...Mr. Alan Kairouz was to be in charge of the Student Life for a period of one year as the highest in the hierarchy of Student Life.

The University had newly recruited Mr. Kairouz. It was to be his first year, all alone with marginal help from the University Sports Coordinator.

It was a gross challenge Mr. Kairouz had to overcome. Both the students as well as the staff were all new for him. The age difference between him and the students was not big enough to give a strong leverage on his behalf. Most of the staff and faculty had been at HU when Mr. Kairouz was a student at HU. This would create some practical difficulty for them to accept Alan as a colleague rather than an ex-graduate.

I remember we went on a camping before my departure with a group of HU students. My intention was to create a sort of a relation between the students and Mr. Kairouz. Indeed there was an unease regarding Mr. Alan’s recruitment as he was to be the first full-time non-Armenian Student Life Office member at Haigazian University.

Throughout the year we were in contact with each other. I was supportive to Alan – from the north end of Europe. Imagine how much support you could give from such a distance.

In June 2001 I came back to Haigazian and realized that Alan had won the battle in a better manner than I had expected.

During the past ten years I have come to witness several aspects of Mr. Kairouz.

Mr. Kairouz has been a kind individual, humane and an exemplary citizen, who avoids trouble, is positive and constructive in his approach, compromising for the sake of the public good.

When you want your venture or department to grow you need people you can rely on. You need stability not stalemate, firmness and solidity, rather than rigidity. You need people who can dream and visualize. You need people who may work towards materializing a vision they are a part of. Unless your colleagues are not very good, unless they are not very competitive you will not make progress no matter what effort you make.

The past decade of Student Life stand witness of the huge gap that exists between the HU Student Life of 2001 and that of 2011. It goes without saying that a lot of the progress and success we made at Student Life had a direct reason: Alan’s presence.

Alan has been a strong pillar of Student Life. His spirit has been on the same wavelength as that of HU.

In life in certain cases you end up having colleagues who come to office, do their job i.e. whatever is given to them to work on and leave. I take pride in asserting the fact that Mr. Alan Kairouz did not work like that. He did not come to office to do whatever he is supposed to do and leave. On the contrary he is proactive, and positively aggressive. He is innovative and observant. He took the initiative to improve, upgrade and come up with new projects to avoid stalemate and repetition. This work ethic and work approach is part and parcel of Mr. Alan’s value system. Alan helped me in setting the work standard of Student Life.

I have learned that in order for your job to develop and grow you have to make it a part of you and to put a part of yourself in your job. Mr. Alan used to leave his family and go on camping or mountain hiking, or a biking trip, or an extremes Club overnight caving and so many other activities with the HU students.

Indeed Mr. Kairouz made HU students bike from Tripoli to Beirut and to Sour, walk from Beirut to Anjar, climb the black peak  and for so many times!

Actually, only if you put your heart and thoughts in your work you end up organizing Orphans Fairs, children’s vaccination, blood donation, or renovating a school in a refugee camp or in a remote area of north Lebanon.

One cannot squeeze what Alan did during the last ten years at HU in a short recommendation. An equally impressive performance has been his interaction with students. The HU students were bonded to him. He was a true friend and help to many. One may think that at Student Life the athletes would go to Sahag, the girls would refer to Peggy, the Arabs would talk to Alan and the Armenians to me. I am happy to say that in multicultural HU the picture is not so. Alan had a large number of Armenian students, athletes, and female students who were closer to him than to any other member of the Student Life.

Alan has been a civic citizen at HU who made great effort in shaping the better citizens of Lebanon, and in better citizens I mean students who would clean up Hamra Street, or Bourj Hammoud or the seashore.

Alan inspired several students in different clubs. Some of his babies at HU are the Extremes, the Desert Streams, the Environmental, the Kickboxing club… to name a few.

I thank God that I had a wonderful colleague, called Alan Kairouz and worked with him for the last ten years.

As we are almost at the end of the year 2015, I spent some time reflecting on all the activities that I was part of as UPF Lebanon representative.

