Zahi Masri

director at APPAF

Zahi Masri was a prominent Palestinian-American physician and community leader who served as the director of APPAF (American Palestine Public Affairs Forum).1 2 Born in Ramallah, Palestine in 1935, he grew up in Nablus before moving to the United States in the early 1960s.1

Professional Career

Dr. Masri had an illustrious medical career:

He studied medicine in Cairo, Egypt on a full scholarship.1
He completed his general surgery residency and cardiovascular and thoracic surgery fellowship at the University of Louisville.1
As a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon, he played a key role in establishing a renowned open-heart surgery program in Louisville.1
He served patients for over 50 years.1

Community Involvement

Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Masri was deeply involved in various educational and charitable initiatives:

He worked with Physicians for Peace, providing medical care in war-torn countries.1
He sought to establish an American University in Jordan.1
He founded the American Palestine Public Affairs Forum (APPAF), a policy institute dedicated to raising awareness about the Palestinian cause.1

Honors and Recognition

Dr. Masri received the Kentucky Colonel honor, the highest title bestowed by Kentucky's Governor, in recognition of his outstanding service to the community, state, and nation.1

Dr. Zahi Hamdi Masri passed away on January 3, 2023, in Louisville, Kentucky, leaving behind a legacy of medical excellence and community service.1 3