In Memory of Sister Liliane Alam
Sister Lilian Alam
December 5, 1947 – April 26, 2015
Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center is deeply saddened to report the passing of former Executive Director, Sister Liliane Alam.
Sister Liliane was a member of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary order of nuns and served as Executive Director of Las Americas from 2001 to 2007. During her tenure she skillfully guided Las Americas out of major financial insecurity; spearheaded a fundraising campaign to purchase our current office building at 1500 Yandell; and gained local and international recognition for our work to defend detained immigrant children, asylum seekers, and victims of violence. Sister Liliane’s leadership and spirit of service touched countless lives in the Las Americas community. She inspired volunteers, staff, and clients alike with her unwavering dedication to compassion and charity and was well-respected by many. In 2007, Sister Liliane was named a Las Americas Border Hero in honor of her extraordinary service to Las Americas, immigrant survivors of violence and persecution, and the El Paso community.
Sister Liliane was born in Lebanon and was an economist by training. She spoke four languages fluently. After leaving El Paso for New York in 2007, she continued in her work to advocate for global human rights there. She served on a number of institutional boards and worked for the United Nations which required frequent travel to UN headquarters in Geneva. Sister Liliane is remembered for her nurturing humor, her devoted servant leadership, and her courage against injustice.
“Sister Liliane was my first window into the extreme importance of the work we do on behalf of immigrants. Her death is a huge loss to the immigrant advocacy community. She will be greatly missed,” said Pamela Genghiní-Muñoz, Las Americas’ Board President.
Sister Liliane died in New York City on April 26, 2015. A public memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 7:00 pm at St. Pius Church. El Pasoans are invited to pay their final respects and celebrate Sister Lilian Alam’s legacy of service to our community.
Thank you for your life of service, Sister Liliane Alam. Rest in peace, with love and gratitude from your Las Americas family.
