ZHF and American University of Beirut announce first Zaha Hadid Scholars

The School of Architecture and Design (SoAD),​​​​ at the American University of Beirut, and Zaha Hadid Foundation have​ selected the first recipients of the prestigious Zaha Hadid Scholars Program: architecture students Celine Imad El Hachem​ and Reine El Khatib. ​

The scholarship program funded by the Zaha Hadid Foundation honors the legacy of renowned architect and AUB alumna, Zaha Hadid.​ Launched in September 2025, and for the three years following, the Zaha Hadid Scholars​ Program will fully fund the five-year undergraduate education for two architecture students annually at AUB’s Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (MSFEA). Students are chosen based on need and merit.

The Zaha Hadid Foundation highlighted the selection: “We’re thrilled to be able to continue Zaha’s commitment to education by supporting one of her alma maters, American University of Beirut, starting with the inaugural Zaha Hadid Scholars Students, Celine Imad El Hachem and Reine El Khatib.” The F​oundation added, “We’re impressed by their energy, sharpness and creativity and are so happy to be able to play some part in their coming journey.”

The recipients expressed their gratitude for the oppo​rtunity. Celine Imad El Hachem commented on the news: “When I first found out about getting the scholarship, a wave of overwhelming joy and excitement washed over me. I am extremely grateful. With their support and help I hope to aim high and let myself flourish in the world where ideas come to life and stones become art, the world of architecture.”

Reine El Khatib shared her surprise: “I was surprised and grateful when I first got the news, I couldn’t have imagined myself in this position ever.”

Celine and Reine will now begin their studies with full support, carrying forward the spirit of Zaha Hadid’s revolutionary work.  ​​