AACC Board

Dr. Smither, who was one of the founders of the AACC, was born in Lebanon and received her B.Sc. from the American University of Beirut.  She went on to receive her masters and doctoral degrees in Psychology from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. Janan retired from the University of Central Florida in June of 2024 after serving in the Psychology Department for over 30 years.

David Sleiman, a first-generation American of Lebanese descent, has called Orlando home since 1991. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Rollins College and is a devoted husband and father of two boys. An active member of the Arab American Community Center (AACC) since 2007, David is passionate about serving the Arab American population across Central Florida. With his background in international relations and dedication to cultural awareness, he brings valuable leadership and insight to the AACC, fostering inclusivity, education, and community growth.

Rashid Khudari is a financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual in Orlando, Florida. Originally from Damascus, Syria, he relocated to Orlando in 2010. His mission is to help individuals and families protect their loved ones and secure their financial futures by leveraging strategic financial tools and generational wisdom.

Oraib Aref, a proud AACC board member and mother of four, is deeply committed to empowering the Arab American community. Having lived here for four years, she understands its unique challenges and aspirations. Her career reflects a passion for connection, inclusion, and support for women, youth, and diverse voices. Oraib strongly believes in AACC’s mission and is dedicated to building a thriving, empowered future alongside others who share this vision.

Samer K. Elbabaa, MD, FAANS, FACS
President, Orlando Health Children’s Neuroscience Institute | Chief, Pediatric Neurosurgery | Arnold Palmer Hospital For Children

Khalil Saad, a Florida resident since 2001 with roots in Lebanon, has built a diverse career in engineering and event production. He currently works at a nationwide engineering firm and previously served as Lead Designer at Lockheed Martin, contributing to major projects for NASA and Orlando International Airport. Holding degrees in Electrical Engineering Technology, Graphic Design, and Design Technology, Khalil blends technical expertise with creativity. He also owns multiple successful event and wedding production companies in Central Florida.

Mary Pelusi is a corporate trainer and business manager with 18+ years of experience in criminal justice, education, and consulting. She holds a Master’s in Public Affairs/Int’l Relations and is an expert in project management, training, and communications. As Associate Director at KPMG since 2014, she drives global learning initiatives. She also founded Cedar Consultancy, specializing in correctional training. A proud Lebanese American, she is a wife to Ross and mother to Myra, a student-athlete with medical career aspirations.

Safaa Matar has launched the Immigration Program at the AACC and served as the Immigration Director for the AACC for five consecutive years.
She has maintained full time employment in the immigration field working with immigration attorneys since 1998. Currently she is a Freelance Senior Immigration Paralegal since 2022. She has earned her Associate Degree in Science from Seminole State College in Paralegal Studies and her Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from American Intercontinental University. Safaa has attended various seminars, training courses and webinars throughout her carrier in an effort to gain skills and knowledge. Safaa has served as a volunteer for 13 years at the American Community Islamic Center, Masjid Assalam. She is a mother of four children and grandmother to six grandchildren.

Mo Asady is an Iraqi/American/Swedish technology executive recognized for his leadership in artificial intelligence and telecommunications. With more than 20 years of experience managing global technology teams across the United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Dubai, he has consistently delivered transformative solutions that drive innovation and growth. As a sought-after public speaker, Mo has shared the stage with top industry pioneers, including Microsoft, Google, Salesforce, and Meta. He currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer at Convirza, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Yasser Krayem, a graduate of the New York Institute of Technology with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, began his career in Aleppo, Syria, managing his family’s home appliance business under Kelvinator USA. In 2012, he moved to the U.S. and founded Slab Fix LLC, specializing in geotechnical services. Passionate about community development, he has been active in JCI and the Aleppo Chamber of Industry. A proud husband and father, Yasser is committed to empowering the Arab-American community through the AACC.

Sally, a proud Egyptian, moved to the U.S. in 2013 with a deep love for her culture and heritage. Since 2007, she has built a successful career in Human Resources across fashion, networking, and technology, earning a reputation as a trusted professional. A devoted wife to Samir El Mouchantaf and mother of two, she values community, culture, and connection. Guided by optimism and pride, Sally is passionate about preserving heritage and fostering resilience in those around her.

Lora, a CRM professional originally from Syria, has been an active and dedicated volunteer with the AACC since 2015, consistently working to uplift and support the Arab American community. Her passion for cultural advocacy and community service drives her ongoing efforts to make a lasting impact. Lora is also a devoted wife and a proud mother to her son, Ferris.

Farah Akkad is a Syrian American professional with a background in banking, formerly serving as a branch manager at Truist. She is a dedicated wife and mother of three, and currently serves as the Chairwoman of the AACC Women’s Committee, where she leads initiatives to empower and uplift women in the Arab American community.

Gihan Awad, an Egyptian American and Owner/Broker at La Rosa Realty Central Florida, brings over 14 years of real estate experience. Leading a team of 90 realtors, she is dedicated to a client-first approach, ensuring smooth and successful transactions. Motivated by her family, Gihan understands the importance of finding the perfect home. Her expertise, market knowledge, and commitment have earned her a strong reputation among clients, making her a trusted leader in the industry.

Lalla Meriam Elmoufaddal is an accomplished Moroccan businesswoman and realtor based in Central Florida. With a passion for community engagement, she is dedicated to supporting the Arab American community through her involvement with the Arab American Center. In her real estate career, she helps clients achieve their property goals across Central Florida, and she is actively involved in initiatives that promote cultural and business ties between the U.S. and Morocco. Lalla is also the founder of Merimofa, a business focused on exporting organic Moroccan products, including Argan oil, to the United States.