A Lebanese priest of the Lebanese Maronite Order, Dr. Elie Saade is renowned for his leadership in education, philosophy, and pastoral service. He holds dual degrees in Theology and Philosophy from the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), and pursued advanced studies in Washington D.C., earning a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Villanova University and a Master’s in Higher Education Administration from Barry University.
Father Saade’s career bridges continents and disciplines. He has served as Parochial Vicar in Pennsylvania, Pastor in Miami, and Administrator of Maronite missions in New Jersey. He is the founder of Star of the East Radio, a multilingual platform for spiritual and cultural dialogue, and has hosted programs in Spanish and Arabic across various media outlets, while also contributing to Noursat Television and the National Apostolate of Maronites.
A prolific educator and spiritual leader, he currently serves as Rector of Central College in Jounieh, Lebanon, overseeing English, French, and technical divisions with over 3,500 students. He is also Superior of the Sacred Heart Monastery and lectures in philosophy at USEK. His leadership extends to civic life as President of Club Central Jounieh, and spiritual guide to youth movements.
Fluent in five languages and a lifelong composer of religious hymns, Father Saade is a member of the Knights of Columbus (4th degree) and a passionate advocate for education, faith, spiritual formation, and community engagement. His work reflects a rare blend of intellectual depth, pastoral care, and visionary institutional stewardship.
The Teacher Association at Central College of the Lebanese Monks–Jounieh is a membership-based body formed by educators to represent and advocate for the school's teaching staff. It comprises twelve members proportionally representing various sections and departments. Members are nominated or elected by teachers and approved by the School Principal for a renewable three-year term. Elections are held in December, with the handover completed in January.
After appointment, the committee holds its first meeting to elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, while other responsibilities are distributed among remaining members. A post-election report outlining the committee's goals and activities is submitted to the school administration.
The Association serves as a bridge between the administration and teachers, promoting their welfare, professional development, and rights. It also maintains a connection with the Teachers Syndicate of Lebanon.
Beyond advocacy, the Association fosters a collaborative and respectful school environment by addressing educational challenges and facilitating communication between staff and administration. Socially, it strengthens collegial bonds through cultural events, outings, and support during life events (e.g., marriage, birth, bereavement). It also oversees insurance and logistical matters.
Ultimately, the Chair and members work to unite the school community around shared goals, supporting quality education and the school's mission and vision.
The mission of the Parents’ Committee is to ensure transparent, participatory, and constructive cooperation between parents and the school administration with the goal of promoting and safeguarding the educational, financial, and welfare interests of students, under the legal framework established by Law No. 515 of 1996.
The CCJ Parents’ Committee plays a vital role in shaping and supporting the school community through the following contributions:
Director of the French High School
Director of the French Middle School
Director of the French Primary and Elementary School
Director of the English Middle and High School
Director of the English Elementary School
Director of the Preschool (French and English sections)
Director of the Technical School
Nursery Coordinator
This board represents a unified body within Central College. Its dynamic and enterprising spirit constantly develops new strategies and activities to help contribute in providing the best education and the most appropriate atmosphere for teaching and learning, so that when our students leave CCJ to start their journey in the outside world, the education they have gained from CCJ will help them confront the world's challenges with confidence, ease, and strength.