Retiring Associate Dean of Students Leila Saad was saluted yesterday for her 24-year career at Boston University by students, alumni, faculty and staff packed into the George Sherman Union faculty dining room. Those in attendance were saddened by her departure, but celebrated her past enthusiasm and close attachment to students.
“This occasion defines what we mean by mixed feelings,” said Boston University President Jon Westling. “We understood almost from the start that we were dealing with a remarkable presence.”
Westling said Saad guided how the University treated students.
“She understood even when some of us ought to know better … that our main focus should be to develop the potential of students,” Westling said. “She was a beacon for me and many others.”
A replacement will be hard to find, he said.
“It’s often a bromide to say good old so-and-so is irreplaceable, so we discount it,” Westling said. “In this case, it is entirely accurate. Our luminous colleague cannot be replaced.”
Friends and students also testified to Saad’s power as a teacher and colleague.
“She is the most amazing human force in this University,” said Bi Ngo, a senior in the College of Communication. “In her acting classes she makes you feel every ounce of creative energy you have. She’s very inspiring.”
Speakers touched upon Saad’s focus on work as well as play.
“When I came here, Leila taught me to talk and write,” said Digna Mejia Avreu, a friend of Saad. “She is a great mentor. Anytime you encounter Leila, it is a memory.”
“I remember dancing with her to Ricky Martin at orientation,” said COM senior Barri Tsavaris. “I think that students walk away from orientation remembering her.”
John Kopec has known Saad since 1977 when they worked at the Center for English Language and Orientation Programs. He said Saad’s involvement with many University programs and people was one her greatest assets.
“Just as nature abhors a vacuum, Boston University is going to abhor the empty space left behind when she leaves,” Kopec said.
Saad said her decision to leave BU was the second toughest she ever had to make, after deciding to leave her 6-year-old son in Egypt to come to Boston. However, she said her time here was well spent.
“Throughout my journey here, every person I’ve met has had a huge impact and helped me change and grow,” Saad said. “Thank you, Boston University, for giving me the best years of my life and wonderful memories I’ll cherish forever.”
Known for forging a mentoring relationship with students, Saad started working summers at BU in 1977 and began full-time in 1979. The first female stage actress in Egypt, Saad is the Stage Troupe faculty advisor. She is also the founder of the University Resource Center, where she counsels students in a number of areas.
She is retiring to her hometown, Cairo, Egypt, where she plans to spend time with her family.
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