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In Memory of Trustee Ms. Nora Shawwa

Ahliah School is deeply saddened by the loss of a great supporter, distinguished alumna, and an esteemed member of the Board of Trustees, Ms. Nora Shawwa. Trustee Nora passed away on Friday, April 28, 2023, in Cyprus after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Ms. Nora Shawwa graduated from Ahliah School with a High School Diploma in 1973 and received her BA in Political Science from the University of Texas at Dallas in 1979. Since 2012, she had served as a dedicated member of Ahliah’s Board of Trustees.

Trustee Nora was an inspiring woman who was passionate about education and culture, and was renowned in the communications world for over 30 years. In 1993, she founded Rimal Publications in Cyprus, which focuses on history, art, culture, travel, and children’s books. Rimal aims to build bridges between cultures and enlighten the world at large about the rich history, culture, and traditions of this part of the world. Trustee Shawwa brought to the attention of the public important but neglected events and situations by publishing comprehensive history books spanning over 3000 years, including “Life at the Crossroads: A history of Gaza,” “Historic Nicosia,” and “Syria: A Historical and Architectural Guide.” During this period, Ms. Shawwa was also the publisher of Middle East International, with the first issue appearing in November 2009. She was also the partner and managing director (2007-2009) of Middle East Economic Survey, a weekly newsletter published by Middle East Petroleum and Economic Publication in Cyprus.

She was a great believer in Ahliah’s mission and contributed tremendously to the school throughout her membership on the Board of Trustees through her network and expertise. She generously supported Ahliah’s financial aid program to help the school sustain diversity and was mindful of maintaining Ahliah’s long heritage. Nora also helped the school preserve its old historical records well-documented by scanning all the old Ahliah yearbooks and keeping high-resolution digital copies.

Nora’s loss has left our hearts with deep sorrow.

 

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