The American University of Madaba (AUM) celebrated its 11th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, September 19, 2025, under the patronage of His Eminence Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem. The ceremony was was attended by the Chairman and members of the Board of Trustees, the AUM President, the Deans’ Council, faculty and administrative staff, official and community representatives, as well as the families of the graduates. The celebration was held at the Cultural Palace in Al Hussein Youth City in Amman.

The ceremony commenced with the Jordanian national anthem.

In his remarks, His Eminence Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa emphasized that graduation day is a source of joy and pride for both students and their families. He noted that since its founding—when Pope Benedict XVI laid the cornerstone and His Majesty King Abdullah II officially inaugurated it—the American University of Madaba has become a beacon of knowledge and culture. He praised AUM’s high graduate employment rate of 95%, describing it as a remarkable achievement that reflects the quality of its education and programs.

The Cardinal also commended the efforts of the university’s administration, president, and Board of Trustees for their dedication to advancing the institution. He affirmed that AUM’s progress is a testament to Jordan’s security, stability, and wise leadership under His Majesty King Abdullah II and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. He further highlighted Jordan’s distinguished diplomacy as a model of peace and justice for the world.

In his address, AUM President Professor Mamoun Akroush welcomed the patron of the ceremony, in addition to the distinguished guests, and congratulated the graduates of the 11th cohort. He emphasized that the celebration also marks the ongoing journey of the American University of Madaba, built upon a clear vision. Professor Akroush highlighted that the past year was a milestone in the university’s history, as AUM received official candidacy for accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). This achievement confirms that AUM and its programs align with American higher education standards. At the same time, the State of New Hampshire renewed the university’s license as an American institution authorized to grant bachelor’s and master’s degrees—strengthening its identity locally and internationally.

Father Ashraf Al-Nimri offered prayers of blessing upon the graduates, wishing them success in becoming instruments of goodness, harmony, and love for humanity.

On behalf of the graduates, undergraduate student, Lana Tadros from the School of Architecture and Design, delivered a speech, expressing gratitude to the university and its faculty and staff who helped make this special day possible. She noted that the university provided the adequate environment to discover themselves, embark on the journey of growth and knowledge, and build a solid foundation they will carry with them wherever they go.

The graduates then proceeded to the stage, where they were each conferred their degrees in recognition of their academic achievements. The ceremony concluded with a spirit of pride and celebration, marking a memorable milestone for the graduates, their families, and the entire AUM community.

Congratulations Class of 2025!