The American University of Kuwait (AUK) Graduates a New Class

"My message to you today is a simple one. Have a plan for your life, but be alert to new opportunities as they arise and be open to altering your path. And then, most importantly, be mindful that your successes are seldom, if ever, solely your own. Be aware of the role that others play in your success, and thank them. And, be sure to call your parents," said the American University of Kuwait (AUK) Interim President and Provost, Dr. Nizar Hamzeh in the AUK 2013 Commencement Ceremony held on June 13th at the Kuwait International Fairgrounds (KIF).

Graduation 2013: Photo Gallery

The ceremony, which celebrated the graduation of 350 students, was attended by the AUK Chair of the Board of Trustees Shaikha Dana N. Al-Sabah, board members, parents and families, and numerous dignitaries and diplomats. The keynote address of the commencement was delivered by Dr. Dale F. Eickelman, Ralph & Richard Lazarus Professor of Anthropology & Human Relations, Chair of the Department of Anthropology at Dartmouth College, and Dartmouth-AUK Program Relationship Coordinator.

After the Kuwait national anthem and a recitation of the Holy Quran, the event commenced with the student processional, long awaited by the parents and families. Led by the AUK President's party, deans, and faculty members, the graduating class marched through the central aisle of the hall in a ceremonial atmosphere marking the official start of the event.

Delivering his opening speech to hundreds of students, parents, and guests, Interim President Hamzeh urged the graduating class to use their education wisely, believe in the future, and pay gratitude to those who contributed to their success. "As you walk the stage out into the world, I hope you will carry forward the spirit of AUK and the liberal arts education you have received. The future is now in your hands," Said Dr. Hamzeh "For our faculty and staff, this is a day of accomplishment, of knowing you have mentored tomorrow's leaders. And we thank you for your hard work and dedication."

The keynote speaker, Dr. Eickelman, was next invited to the podium, where he spoke to the graduating class about the value of liberal arts education, referring to the historical background of the liberal arts philosophy that contributed to America's "unprecedented growth and expansion" in the early 20th century. "In a like manner to the US, Kuwait entered a period of massive and rapid growth-including in education-since the mid-20th century. Training in the liberal arts and critical thinking, analyzing the unexpected and assessing alternative solutions, offers a critical edge in thinking and acting in both local and global environments," said Dr. Dr. Eickelman.

Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Carol Ross-Scott then introduced the Class of 2013 Valedictorians, Huda Al-Rashid and Nada El-Badry who have earned a cumulative grade point average of 4.0 Summa Cum Laude (with the greatest honor). On behalf of the valedictorians and the Class of 2013, Al-Rashid delivered a speech calling on her fellow graduates to be "altruistically compassionate," to "treasure the gift of knowledge," and to use it "for passionate innovation and enthusiastic development."

The event proceeded with the main highlight of the ceremony, where the graduates walked on stage to receive their degrees, greeted with cheers and applause of families and friends. Interim Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Rawda Awwad recommended the conferral of degrees for the graduates of the College of Arts & Sciences, while Dean of the College of Business and Economics, Dr. Doug Munro recommended the conferral of degrees for the graduates of the College of Business and Economy, to Interim President Hamzeh, who then conferred upon the 350 graduates their respective degrees. Graduates were then awarded their bachelor's degree diplomas by Dr. Hamzeh, Dr. Doug Munro and Dr. Rawda Awwad.

In keeping with the academic tradition, the graduates were then asked to move their tassels from right to left, thereby marking their official graduation from AUK. As the ceremony drew to a close, the graduating class celebrated the traditional cutting of the Class of 2013 cake, and took photos with their families and friends.

The AUK 2013 Commencement coincides with important milestones in the history of AUK as it overlaps with the 10th Anniversary of AUK and the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding between AUK and Dartmouth College, the USA affiliate of AUK. Building on its academic excellence and leadership, the American University of Kuwait has introduced academic expansion plans for the year 2013-2014, including the initiation of an academic degree in Electronic Engineering.

Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 13th June 2013