AUB Community : Office of President – August 2024

Dear members of the AUB community,

The American University of Beirut (AUB) and the AUB community deeply regret the loss of one of the most respected, iconic political figures of Lebanon, former Prime Minister Salim El-Hoss (BBA ’52, MA ’57), who passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at the age of 94.

Dr. El-Hoss served his country for many, trying decades, leaving a significant mark on Lebanese politics while earning the respect of a diverse population as “the conscience of Lebanon” as he was often referred to. He served as Lebanon’s prime minister five times between 1976 and 2000, as minister of education, and was a long-time member of Parliament representing Beirut. 

Born in Beirut on December 20, 1929, El-Hoss is an AUB graduate (BBA with distinction ’52, MA ’57) and received his PhD in economics and business from Indiana University in ’61. A trained economist who spent much of his career in academia and banking until the 1970s, he taught at AUB, primarily as an associate professor of business administration, and served as a trustee since 1991 and trustee emeritus since 2001.

Dr. El-Hoss authored numerous books on economics and political science and also served as chairman of the Lebanese Banking Control Commission. In 2005, he participated in the “anti-imperialist” Axis for Peace conference organized by Réseau Voltaire.

Past business posts include president of the Banking Supervision Committee, Lebanon; chairman of the board of Banque Arabe et Internationale d’investissement, Paris; and chairman of the board and general manager of the National Bank for Industrial Development, Lebanon. El-Hoss was also a member of the Palestine International Institute. Until his final years, he served as chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arab Organization for Combating Corruption and vice chair of the Board of Trustees for Arab Democracy Foundation. 

Known for his ethical diplomacy, competence, tenacity, and strategic insight into public affairs, El-Hoss was widely credited as a determined technocrat and rare statesman in a country marked by political and sectarian divisions. His humanism and professionalism were honored by AUB in the establishment of the Salim El-Hoss Bioethics and Professionalism Program at AUB.

Dr. El-Hoss left an unforgettable, treasured impact on Lebanon, the lives of his many loved ones, and all whom knew him. Our deepest condolences go to his daughter, Ms. Wadad Hoss (BA, ’80); his grandson, Dr. Salim Rahhal; his family; and all who love him. Both Lebanon and AUB will cherish the memory of the man who served, taught, and fully exemplified citizenship and conscientiousness, regardless of personal interest and despite all trying circumstances, our Dr. Salim El-Hoss. 

Best regards,

Fadlo R. Khuri, MD | President