On Tuesday, 10 February 2026, Bethlehem University welcomed a distinguished Canadian delegation in coordination with Bethlehem Municipality and the Mariam Foundation.

The delegation was received by Dr. Fadi Kattan, Executive Vice President of Bethlehem University, alongside Brother Jack Curran, Vice President for Advancement; Ms. Salam Awad, Dean of the Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences; and Mr. Yazan Al-Zubaidy, Director of Marketing and Communications.

Representing the Bethlehem Municipality were Ms. Carmen Ghattas, Director of Public Relations, and Public Relations Officers Ms. Miral Giacaman and Mr. Dimitrios Tafish.

The visiting group featured several prominent figures, including Mr. Shawki Fahel, Chair of the Canadian International Development Organization (CIDO) in Waterloo, Canada, who has spent decades bridging Canadian resources with Palestinian needs; world-renowned sculpture artist Mr. Timothy Schmalz, whose globally recognized works like “Homeless Jesus” advocate for social justice; and Mr. Mohammed Hamed, the Founder and CEO of the Mariam Foundation, which leads critical cancer care initiatives across Palestine.

Bridging borders through philanthropy

The visit served as a platform to align Bethlehem University’s academic vision with global development goals. Mr. Shawki Fahel, a Palestinian-Canadian entrepreneur and founder of CIDO, shared insights from his decades of work bridging Canadian resources with Palestinian needs. Under his leadership, CIDO has provided critical medical equipment to Palestinian hospitals and co-founded the Foundation for Palestinian Studies at the University of Waterloo—a legacy of practical impact that resonates with the University’s own commitment to education and empowerment.

Art as a Message of Justice

The presence of Mr. Timothy Schmalz added a profound cultural dimension to the discussions. Known for his provocative bronze sculptures that address spiritual and social justice themes, such as the famous “Homeless Jesus” and the migrant-focused “Angels Unawares” in St. Peter’s Square, Schmalz’s work mirrors the University’s dedication to human dignity and the pursuit of justice through creative expression.

The “Mariam Joy” Project: Compassion in Action

A highlight of the visit was the review of the Mariam Joy project, a flagship partnership between Bethlehem University and the Mariam Foundation. Under the guidance of the Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bethlehem University students act as daily companions for children battling cancer at hospitals like Augusta Victoria in Jerusalem.

“This initiative is a prime example of our mission in action,” noted University representatives. “It provides vital psychological support to young patients while offering our students a unique opportunity for service-based learning and financial aid.”