Decades after graduation, I was casually strolling down the IC stairs when I heard my family name echo through the halls. I turned around in surprise and, to my absolute delight, there she was—my beloved school principal, the one who once showered me with endless love. Even after all these years, her sharp recognition made my heart skip a beat, filling me with gratitude and nostalgia for the warmth and kindness she always radiated.

As the Voice of ICAA, Rajaa Messeike Class of 1996, I must start by giving a huge shoutout to Mrs. Samia Khalaf Sullivan, as no tribute would be complete without our beloved Elementary Director. Mrs. Sullivan is more than just a name—She is a beautiful feeling, a memory, and a legacy. I had the privilege of interviewing Mrs. Sullivan today, where she welcomed me in her home with open arms. In that moment, I was no longer the adult—I was transported back to my childhood, mesmerized by her as she recounted her incredible journey for me to share.

Mrs. Sullivan’s journey was anything but ordinary. She first attended the American School for Girls (ASG) before moving on to Junior College—what we now know as LAU. Back then, Junior College only offered Freshman and Sophomore years, but thanks to an agreement with New York State University, students could take courses locally while earning an accredited BS degree from New York State University.

Not one to settle, Mrs. Sullivan also enrolled at AUB for extra courses. Then came a twist of fate—Dr. George Shahla, Director of IC Elementary School and part of AUB’s Education Department, saw something special in her. With IC and AUB still one institution at the time, she was offered a job at IC while continuing her studies at AUB. At just 18 years old in 1944, she stepped into IC as an office manager. But she wasn’t stopping there. Step by step, she climbed the ranks—Assistant Director, Associate Director, and finally, Director of the Elementary School. Ms. Samia Khalaf began her journey at IC before marrying Mr. James Sullivan (known as Sully) in 1967. Mr. Sullivan served as both the Chairman of the Art department and the Director of the Boarding department, a role that allowed the couple to live on campus. Together, they provided care and guidance to boarding students ranging from 7 to 20 years old. Mrs. Samia Khalaf Sullivan’s dedication kept her at IC for an impressive 47 years, from 1944 to 1991. Though she had to retire two years earlier than expected, she wasn’t ready to say goodbye just yet. She took on a new mission—helping IC’s New York office reassemble the alumni across Canada and the USA. And so, from 1991 to 2009, she continued building bridges, proving that her love for IC went far beyond the school grounds. Along her journey, Mrs. Sullivan has authored 23 papers, each exploring a different aspect of elementary school education

As we reminisce about her warm and kind-hearted presence, we cannot but state the obvious. Mrs. Sullivan is the heart and soul of IC’s Elementary School, a firm yet loving guide who shaped generations of students with wisdom, kindness, and unwavering belief in their potential. She wasn’t just a director; she was a mentor, a second mother, and a beacon of encouragement. She knew every student by name, recognized their families, tracked their progress, and uplifted them with gentle yet powerful words. To her, academic struggles weren’t setbacks—they were opportunities to grow. She made sure every child felt seen, valued, and capable of achieving greatness. With a blend of hope, kindness, and a sprinkle of magic, this exceptional educator transformed every challenge into an opportunity to thrive, making our school days unforgettable, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.

In her own words, “I loved everyone at IC as if they were my own—teachers, parents, and students. Over the years, I had the privilege of guiding so many young minds, ranging from 7 to 20 years old. The greatest joy came when, years later, they would approach me with a smile, recognizing me, and I’d feel just as happy to remember them. The love and respect we shared were truly special, especially when I had the chance to reconnect with them as Alumnus through the IC New York office, watching as they transformed into incredible adults. It’s funny how life works—I set out to major in economics at AUB, but fate had other plans, steering me into the world of education. And what a gift it was, watching generation after generation flourish and find their path.”

Mrs. Samia Khalaf Sullivan isn’t just a chapter in IC’s history—she’s forever a part of our hearts.

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