Among the highlights of the year were the special projects we did together with the LAU students, be it a Family Festival or distribution events of goods, for the refugee families.

All of this would not have been possible, without the amazing assistance of Mr. Alan Kairouz, as LAU’s  Senior  Program  Coordinator and Dean of Students Office.

I found  that Mr. Alan is a man of great integrity who is truly gifted to inspire the students in volunteerism and encourage them to give their best.

Further I see him as real visionary who is very proactive for the greater good. He indeed is setting a great example for the young people, especially the students from LAU,  that will enable them to be also great contributors in strengthening our nation.

I feel truly honored to have had the chance to work with Mr. Alan Kairouz and I am looking forward to our cooperation in new volunteer projects, in the coming year 2016, together with the student volunteers from LAU.

Thank you.

With kind Regards,

Alan was the "Big Brother" who always inspired us to achieve our big dreams. He empowered us to reach our goals. He supported and directed us in the right path.

Alan didn't create followers, but leaders.

In a harsh world it's always good to have an elder brother who looks out for you. Sincerity and an assisting hand  always when most needed. I have noticed that Alan does not extend his hand to family members only, but to anyone who  may need it, without requesting  any recompensation, not even a thank you.

With his warm, kind and respectful approach you will find yourself speaking to Alan with comfort and relaxation, content that what is said will be persevered only in his heart.

I have known Alan to be a committed and honest, attentive hard worker whose ambitions are driven by his self realization that we can achieve more than  what we already have. The constant self motivated search for new opportunities and ideas.

The world would be by far a better place with more people like Alan, despite he being sometimes a constant pain in the @$$.

Your little brother

Kind, helpful, understanding, and patient are the words that come to mind when asked about Alan Kairouz.

He is an honest person. He always tells the truth even if it isn't pleasant to hear. He tries his best to tell the truth without hurting anyone's feelings.

He is a person who is willing to help anyone that needs it. He is the supportive type who is always present by someone's side because he wants to be and not because he is asked to be.

" A pretty face gets old, a nice body will change, but a good person will always be a good individual. "

I have known Alan for the past 27 years. We began as friends and eventually ended up in marriage. Alan is a man like no other. If you are wondering why, scroll down the list of character traits below that Alan possess to find out:

1. The CARE GIVER like no other.


2. The HARD FOCUSED WORKER who gets things done.


3. The DREAMER with humongous dreams.


4. The ACHIEVER who puts his mind into it and gets it done.


5. The PLANNER who accounts for every detail.


6. The CREATIVE who thinks differently.


7. The STURDY whom others can depend on during tough times.


8. The TOUGH GUY when he needs to be.


9. The PROTECTOR who goes out of his way to ensure other’s safety.


10. The SUPPORTIVE HUSBAND who is there by my side whenever I need him.


11. The APPRECIATIVE who shows gratitude on daily basis.


12. The AMAZING DAD who cares a lot to make time to teach his kids life skills, religion, play games or just simply have fun together.


