DePaul University recently hosted a memorable commencement ceremony in Bahrain, marking a significant milestone in its 24-year legacy of academic excellence and partnership in the region. The event was co-organized by the Driehaus Center for International Programs and the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF).
The Minister of Education, Dr. Mohamed bin Mubarak Juma representing His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, conferred diplomas to the graduates. The Minister of Tourism, Fatima Al Sairafi delivered remarks on behalf of DePaul alumni, and U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain, the Honorable Steven C. Bondy, highlighted the importance of U.S.-Bahrain relations and the vital role of education in strengthening bilateral ties.
The ceremony honored the achievements of DePaul’s newest graduates, who now join a vibrant network of more than 800 alumni in Bahrain.
A DePaul delegation traveled to Bahrain for the celebration, including President Robert Manuel, Associate Provost GianMario Besana, Driehaus College of Business Dean Sulin Ba, and Professor Vahap Uysal, Director of the Driehaus Center for International Programs.
In addition to the commencement, the delegation participated in an alumni reunion at BIBF and attended a luncheon hosted in their honor by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain. These gatherings provided meaningful opportunities to connect with alumni, institutional partners, and leaders from the local business community.
A highlight of the visit was a surprise gathering at Khaleeji Bank, where CEO Sattam Sulaiman Algosaibi—a proud DePaul alumnus—welcomed the delegation along with several fellow alumni currently employed at the bank. The meeting concluded with a celebratory lunch and engaging conversations about the future of Bahrain’s financial sector.
Throughout their visit, the DePaul delegation met with the Deputy Prime Minister, senior executives, and other influential figures across the public and private sectors, reaffirming DePaul’s long-standing commitment to global engagement, alumni success, and strategic partnerships in Bahrain.
