Marymount University’s commitment to fostering a global perspective was on full display as the institution hosted the Bahraini Embassy and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United States, His Excellency Shaikh Abdullah Bin Rashid Al Khalifa, on campus last month. Marymount’s Lee Center buzzed with excitement as Embassy staff and members of the Marymount community created stronger bonds between the University and Bahrain, while also celebrating unity through sports.
Approximately 100 people gathered in the Converse Family Fieldhouse for the event marking Bahrain Sports Day, an annual national event that engages every sector of Bahraini society. Officially observed on February 22, it seeks to enhance public health across communities by encouraging individuals to engage in physical activity and cultivate a love of sports for a healthy lifestyle. To kick off the event, remarks were made by Marymount University President Irma Becerra and Ambassador Al Khalifa.
“Our university strives to improve the lives of our students and our community for a better tomorrow. And achieving a better tomorrow requires understanding, collaboration and developing relationships,” President Becerra said as she introduced the Bahraini envoy, who was appointed to his position in July 2017. “Through his daily work in Washington, D.C., Ambassador Al Khalifa leads the Kingdom of Bahrain’s mission to strengthen ties between the U.S. and the American people and drive the countries’ shared values and visions for security, prosperity and friendship.”
“Today, as we celebrate Bahrain’s Sports Day alongside each and every one of you, regardless of nationality, we are reminded that sports epitomizes the essence of health and well-being,” Ambassador Al Khalifa added. “This day stands as a testament to the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa as a committed advocate for the imperative role of physical activity in fostering a healthy society and His Highness, the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa. His unwavering commitment to youth development serves as an inspiration to all of us in Bahrain.”
“Moreover, it marks a celebration of the determined efforts of the Bahraini Olympic Committee, under the guidance of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Hence, here in the U.S., our commitment lies in amplifying the value of fitness. It involves embracing the authority entrusted not only to me but also to the embassy team, translating it into impactful actions that bridge our people. And what better conduit than sports?”
After these greetings, the heart of the event unfolded on the court as the Ambassador and members of the Embassy of Bahrain joined Dr. Hesham El-Rewini, Marymount University’s Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Marymount students and staff in friendly volleyball matches. For lunch, traditional Bahraini cuisine was served to all following the contests.