13. They HANDYMAN who is knowledgeable and dependable.


14. The CURIOUS whose brain is always busy in search of new adventures and learnings.


15. The ATHLETIC who is self-disciplined, works hard and maintains high standards.


16. The SELF-DISCIPLINED who uses this skill in many areas in his life and surely it yields him lots of success.


17. The HEALTHY who looks after his well-being and makes sure he treats himself well.


18. The THOUGHTFUL who studies every word before he utters it.


19. The GENTLEMAN who is a rare gem these days.


20. The RESPONSIBLE who sees through his duties.


21. The INTELLIGENT and CLEVER who uses those skills for the better of humanity.


22. The ULTIMATE SURVIVOR who will own his own program and teach the world what he knows.


23. The INSIGHTFUL who is observant and shrewd.


24. The WISE with oceans of knowledge to share with the world.


25. The GENEROUS who makes sure others have before he takes.


26. The SMART who knows what, where, how and when to act.


27. The LOVING whose love is so abundant and strong.


28. The INNOVATIVE INVENTOR who ingeniously solves problems.


29. The CREATIVE ENGINEER who could not care less if he has the degree and does the work like a pro.


30. The MENTOR who finds a higher purpose in guiding others to find their light.


31. The COACH who meticulously gives advice whenever he could.


32. The COUNSELOR whom others can confine in and share their feelings with openly, and honestly.


33. The TRUSTWORTHY who is loyal and dependable.


34. The FORGIVING with a pure heart and soul.


35. The HUMBLE SOUL who prefers discrete actions at all times.


36. The PATIENT like no other.


37. The BRAVE and COURAGEOUS who defies norms just to do the right thing.

 

Simply put, if there is a word to sum all of the above, it would be that Alan Kairouz is a:

Legend

 

 

Time management, completing high quality projects with little resources are just some skills that Alan seemed to master throughout his life.

I have never seen a more determined man so far, and even though we have different career's I can still learn a lot from him, in fact every meeting has its own impact.

In brief he is one of the few people I consider idols, he motivates me in every way possible.

Alan is the kind of person that you can trust your life with, blindfolds on. Everyone at least needs one Alan in his or her life, someone who you know will always be there when you need support and help, someone you can trust more than you trust yourself. I would jump off a plane if he is in charge of the parachute.

Alan is the ear to your inner voices, a sounding board to reflect on yourself and come to your senses. He is the reality check when you are gone off track and the conscience signaling on the background, guiding you back to safe shores. When confused, just ask yourself, "what would Alan do?" And you'll know what the right thing to do is.

You can trust him with your darkest deepest ugliest secrets and you can bet with your life that he will never even hint to knowing anything about it to a soul. There will come a day where even you would forget that you ever told him about them.

Alan takes care of everyone around him. If you are ever blessed to be on his radar, you are insured for life. He would be helping you without you even knowing it. Even when you think he is far, you can be sure that in one way or another, he is making your life better in one of his own magical discrete ways.

I can talk about Alan for days in a row but no matter what I say, I wouldn't even be close to describing what he is for me. All I can say is I must have done something good in life to deserve a big brother such as Alan and I pray that I'd never have to go a day without having him present a phone call or a message away.

I have worked with Mr. Alain Kairouz on several occasions.

During those times that I found Mr. Kairouz to be very efficient and helpful. I could always count on him to pitch in where needed.

Mr. Kairouz is a very determined, hard working, and decent person. he is well equipped to grow challenges that he is present with.

I have known, Mr Alain Kairouz, since the start of my undergraduate studies in 2002 at Haigazian University.

A humble, honest, open-minded, and ideological person that's what i can remember of him to name a few.

I used to pop in into his office for quick chats or catch ups despite his tight schedule and zest to provide the best for students on campus. I always went back for advice on matters relating to my university life or future career plans, and he would never fail to put my thoughts into practice. His good rapport and engaging manner with students and faculty members added a perfect touch at every event.

Mr Alain combines positivity with practicality, leading to progress for any university life.

Personally, I was very lucky to have met Mr. Alain for i learnt from him to transfer my optimistic and energetic attitude to people in my work place.

Thanks to, Alan Kairouz, a mind challenger with high moral standards.

Sincerely,

If someone asked me what it meant to persevere, I would think back to Kilimanjaro. You were sick and yet somehow you managed to remain positive for the team and get to the peak.

You taught us so many things just by being an example. You would give up your blanket because you thought someone needed it more. You would be there for everyone to guide them but at the same time you would let them figure things out on their own.

If anyone asked me what an open door policy is, I would think Alan Kairouz because never once in my 5 years at university have i been to your office and found you too busy to say hi. By just passing by to greet you, i end up learning a lot of cool things. I always left your office with one more piece of information or one needed piece of advise.

You have honestly, helped a lot of people at LAU and i know this because I'm a student and i get to hear what other students think of you.

Without your encouragement, i would never have gone to Kilimanjaro, i would have missed a once in a lifetime experience and due to that encouragement i found my voice to say i want to do this. I found the part of me that is ready for any challenge. For that I thank you.

