This past weekend, the Arab American National Museum (AANM) hosted a cutting-edge conference in honor of the late Dr. Michael Suleiman. Dr. Suleiman, along with being a founding figure in the field of Arab American studies, was also an exemplary philanthropist. CAAP recognizes that philanthropic work takes many guises, and can involve donating time, expertise, or resources in the service of the greater good.
Michael Suleiman was born in Palestine in 1934, and immigrated to the United States in 1956. He earned his doctorate and became a professor at Kansas State University – eventually earning the title of Distinguished University Professor. Dr. Suleiman published and edited dozens of articles on Arab Americans, and also played an integral role in the creation of the AANM.
The conference this past weekend commemorated a man who donated so much of his time and care to the only institution that honors and celebrates the Arab American story – the AANM. Along with the guidance and expertise he provided during his life, Suleiman bequeathed his entire life’s work to the museum – his entire collection of books, articles, archival materials, and personal interviews. All of this material is now housed in the AANM’s Library & Resource Center – a fitting testament to a seminal figure in Arab American studies, and Arab American philanthropy.