The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) has announced the death of Dr. Ahmad Sakr, one of the founders of the Muslim Student Association (MSA) in the United States. According to the announcement:
NEW YORK, NY (November 24, 2015) – The Islamic Circle of North America mourns the loss of Dr. Ahmad Sakr, who passed away last night in Southern California. ICNA offers its deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Sakr. May Allah swt Grant him the highest level in Paradise and give patience to his grieving family. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Dr. Sakr got his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. He was a founding member and president of the Muslim Students’ Association (MSA) as well as a founding member of the World Council of Mosques, Makkah. He was the first director and representative of the Muslim World League to the U.N. A strong supporter of ICNA, Dr. Sakr continually served Muslim communities in the United States and Canada for more than five decades. His contributions include establishing communities, helping Mosques, schools, and various Muslim charities. In addition, Dr. Sakr authored more than fifty books on variety of subjects that continue to benefit people across the country. Dr. Sakr was the foremost Muslim American authority on food and nutrition and a board member of the Islamic food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA). He was very active in interfaith work and made numerous radio and television appearances. Funeral prayers will be held today at the Islamic Center of San Gabriel Valley, Rowland Heights followed by burial at the La Verne Cemetery. The Islamic Circle of North America is a leading American Muslim organization dedicated to the betterment of society through the application of Islamic values. Since 1968, ICNA has worked to build relations between communities by devoting itself to education, outreach, social services and relief efforts.
A Hudson Institute report authored by the GNBDW editor identifies Dr. Sakr as one of the founding members of the Muslim Student Association (MSA) in 1963. The MSA was the earliest known organization of the US Muslim Brotherhood and other MSA founders went on to become important US Brotherhood leaders.
