Impact Stories

Although Colonel Donald P. Mafrige’s grandfather emigrated from Lebanon in 1885, he still feels a strong attachment to the country. “I am very proud of my Lebanese heritage,” he explains. A licensed real estate service provider in Galveston, Texas, Mafrige supports many charitable initiatives in Lebanon and the US. He recently made a generous donation to support the Don and Nancy Mafrige Endowed Scholarship, which he established in 2022. “It’s the right time for me and others who are in a position to do so to step up and give,” he says.

Mafrige’s most recent $100,000 donation was announced at a live fundraising appeal, which took place during a tribute to AUB medical professionals and fundraising gala in Houston, Texas, on March 18. “I had the privilege of announcing Colonel Mafrige’s gift during the live appeal that evening,” said Associate Vice President for Development Walid Katergi. “It sparked many other gifts that evening. We are deeply grateful to him for his strong support for our university.”

Mafrige speaks warmly about what AUB has done for Lebanon over the years. He also appreciates the impact of an AUB education. “Being able to get an education is so important and provides a young person with enhanced opportunities,” he says. Mafrige is concerned about the impact of the current economic and financial situation in Lebanon on students. He wants to help – and hopes others will do the same. “There will always be a need for scholarships of course, but students are especially struggling these days. I hope my gift can be an example to others and will encourage them to donate as well,” he says.