Bethlehem University was honored to meet with its Chancellor, H.E. Archbishop Giorgio Lingua, Apostolic Delegate to Jerusalem and Palestine, for a high-level strategic meeting with Vice Chancellor Brother Hernán Santos, FSC, PhD, and members of the University’s Executive Council.

This significant gathering, which took place on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, marked a moment of deep alignment between the Holy See’s representative and the University’s leadership, reaffirming Bethlehem University’s mission as the only Catholic university in Palestine and its vital role in shaping future leaders committed to faith, excellence, and service.

The meeting focused on advancing key institutional priorities, including academic innovation, global partnerships, long-term sustainability, and the continued formation of students as agents of hope and transformation in Palestinian society and beyond.

“Bethlehem University stands as a beacon of faith, resilience, and intellectual formation in a region that deeply needs its witness,” said H.E. Archbishop Giorgio Lingua. “Its mission is not only to educate, but to form leaders who will serve the common good and uphold the dignity of every person.”

Vice Chancellor Brother Hernán Santos emphasized the importance of this moment of shared vision and accountability: “This meeting reflects our collective commitment to steward Bethlehem University’s mission with clarity, courage, and strategic focus,” said Brother Hernán. “In close partnership with our Chancellor as well as His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Father Francesco Ielpo, OFM, Custos of the Holy Land, and guided by our governing bodies, we are strengthening the foundations needed to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.”

Discussions highlighted several strategic areas of focus:

• Academic Growth and Innovation,  including the development of new faculties and programs aligned with emerging societal and workforce needs 
• International Collaboration, expanding partnerships with leading global institutions to elevate academic quality and research 
• Institutional Sustainability,  strengthening governance, financial resilience, and operational effectiveness 
• Student Formation and Impact, continuing to graduate leaders rooted in values of justice, service, and peace 

The Executive Council also shared with Msgr. Nicola Di Ponzio, Deputy Head of Mission, updates on the University’s continued resilience in navigating a complex and challenging regional environment, ensuring uninterrupted learning and mission delivery. “In Bethlehem, education is an act of hope,” Brother Hernán added. “Every student we form represents a future shaped by dignity, opportunity, and peace.”

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration between the University’s leadership, the International Board of Regents, and the Board of Trustees, ensuring strong governance alignment and unified strategic direction.