The American University

The American University of Beirut held its eighty-eighth annual commencement on the evening of Monday, July 1, distributing diplomas and academic degrees to the graduates, who numbered about 400 students, men and women.

This ceremony was distinguished by the installation of the university's new president, Dr. John Leonard, who took over his duties from Dr. Constantine Zurayk, acting president of the university.

The speaker of the ceremony was the world-famous historian Dr. Arnold Toynbee.

Dr. Zurayk delivered an eloquent address directed to the graduates, which had the most telling effect upon the souls of the listeners. As for the presidential address delivered by John Paul Leonard, it was truly splendid; its theme was: "Give me men to match my mountains."

The ceremony was attended by His Excellency the President of the Republic and his lady wife, and by Messrs. Sami al-Solh, the Prime Minister, and Adel Osseiran, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, together with a great throng of the students' families and friends, so that the number present was estimated at ten thousand...