In short, Alan Kairouz is a leader that knows what compassion means. A leader that leads by example and brings the best out of those around him. He is also a person that knows how to never give up and when it is best to let go. He is a mentor, a philanthropist but most of all a great friend.

Best,

If i start to talk about you, i would need another life time to describe you.
You're the most  loyal, dedicated,unselfish and caring person I have ever known.
You fight for what you believe is right. (Although it's not always right.)
you have principals and rules that you abide no matter what.
You're the tough macho brother, but in the inside you're extremely sensitive.
You handle responsibility with all dedication.
You have difficulty in showing emotions but you get all mushy.
I don't think, no I'm sure if i searched up , down, left & right there is no brother like you!
I am blessed to have you in my life. You are my armor, my strength. The person i look up to whenever i need anything.I mean ANYTHING.

Love you big bro,

After being lost in the woods (which apparently turned out to be tiger territory) yesterday for about two hours, hiking for 13 hours, being chased after by dogs four times, hiking in an area where flashfloods and landslides are happening daily and doing this all alone (and with the dorectional help of some friendly villagers), I feel incredibly proud and accomplished. This experience has been amazing. A big thank you is due to #SurvivalTeamLAU and the big man Alan Keirouz.

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You are a bright motivational person, full of thoughts and ideas, full of positive energy, aiming to change everything around you to the better. Well oriented and ambitious, with great potential and thrive to achieve your goals.

You are trustworthy and honest.

You are very calm even during the most tough times.

You have a kind, loving, and modest personality.

You are self-disciplined and always work by the book.

Surely, your self-progress does not have limits and are becoming closer and closer to achieving your dreams by the day.

Best of luck!

To me… Alan Kairouz is my “second self”. I need not write, say or add anything to that because that says it all. This encompasses and goes beyond being just a friend and even a brother.

 

 

I’ve known Alan for more than 25 years now. What words would best describe him?

 

 

Let’s start with the rarest elements of all on planet earth:

 

 

-          Honest, Trustworthy, and Loyal. I trust Alan with my life, my family, my work. What’s left? Again, that says it all.

 

 

-          Hard/Smart Working. One of the hardest working people I know, and he does it in a smart way (adapting, improvising, efficient, effective), always having the objective and end result in mind.

 

 

-          Perseverant and persistent. If Alan sets his mind to accomplish something, just consider it done, whether if it would end up taking him 10 minutes, 10 hours or 10 years. It doesn’t matter. It’ll get done. I think his physical fitness and stamina, being a martial artist, survivalist, 10-in-1 fitness expert does seem to help a lot.

 

 

-          Leader/Mentor/Coach, and a truly responsible one indeed. Two things I’d like to mention here. first, Alan is patient in dealing with others.
Second, he listens very carefully to others before making informed decisions.

 

 

-          Passionate for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain climbing and the ever-growing “survival” domain.

(Thank you Alan for all the great places you take us. You always bring a sense of security when you’re with us because you sure know what you’re doing!)

 

 

Last but not least:

 

-          Intellectual, physical and spiritual. He's one of the few people I know that always work on, nurture and cultivate this golden triangle.

 

 

Thank you AK – dear friend, brother, “2nd self” - for everything.

Dear Alan,

I owe you so much for believing in me and for giving me a great opportunity again!!

It wouldn't have been so successful without your truthful support.

Thank you from all my heart,

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I worked with Mr. Alan Kairouz for about three years, as part of my university scholarship program in Haigazian University, Beirut.

Mr. Kairouz's main characteristics and strength are his organizational skills, his positive attitude, and his peaceful personality. He is a true gentleman who can handle pressure quietly, and it seems impossible to disturb or irritate him.

If I ever had a chance to work with Mr. Alan Kairouz again, I will be honored!

Dear Mr. Alain,

Unfortunately you are the only Student Life officer who was not the supervisor of any of the clubs I was a member of. Yet, despite this, i feel like I know you well, and I highly appreciate your efforts and commitment to make this university a better place for the students.

