UM mourns victims of massive explosion in Beirut

“We are deeply saddened by the news of the massive explosion in the port of Beirut in Lebanon on August 4, 2020,” says UM President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Michael Benarroch.

Dr. Benarroch says: “The devastating event that many of us watched unfold on video is both horrific and heartrending. On behalf of the University of Manitoba staff, faculty and students, especially anyone with connections to the Lebanese community, I extend sincere condolences to those who have been directly affected by the loss of friends, colleagues and family members.”

Donations in support of the victims can be made to the Lebanon Relief Fund through the Manitoba Islamic Association: miaonline.org

Assisting in this relief effort is Winnipeg philanthropist and business leader Dr. Abdo (Albert) El Tassi (LLD/13), who was born in Lebanon and came to Winnipeg in 1969. He was awarded an honorary degree from UM in 2013. Dr. El Tassi has sponsored dozens of people to come to Canada, established training and development opportunities, and provided interest-free loans to cover business startup costs, mortgages and university tuition for immigrants building new lives in Canada.