Haigazian University

Dr. Manoug Manougian: The passing of a pioneer. A lasting legacy!

May, 07
Dr. Manoug Manougian: The passing of a pioneer. A lasting legacy!

Haigazian University mourns the passing of esteemed scientist and visionary former faculty member, Dr. MANOUG MANOUGIAN (Jerusalem, 1935 – Tampa, 2024). Dr. Manougian’s legacy is entwined with modern Lebanese history, particularly through his leadership as the initiator and founder of the “Lebanese Rocket Society”, originally established as the “Haigazian College Rocket Society”.

In the early 1960s, a group of inspired Haigazian students, under Dr. Manougian’s able guidance, attained the remarkable accomplishment of launching the first rockets in the Middle East, known as THE CEDAR ROCKETS. The endeavors came to an end in 1966.

Dr. Manougian subsequently contributed his expertise to the University of South Florida for many decades, excelling in various academic and research roles, notably in STEM education, Aeronautics, Rocketry, also Armenian Studies.

His dedication and scientific contributions were celebrated in Beirut when Haigazian University honored him with the “Distinguished Scholar Award” following the screening of the 2013 documentary film by Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige named “The Lebanese Rocket Society: The Strange Tale of the Lebanese Space Race”.

Dr. Manoug Manougian leaves behind a lasting legacy in the fields of science and education, remembered fondly by colleagues, students, and the wider community. His pioneering spirit and passion for exploration at a very young age will continue to inspire generations of scholars and researchers in Lebanon and abroad.