100/100: The Full Grade (Audio) https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/ 100/100: The Full Grade is a show launched in 2024 during LAU’s centennial anniversary. Renowned talk show host Zaven (BA ’92) interviews distinguished LAU alumni including stars, public figures, notable personalities and achievers in various fields. They discuss their accomplishments, career paths, and how their education and experiences at LAU have influenced their lives. ar ©2026 Lebanese American University no Lebanese American University Main LAU Website episodic false https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/audio-feed.php urn:uuid:8b716c0c-a6cf-5159-a993-3772f92585ea urn:uuid:8b716c0c-a6cf-5159-a993-3772f92585ea Lebanese American University lauwebsite@gmail.com Yasser Abdul Malak https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/yasser-abdul-malak/ full 21 Yasser Abdul Malak From Abou Ibrahim’s Nescafé van at LAU’s Upper Gate to leading Nestlé across 19 countries, Yasser Abdul Malak’s journey is one of determination, resilience, and gratitude.

Nearly three decades after graduation, the Chairman and CEO of Nestlé in the Middle East and North Africa returns to LAU for an emotional walk down memory lane, revisiting the people and places that shaped his university years. Among them is Abou Ibrahim, whose legendary coffee van brought generations of LAU students together and whose legacy lives on through his sons, featured in a touching surprise arranged by Zaven. From driving his father’s truck to help pay for his education and struggling to make ends meet, to earning recognition among Forbes Middle East’s top CEOs, Yasser reflects on a remarkable journey shaped by perseverance, curiosity, and the ability to embrace life’s unexpected turns.

In this episode of 100/100: The Full Grade, Yasser joins Zaven for a heartfelt conversation about leadership, Lebanese resilience, the personal sacrifices behind success, and the importance of giving back to the people and places that helped shape who we become.

For Yasser, LAU can be summed up in one word: gratitude.

A story that reminds us that success is not always about following a perfect plan, but about how we embrace opportunities, overcome challenges, and never forget where it all began.

This episode was published on October 15, 2026.

]]> Thu, 15 Oct 2026 16:48:13 +0300 00:24:53false https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/yasser-abdul-malak/ Sheikha Hissah https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/sheikha-hissah/ full 20 Sheikha Hissah In this episode, Sheikha Hissah shares vivid memories of her years at Beirut College for Women and of the Lebanon she still considers home. Encouraged by her father, HH Sheikh Saad Abdulah Salem Al-Sabah, to pursue her education in Beirut, she experienced student life without royal privilege. She rode the bus like everyone else, learned to depend on herself, and discovered the confidence that comes from earning one’s own path. Having spent nearly 14 years in Lebanon, she remembers Beirut during its golden era as a center of education, culture and openness. Her years at BCW became a defining chapter in her life and helped shape the independent and pioneering woman she would later become. She went on to break barriers in Kuwait as a diplomat and businesswoman and to champion women’s participation in business across the Arab world through the Council of Arab Businesswomen. Her message to today’s generation is simple and powerful, echoing the words of her father: money and titles may come and go, but education remains your greatest asset in life. A conversation about Beirut, resilience, women’s advancement, and the lifelong impact of an education that taught her not only what to know, but who she could become.

]]> Tue, 15 Sep 2026 12:26:11 +0300 00:15:32false https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/sheikha-hissah/ Hady Sy https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/hady-sy/ full 19 Hady Sy In this episode, Zaven sits down with Hady Sy, a multicultural artist born in Beirut and raised between Lebanon, Senegal, and France.

Having studied Communication Arts at LAU, Hady reflects on a rich and formative experience shaped by photography, theater, and inspiring mentors, despite the challenges of war that forced him to leave.

At the core of his journey is a powerful message born from a self-portrait taken at the Gulbenkian Theater: “Get out of the box.”

Today, his work explores humanity beyond numbers, challenging how we reduce lives to statistics in war and on social media, and reminding us of one simple truth: We are all the same inside.

]]> Mon, 10 Aug 2026 10:00:22 +0300 00:23:24false https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/hady-sy/ Zak Kassas https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/zak-kassas/ full 18 Zak Kassas Zak Kassas (BE Electrical Engineering ’01), aka “Mr. GPS,” joins us to share how he changed the way the world views navigation, and why he’s now building what comes next.

