The American University of Kuwait (AUK) Graduates its 9th Class

Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, represented by His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce and Industry and Acting Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Abdul Mohsen Al-Medej, the American University of Kuwait (AUK) held its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2014 at the Kuwait International Fairgrounds in Mishref, where 350 students officially became AUK graduates. The ceremony was attended by Shaikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, Founder and Chair of AUK, along with members of the AUK Board of Trustees, Dartmouth College representatives, diplomats, dignitaries, as well as the families and friends of this year's graduates.

Following Kuwait's national anthem and a recitation from the Holy Quran, the graduating class proceeded into the hall in the traditional ceremonial manner: the faculty processional led by the deans of the respective colleges, followed by the students' processional led by their faculty. The processional was ended with the march of the AUK President's party that included, for the first time, members of AUK's Board of Trustees.

Professor Dr. Nizar Hamzeh, President of AUK, addressed the graduates in his opening speech saying "you have passed the test and proved your readiness to embark toward the vision you hold of your future. We are proud and honored to have you as AUK alumni." Professor Dr. Hamzeh also emphasized the value and quality of education at AUK that "cannot be obtained with a simple point and click. It cannot be placed in a box, wrapped with paper and ribbon, and bestowed upon you. It is a quality education of high standards of learning that we must maintain as a university and you must earn as a student."

Dr. Abdul Mohsen Al-Medej gave a speech about the importance of private higher education in Kuwait, highlighting the important role played by AUK in Kuwait's higher education. He specifically highlighted the social engagement aspect of AUK's educational and research activities delivered through the different University research and outreach centers.

The Keynote Speaker of this year's commencement was Mr. Faisal Al-Ayyar, Vice Chairman of the Kuwait Projects Company (KIPCO), who shared with the graduates some words of wisdom, advising them to keep their youthful spirit while utilizing their education to the best of their abilities. "Raise the standard of work ethics. Have goals -personal and career- but also participate in the vision and goals of your country. I know you love your country but it should be a positive love that includes sincere contribution," he said.

Following Mr. Al-Ayyar's speech, Dr. Carol Ross, Vice President of Student Affairs, introduced the co-valedictorians of the Class of 2014; from the College of Arts & Sciences Noor Kassem, and from the College of Business & Economics Nasser Al-Rashoud. Dr. Ross invited Al-Rashoud to the stage to give his speech on behalf of the Class of 2014. In his speech, he thanked the families and faculty members for the support they provided the graduates throughout their university experience.

The event proceeded with the highlight of the ceremony, where the graduates receive their earned degrees. 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 Interim Dean of the College of Business and Economics, Dr. John Russell, recommended the conferral of degrees for the graduates of the College of Business and Economics, to President Hamzeh, who then conferred upon the graduates their respective degrees. The graduates were then awarded their , bachelor's degree diplomas by Dr. Hamzeh, Mr. Faisal Al-Ayyar, Dr. Rawda Awwad, and Dr. John Russell.

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 2014 cake, and took photos with their families and friends.

The AUK 2014 Commencement coincides with important milestones in the history of AUK as it overlaps with the 10th Anniversary of AUK.

About AUK

The American University of Kuwait is a liberal arts institution, founded in 2003, dedicated to teaching, learning, and scholarship. AUK offers programs that provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for lifelong learning and professional success. AUK enriches society by fostering an environment encouraging critical thinking, effective communication, personal growth, service, and leadership.

About Dartmouth College

Founded in 1769, Dartmouth is a member of the Ivy League and consistently ranks among the world's greatest academic institutions. Dartmouth has forged a singular identity for combining its deep commitment to outstanding undergraduate liberal arts and graduate education with distinguished research and scholarship in the Arts & Sciences and its three leading professional graduate schools -the Geisel School of Medicine, Thayer School of Engineering, and the Tuck School of Business.

Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 14th June 2014