Bethlehem University has been proudly represented by Prof. Iman Saca, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Ms. Paola Handal; and Ms. Tina Hazboun, Co-Directors of the Academic Innovation Hub, in the 2026 Rome Program, the International Lasallian University Leadership Program coordinated by the International Association of Lasallian Universities (IALU).

As part of the program, participants were received at the Dicastery for Culture and Education at the Vatican, where they engaged in a meaningful dialogue with Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça and members of his team on the future of Catholic and Lasallian higher education in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

The gathering brought together 46 university leaders and educators representing 30 Lasallian institutions across 14 countries, creating a global forum for discussing the challenges and opportunities facing mission-driven higher education.

During the meeting, Cardinal Tolentino recognized the historic contribution of the Lasallian educational mission worldwide and emphasized the important role Lasallian universities play in shaping future generations through values-based education, critical thinking, and service.

In a particularly meaningful moment, the Cardinal conveyed a special message of solidarity to Bethlehem University, reaffirming that the Dicastery for Culture and Education stands ready to accompany and support the University in its mission of providing quality education and hope in the challenging context of the Holy Land.

A central focus of the discussion was the growing impact of artificial intelligence on higher education and society. Participants explored the responsibility of universities to prepare students for a rapidly changing world while ensuring that technological advancement remains grounded in human dignity, ethical responsibility, and social justice. The dialogue also highlighted the importance of addressing mental health challenges among students and preserving authentic human relationships in an increasingly digital age.

The Rome Program aims to strengthen Lasallian identity and leadership among university administrators and faculty from across the global Lasallian network. Bethlehem University’s participation reflects its continued commitment to international collaboration, innovative leadership, and advancing its Lasallian mission of educating students to become thoughtful, compassionate, and socially responsible leaders.

Through its participation in this global initiative, Bethlehem University continues to strengthen its engagement with the international Lasallian community while contributing to important conversations on the future of Catholic higher education and the transformative role of universities in today’s world.