In this episode, he introduces alternative navigation systems powered by signals from Starlink and other opportunistic sources, turning almost any signal into a positioning system and democratizing navigation worldwide. He tackles big questions about privacy and global security, asking whether this technology makes the world safer or more dangerous, and predicts that within 5 to 10 years we will see deeper integration between humans and robotics. He also reflects on his moving reunion with former LAU professor Dr. Samer Saab, the mentor who shaped his path, and shares why he proudly mentors LAU interns and PhD students, confident in their ability to compete globally.

From GPS to “Alternative GPS,” this is a conversation about innovation, impact, and the future of navigation.

This episode was published on February 17, 2026.

]]> Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:03:56 +0300 00:28:13false https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/zak-kassas/ President Joseph Aoun https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/president-joseph-aoun/ full 17 President Joseph Aoun LAU’s alumni podcast launches its second season with a special episode featuring Lebanese President Joseph Aoun (BA ’07), an alumnus of the Political Science and International Affairs program.

In this episode, President Aoun reflects on his childhood, values, career journey, and years at LAU, and engages with questions from students of the Debating Sustainability class about their hopes for Lebanon’s future. He also shares how LAU has been a cornerstone for his entire family, from his wife to his son and daughter, both of whom are also proud alumni.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the title, highlighting the enduring role of education, family, and community in shaping a leader, while celebrating LAU’s lasting impact across generations.

This episode was published on December 29, 2025.

]]> Mon, 29 Dec 2025 16:19:13 +0300 00:32:25false https://www.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/president-joseph-aoun/ Mayssoun Azzam https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/mayssoun-azzam/ full 16 Mayssoun Azzam Mayssoun Azzam, a distinguished journalist and media personality, holds her university days close to her heart. The vibrant student movement and rich culture of free speech at the Lebanese American University profoundly shaped her character and professional outlook, especially amidst the intense academic challenges she faced. She fondly remembers the dormitories at LAU as a haven of friendship and camaraderie. Looking back, Azzam encourages current students to seize every opportunity to excel, underscoring the importance of staying true to and defending the principles of journalism as the cornerstone of a meaningful career.

Episode originally scheduled for release in October 2024. Published on February 19, 2025.

]]> Tue, 18 Feb 2025 23:38:43 +0300 00:14:01false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/mayssoun-azzam/ Octavia Nasr https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/octavia-nasr/ full 15 Octavia Nasr Octavia Nasr, an LAU Communication Arts graduate of 1987, is a Lebanese-American and a multiple award-winning journalist. She began her career as a war correspondent in Lebanon before moving to CNN, where she became the network’s senior editor for Middle East affairs. She emphasizes that LAU taught her to accept and love others despite their differences, as the university was a diverse mix. Her advice to students is to build strong relationships, as these connections are what endure.

Episode originally scheduled for release in October 2024. Published on February 12, 2025.

]]> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:49:14 +0300 00:18:47false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/octavia-nasr/ Joe Farah https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/joe-farah/ full 13 Joe Farah Joe Farah, a 1993 Interior Design graduate of LAU, is renowned for designing the Virgin Megastore, MEA buildings, airplanes, and private jets. At his company, he employs only women, emphasizing his commitment to female empowerment and their excellence. Farah values LAU’s mandatory public speaking course, noting its importance for students’ social development in an era dominated by screens. He also appreciates LAU architecture professors’ deep knowledge of Lebanese architecture and arches, which greatly enriched his education.

Episode originally scheduled for release in October 2024. Published on January 29, 2025.

]]> Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:15:29 +0300 00:17:38false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/joe-farah/ Tania Kassis https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/tania-kassis/ full 12 Tania Kassis Tania Kassis, a 2003 Business (Marketing) LAU graduate, is a renowned pop-opera French-Lebanese singer and internationally acclaimed soprano. She self-deprecates that her graduation with honors doesn’t show, but she was indeed an honors student. Kassis fondly recalls the university’s cultural diversity and open environment, which inspired her spontaneous creation of the acclaimed song “Ave Maria.” She expressed pride in being an LAU alumna and admiration for the Beirut campus’ beauty and greenery, a stunning oasis at the heart of the city.

Episode originally scheduled for release in late September 2024. Published on January 22, 2025.