I knew you more during my last year, and especially during the student of the year campaigns. Thus, I than you for your help and encouragement.

If you ask me what will I remember about you once I graduate, I tell you that I will always recall your kindness and respect towards me, and above all, I will remember your sense of humor which always put a smile on my face everytime I stepped into your office.

Thank you,

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A wise compassionate leader 🙂

Dear Alan,

I just want you to know that I am very thankful for everything you have done for me.

You Pushed me to try new things that I never did before and I have grown so much this year as a result.

Your also introduced me to so many places in Lebanon that were so beautiful, and I know I would have never gotten to see them...

For example, caving and tree planting and renovating the school in Akkar.

You see our potential and you believe in us and it makes a great impact on our lives, so.... thank you!!!

Wish you all the best....

 

 

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Alan keyrouz is one of the most courageous men i have ever known.He is a wise gentleman who happens to have a pure and strong heart.
He never gives up when he wants to achieve something, even if that something was risking his life; he always finds ways to reach his goals, and that's, what makes Alan a powerful survivor/warrior.

 

Reeda Marwan Loutfi

I had the pleasure of knowing Alan during my four university years at Haigazian. During of which, I have enrolled in a philanthropic club under his direct supervision at the student life office.

Alan was talented, organized, result oriented and had a great leader personality of whom everyone turned to for personal advice and task guidance. He is a good friend, and whether as a team member or a leader, he effortlessly will prove to be a significant asset.

I worked closely with Alan when he was the assistant director of the student life office during my four years at Jaigazian University.

Alan was always ready to help the students in their academic matters, giving them advice on how to follow up on their courses, as well as their activities, in terms of aiding them in planning, logistics, organization and implementation. He was the leader of many important activities, proving through his presence how dedicated and how skillful he is.

I believe working with Alan taught me how to coordinate and juggle tasks in an organized manner, while pursuing excellence in every step sought.

The first thing comes to my mind when I think of you (Alan) is the level of comfort I felt with each time I entered your office. You helped me always think and find answers to my queries, you set my feet on the right path.

You're one of the most special person that had kept a profound influence in my life! You've helped me look at things in a different manner and opened my eyes to many ignored truths.

Your influence is something I would carry with me for the rest of my life!

I've known Alan for 18 years and I can easily say that he is the most selfless person I have ever met. He exhumes positivity the minute he enters a room and has the outstanding quality of both giving and inspiration.

He inspired me to do many things and motivated me to others. Alan is also very wise and is extremely knowledgeable of various topics. Personally, He fascinates me in his way of thinking whether complex or simple depending on the situation.

In addition to that, he is always on the lookout for an adventure; he loves testing his limits just to see how far he can go.

Alan owns a vision, is hardworking, and driven by deep moral values.

While writing these words, I had the sense that these are what I really like to see in myself.

From the bottom of my heart, all the respect to you.

I wish you all the best!

 

I have worked with Mr. Kairouz for a few years during my studies at Haigazian University. I was involved in a few clubs, that he was directly supervising.

Mr. Kairouz had his door open to students all the time. He truly excelled at his job, and led people well.

I do not remember a time when someone complained about an issue going on with Mr. Kairouz. He indeed was on good terms with his students, staff and faculty.

Alan is a caring person whose always there when  needed when down.He's also very honest stands and speaks out wht he strongly believes. He doesn't have a second face what u see is wht u get. As for generosity he always put others before him.

Always thinks about the needy and the weak. Last but not least, he is someone u can rely on someone u can trust to help until ur last bit. He's someone who'll always be there for you and he'll hold ur hand help u encourage u and never let go just like a father.

More than a friend , he is like a brother.

I've known Alan Kairouz for a few years, but it was a pleasant period where I met an energetic and goal -oriented person.

You are a determined and motivated person with great leadership abilities.

Alan is a person of strong will, patience, and determination.

He is a person who loves to help , advise and develop "the other".

Respectful and enthusiastic.

These are only additional to your many qualities as a sincere person.