On Wednesday, 27 October 2025, Bethlehem University had the honor of welcoming a delegation from the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem (SMOTJ), United States Grand Priory, accompanied by Chevaleresse Shahinda Nassar, Advancement Office Manager at Bethlehem University, member of the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem, and member of its Permanent Committee in the Holy Land.

The delegation was warmly received by Brother Jack Curran, Vice President for Advancement, who expressed deep appreciation for the Order’s steadfast generosity and enduring friendship with Bethlehem University. Their discussion focused on the impact of SMOTJ scholarships, which continue to transform students’ lives and sustain their hope amid challenging circumstances.

The visiting delegation included Chev. Capt. Robert A. Bellito, GOTJ, Executive Director; Captain Chev. Clayton M. Kemmerer, USN (Ret.), Chairman of the GEN Raymond G. Davis Templar Foundation; Colonel Chev. Jim Fosbrink, Scholarship Program Director; and Chev. Tony Khashram, KCTJ, Preceptor of the Permanent Preceptory of the Holy Land.

A heartfelt meeting with SMOTJ scholarship recipients followed, during which students shared their personal stories, academic journeys, and the difference these scholarships have made for them and their families. The visitors were deeply moved by the students’ courage, resilience, and determination to give back to their communities.

The visit continued with a tour of the Tarek Ahmad Juffali Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, where the delegation was welcomed by Dean Ms. Salam Awad and Mr. Nour Talbishi, Nursing Simulation Specialist. Mr. Talbishi explained the simulation lab’s training methods and demonstrated several live practice sessions, showcasing the University’s advanced approach to preparing future nurses with hands-on, real-world experience.

Since 2011, the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem and its charitable arm, the GEN Raymond G. Davis Templar Foundation, have contributed over half a million dollars to Bethlehem University. Their generous support continues to strengthen academic excellence and provide life-changing opportunities for students to build meaningful futures of service and leadership in the Holy Land.

This visit reaffirmed the strong and lasting partnership between SMOTJ and Bethlehem University, a relationship founded on shared values of faith, education, and compassion, and a mutual commitment to nurturing hope and opportunity for the next generation.