A milestone evening in Washington, D.C., honors distinguished leaders, humanitarian organizations, and the next generation of Lebanese-American professionals.
Four decades of friendship, partnership, and unwavering commitment to Lebanon were celebrated on September 24, 2026, at the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C., as the American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL) marked its 40th anniversary with a special dinner bringing together distinguished guests, diplomats, community leaders, and longtime supporters.
More than a celebration of the organization’s history, the evening served as a reminder of the enduring bonds between Lebanon and the United States and the importance of continued cooperation at a time when Lebanon faces significant challenges and uncertainty.
The gathering reflected a shared vision for a sovereign, stable, and prosperous Lebanon, while recognizing individuals and organizations whose leadership, achievements, and humanitarian contributions have made a lasting impact.
Honoring Excellence and Service
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of several prestigious awards recognizing outstanding accomplishments in education, business, public service, and humanitarian work.
Dr. Fadlo Khuri, President of the American University of Beirut (AUB), received the Peter J. Tanous Founder’s Award, while Wael Sawan, Chief Executive Officer of Shell, was honored with the Joseph J. Jacobs Distinguished Achievement Award.
Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis received the Philip C. Habib Award for Distinguished Public Service, recognizing her contributions to public service.
The Ray R. Irani Lifetime Achievement Award was jointly presented to three organizations whose
humanitarian efforts have supported communities in need: Beit el Baraka, the Lebanese Red Cross, and the International Rescue Committee.
The evening also celebrated the next generation of leadership, recognizing eight young Lebanese-American professionals as 2026 Rising Leaders for their professional excellence and dedication to their communities.
Diplomatic Presence and a Vision for the Future
Among the distinguished speakers were H.E. Nada Hamadeh Moawad, Lebanon’s Ambassador to the United States, and The Honorable Michel Issa, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, highlighting the importance of the relationship between the two countries.
Another significant announcement came as ATFL unveiled a new endowment initiative designed to support the organization’s long-term mission.
The initiative has already secured nearly $7 million in commitments from ATFL leadership and longtime supporters. Building on this momentum, the organization’s Board of Directors has established a $10 million endowment goal.
Four Decades of Partnership, a Continuing Mission
As ATFL celebrates its 40th anniversary, the occasion stands as both a tribute to four decades of dedication and a renewed commitment to the future.
Through recognition of distinguished achievements, support for humanitarian organizations, investment in emerging leaders, and the strengthening of U.S.–Lebanon relations, the anniversary dinner reflected a message that extends beyond one evening: Lebanon’s future continues to inspire commitment, solidarity, and hope among those who believe in its potential.
Photo Credit: ATFL
