 150th anniversary of Saint Joseph University of Beirut, but is also a heartfelt reminder of the unwavering spirit that has guided this institution through decades of challenges and triumphs. USJ’s rich history reminds us of the resilience of those who came before us, who laid the foundations of an institution rooted in faith, humanism, and a commitment to excellence.
Jesuit Examen
As part of its commemorative initiatives, USJ embraced the Jesuit Examen, a spiritual and institutional self-evaluation process. This introspective journey reaffirms USJ’s dedication to fostering an educational environment rooted in knowledge, justice, and service to society.
The 150th anniversary logo
To celebrate our 150th anniversary, a new logo has been designed around the idea of roots extending into leaves, symbolizing the University’s mission: to guide each individual toward moral, intellectual, and professional excellence, embodying the principle of Magis – striving for more, for better.
As a symbol of USJ’s influence and openness to the world, the logo echoes the past while embracing the promises of the future. Our slogan is: ‘Our Roots, Our Future’. Our roots, 150 years young, are our pride. Our future, we will shape it together – for the excellence of our community, the bright future of our youth, and the survival of our Nation. The blue color in the logo symbolizes peace, serenity, and stability, while red stands as a witness to our courage and passion.
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