]]> Mon, 20 Jan 2025 14:59:11 +0300 00:17:04false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/tania-kassis/ Elie Habib https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/elie-habib/ full 11 Elie Habib Elie Habib, a trailblazer in technology from SMS innovations to Anghami Music, embodies the belief that work becomes one’s identity. He takes immense pride in his achievements with Anghami and OSN. From a young age, he was captivated by computers and programming, building and selling his first software at just 16. His entrepreneurial spirit and drive to create something from nothing have defined his career.

With Anghami now generating nearly $100 million in annual revenue, Habib hopes to leave a legacy of innovation. To LAU students, especially aspiring entrepreneurs, he advises embracing independence and valuing the lessons of consumer psychology and adaptability. He recalls how his university experiences, including a memorable software project, were pivotal, how he was supported by teachers who believed in him and opened doors to new opportunities. Habib’s advice emphasizes that learning extends beyond the classroom and that creativity and perseverance are crucial in shaping one’s path.

This episode was published on September 20, 2024.

]]> Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:28:59 +0300 00:15:50false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/elie-habib/ Rima Karaki https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/rima-karaki/ full 10 Rima Karaki Rima Karaki, a business computer graduate turned media personality, reflects fondly on her university days, where she balanced witty mischief with character development. With a degree in finance and a secure job at the Central Bank, she made the bold choice to leave the stability of her career to chase her dream of becoming a media figure. This leap led to a life-changing journey, earning international recognition for shedding light on critical societal issues like human rights, corruption, and poverty through her bold TV programs.

Beyond her media career, she is also an author, public speaker, and media trainer, inspiring future journalists and students alike.

The most beautiful thing about her, she believes, isn’t being ranked first on any list but rather her inherent value that transcends rankings. When asked about her dreams now, she humorously replies that nothing has changed — she still feels like she has a class to run to and is late for it.

Episode released on September 11, 2024.

]]> Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0300 00:21:07false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/rima-karaki/ Petra Khoury https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/petra-khoury/ full 9 Petra Khoury Dr. Petra Khoury, an LAU Pharmacy graduate of 2004 and Pharm.D. graduate of 2005, is the Global Health and Care Director at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies – IFRC. She advised and led the fight against COVID-19 in one of the most resource-depleted countries in the world as the Public Health Advisor to the Prime Minister. She is proud of her LAU degree, which she found excellent and well-prepared her for further studies at Harvard. She discusses the long-term effects of COVID-19, such as headaches from long COVID, and warns that the next pandemic could occur within the next 100 years.

Episode released on September 4, 2024.

]]> Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0300 00:19:30false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/petra-khoury/ Nada Ghazal https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/nada-ghazal/ full 8 Nada Ghazal Nada Ghazal, a 1992 Advertising Design graduate of LAU, is an award-winning jewelry designer whose creations are known for their timeless beauty and soulful essence. LAU instilled in her a profound sense of freedom in expression, which became the heart and soul of her brand. The memory of walking to LAU on crisp mornings, with the scent of the earth after the first rain, remains vivid and dear to her. She envisions LAU as a precious gold stone, symbolizing its lasting value and brilliance. Nada dreams of LAU leading the way in jewelry design education. A deeply touching moment in her journey was when the Alumni Relations Office visited to celebrate her achievements, making her feel genuinely appreciated and proud of her alma mater.

Episode released on August 28, 2024.

]]> Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0300 00:19:23false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/nada-ghazal/ Talal Jurdi https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/talal-jurdi/ full 7 Talal Jurdi Talal Jurdi is a well-known Lebanese actor by profession, not by major. LAU is deeply embedded in his soul, remaining a cherished part of his life long after his graduation in 1994, as he stayed there until 2000. To him, it will always be BUC (Beirut University College), the name it held during his time, where all his fond memories were made. BUC was a vibrant hub for everyone, especially for theater students who trained there. The BUC Theater Festival was the heart of the Arab theater scene, drawing the best and most influential theater personalities. This university was a true cultural sanctuary, an achievement not easily matched. The theater itself and the dedicated drama teachers at BUC shaped him profoundly, enriching his education and culture, and making him who he is today.

Episode released on August 21, 2024.

