AI in Lebanon Conference
Interviews.
The AI in Lebanon Conference: Salma Dannawi Oueida on Philanthropy, Education, and Human-Centered Innovation
Salma Dannawi Oueida, Associate Vice President for Development, Alumni Relations, and University Events at the American University of Beirut (AUB), brings over two decades of leadership in institutional advancement, global philanthropy, and social impact.
She played a pivotal role in AUB’s landmark BOLDLY AUB campaign (2017–2024), which raised over $805 million in support of education, healthcare, and research in Lebanon and the region.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field, Oueida was honored with the 2024 CASE Asia-Pacific Distinguished Service Award, one of the most prestigious global accolades in philanthropy and fundraising, awarded by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).
As a member of the Advisory Committee for the AI in Lebanon Conference 2025, taking place from July 21 to 26 across five cities, Oueida advocates for the ethical and purposeful integration of AI to serve education, community resilience, and sustainable development.
A strong advocate for women’s leadership, she is a founding member of Playbook, a global platform that empowers women changemakers, and serves as Ambassador for Philanthropy and CSR for the Women Board of Directors (WBD) network.
Through her engagement in the conference, Oueida aims to:
•Advance inclusive AI strategies that strengthen education, health, and economic systems
•Showcase the critical role of alumni networks and fundraising in AI capacity-building
•Inspire women and youth to lead Lebanon’s digital transformation with vision and integrity
•Foster cross-sector collaboration to scale AI for public good
“Artificial intelligence is not just about data or code,” Oueida affirms.
“It’s about unlocking human potential—and harnessing the power of giving, connection, and community.”
For full details on the conference agenda, visit:
https://ailebanonconference.com