]]> Tue, 20 Aug 2024 23:18:04 +0300 00:20:07false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/talal-jurdi/ Zeina Yazigi https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/zeina-yazigi/ full 6 Zeina Yazigi Zeina Yazigi is a renowned Syrian journalist and television news anchor. Inspired by a deep passion for amplifying voices and engaging in meaningful conversations about daily people matters and societal issues, she pursued journalism at LAU. She credits her LAU education for preparing her so well that she now stands among the 100 strongest women in the Middle East. The vibrant and challenging atmosphere of Beirut played a crucial role in shaping her understanding of complex political and social landscapes, as well as in discovering her true self. Zeina hopes that her children will one day experience the same transformative education at LAU. Yazigi fondly recalls being featured on the cover of the student magazine as “the Syrian girl at LAU,” a testament to the open-minded and supportive community she cherished. Her campus life was rich with trips, theater, cultural events, and vigorous debates, all of which deepened her connection to Beirut. LAU’s nurturing of like-minded graduates has left a lasting impact on her, making her proud to be part of its legacy.

Episode released on August 14, 2024.

]]> Tue, 13 Aug 2024 23:24:36 +0300 00:16:43false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/zeina-yazigi/ Hassan Kabbani https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/hassan-kabbani/ full 5 Hassan Kabbani Hassan Kabbani, an LAU Business (Marketing) graduate of 1993, is a seasoned executive in the telecom and technology industry with over 30 years of experience in strategic planning, operations management, business development, and transformation. He predicts that by 2025, new technology will ensure global internet coverage. Reflecting on his student days, he emphasizes the importance of student clubs and public service activities, highlighting his impactful work with the Red Cross as a student and the lasting influence of extracurricular activities on personal and professional growth.

Episode released on August 7, 2024.

]]> Wed, 07 Aug 2024 07:26:12 +0300 00:20:42false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/hassan-kabbani/ Aziza Sbaity https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/aziza-sbaity/ full 4 Aziza Sbaity Aziza Sbaity, a 2012 Business (Management) graduate of LAU, is a celebrated Lebanese athlete and track star, specializing as a sprinter. Despite facing physical and psychological obstacles, Sbaity persevered, drawing on her inner strength. Her achievements have sparked hope and inspiration in the athletic world and beyond. LAU enriched her culturally, and though she has faced and continues to face racism and gender-related challenges, these experiences only strengthened her resolve. She chose not to let racial prejudice define her journey, recognizing it as a fleeting chapter in her life. In her athletic community, everyone stands as equals.

Episode released on July 31, 2024.

]]> Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:45:05 +0300 00:19:48false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/aziza-sbaity/ Rima Maktabi https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/rima-maktabi/ full 3 Rima Maktabi Rima Maktabi, an LAU Communication Arts graduate of 2000 and International Affairs graduate of 2003, is a Lebanese TV presenter and award-winning journalist. In this episode, she proudly shares how her LAU education has taken her around the world, including lecturing at Yale. She highlights the quality of education, the diverse political and religious views, and the personalized care for students she found at LAU.

Episode released on July 23, 2024.

]]> Tue, 23 Jul 2024 18:00:00 +0300 00:21:07false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/rima-maktabi/ Carmen Bsaibes https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/episode-artwork-carmen-bsaibes/ full 2 Carmen Bsaibes Carmen Bsaibes, an LAU Communication Arts graduate of 2011, is a Lebanese actress and director known for “Bride of Beirut” (2019), “Eugenie Nights” (2018), and “Morine” (2018). She highlights her favorite building — Safadi Fine Arts — and cherishes the strong preparation she received thanks to the theater faculty at LAU. Carmen advises students to make the most of their university days.

Episode released on July 16, 2024.

]]> Tue, 16 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0300 00:17:43false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/episode-artwork-carmen-bsaibes/ Bassel Jalaleddine https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/episode-artwork-bassel-jalaleddine/ full 1 Bassel Jalaleddine Bassel Jalaleddine, an LAU Computer Engineering graduate of the class of 2017, is an ambitious entrepreneur who rose “from zero to here” and made the 2023 Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 list. He is passionate about leveraging technology and AI to revolutionize education. In this episode, Bassel shares his experiences at LAU and discusses his groundbreaking AI program, which he believes will transform the educational landscape. He credits LAU’s esteemed reputation for helping his program gain serious attention.

Bassel also reflects on his internship at Anghami, highlighting how his connection with fellow alum Elie Habib, co-founder of Anghami and current LAU trustee, played a crucial role in fostering a strong professional relationship and seamless collaboration.

Episode released on July 10, 2024.

]]> Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:53:54 +0300 00:19:07false https://100.lau.edu.lb/the-full-grade/episode-artwork-bassel-jalaleddine/