News
28, Nov 2010
AUK Recognized as a "Superbrand" in 2010
The American University of Kuwait has been awarded as one of the Superbrands in Kuwait for 2010, at a tribute event at the Movenpick Hotel in Shuwaikh, Free Trade Zone on November 6, 2010. This is the second time Superbrands takes place in Kuwait, and AUK was selected and qualified as one of the strongest brands in Kuwait.
Superbrands is an organization based in the United Kingdom that promotes the discipline of branding and pays tribute to exceptional brands in over 50 countries. The organization grants 'Superbrand' status to companies whose brand recognition is considered exceptional in the market. Superbrands is now a global business operating in over 50 countries worldwide, including Kuwait.
AUK was voted by the members of the Kuwait Superbrand Council comprised of high-profile chief executive officers of major companies in Kuwait, and was then awarded at the tribute event. As part of being awarded with the Superbrand status, AUK is showcased in the annual Superbrands Book, which includes profiles of all the companies that were awarded in Kuwait in 2010. This book will be distributed to chief executives of major companies of different fields in Kuwait and the Middle East.
AUK was awarded based on its strong and consistent branding identity, its name recognition within the local market, its distinct quality of service, promotional and media coverage, as well as the Superbrands' Council's own perceptions of AUK.
Amer El-Assaad, Senior Coordinator for Publications Planning & Design (AUK PR & Marketing Department) accepting the 2010 Superbrands Award from Mr. Mike English, Director of Superbrands Middle East (right), and Mr. Hani Mansour, Brands Liaison Assistant Manager of Superbrands Kuwait
11, Nov 2010
Patriots Club and Discover Kuwait Club hold Lecture on Kuwaiti Constitution
The Patriots Club and the Discover Kuwait Club at the American University of Kuwait held a lecture titled "1962: Sheikh Abdallah Al-Salem's Vision and the Reality" to discuss the birth of the Kuwaiti Constitution and its current state. The lecture took place in the AUK Liberal Arts Auditorium on November 10, 2010. Two important figures in the Kuwaiti political scene were present to speak to the audience about the history and reality of the Kuwaiti Constitution Ghanim Al-Najjar, Professor of Political Science at Kuwait University and long-time human rights activist and Former Member of Parliament Mohammed Al-Sager.
The lecture focused on Kuwaiti democracy and the barriers facing Parliamentarians and the Government. It also focused on the history and birth of the Kuwaiti Constitution and the vision of the Late Amir Sheikh Abdallah Al-Salem.
Patriots Club President Qutaiba Al-Humood and Discover Kuwait Club President Nada Al-Muzaini said that this event is important in highlight the importance of the Kuwaiti Constitution as a tool that citizens must know in order to protect and preserve freedoms and rights of all citizens. They also emphasized the importance of making the younger generation more aware of their rights and responsibilities in order to make them more informed citizens and subsequently more informed voters to build a better Kuwait. The event was sponsored by Al-Markaz Law Firm and Kuwait English School.
The lecture focused on Kuwaiti democracy and the barriers facing Parliamentarians and the Government. It also focused on the history and birth of the Kuwaiti Constitution and the vision of the Late Amir Sheikh Abdallah Al-Salem.
Patriots Club President Qutaiba Al-Humood and Discover Kuwait Club President Nada Al-Muzaini said that this event is important in highlight the importance of the Kuwaiti Constitution as a tool that citizens must know in order to protect and preserve freedoms and rights of all citizens. They also emphasized the importance of making the younger generation more aware of their rights and responsibilities in order to make them more informed citizens and subsequently more informed voters to build a better Kuwait. The event was sponsored by Al-Markaz Law Firm and Kuwait English School.
Left to Right: Former Member of Parliament Mohammed Al-Sager, Patriots Club President Qutaiba Al-Humood & Ghanim Al-Najjar, Professor of Political Science at Kuwait University and long-time human rights activist
A view of the audience
A view of the audience
Showing
10 Articles
of 1461
10, Nov 2010
AUK Students Participate in Nuqat Design Conference at GUST
Seven AUK graphic design majors took part in the two-day 'Nuqat Design Conference' held at Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) on October 24-25, 2010. Mr. Tarek Atrissi, an internationally known graphic designer, lectured and facilitated the two-day session.
The conference and the workshop theme was "Visual Pollution in the Arab World," and explored the notion of social activism and how design can reinforce awareness in our communities.
At the workshop, students conceptualized and created a prototype highlighting the contributing factor in visual pollution such as: signage, shop logos, packaging, supermarket layout, environmental issues, etc. By the end of the second day, students ended up with creative ideas related to the theme "visual pollution." Their solutions tapped the notion of awareness.
One of the AUK students, Sepideh Behebehiai, said of the experience: "In the two-day workshop Tarek taught the students the most important thing any artist or designer could teach and that is how to sustain creativity during the creative process, and that to be able to have a dialogue about the process can help students express their ideas and guide them accordingly. This was a really great experience for me to attend this workshop and meet him."
Another AUK student, Dalal Marafie, said: "The Nuqat experience was very fascinating for me because it made me think of things from another perspective. By another perspective I mean looking at things from a detailed way rather than an overview or a general way. Additionally, I'd never heard of something called visual pollution; however, this term made me think twice of my work. It was very challenging to turn all the bad typography, billboards, ads, signs and much more into something that is unique. Importantly, seeing other students' work made me understand that people sometimes see things I barely notice which was a great turning point to the things I view. Overall, I am very glad I participated I this event."
AUK participants included: Fatima Al-Sughayer, Dalal Marafie, Sepideh Behbehani, Lamia Al-Salahi, Farideh Moradi, Reem Al-Huwaidi and Maha Ali.
The conference and the workshop theme was "Visual Pollution in the Arab World," and explored the notion of social activism and how design can reinforce awareness in our communities.
At the workshop, students conceptualized and created a prototype highlighting the contributing factor in visual pollution such as: signage, shop logos, packaging, supermarket layout, environmental issues, etc. By the end of the second day, students ended up with creative ideas related to the theme "visual pollution." Their solutions tapped the notion of awareness.
One of the AUK students, Sepideh Behebehiai, said of the experience: "In the two-day workshop Tarek taught the students the most important thing any artist or designer could teach and that is how to sustain creativity during the creative process, and that to be able to have a dialogue about the process can help students express their ideas and guide them accordingly. This was a really great experience for me to attend this workshop and meet him."
Another AUK student, Dalal Marafie, said: "The Nuqat experience was very fascinating for me because it made me think of things from another perspective. By another perspective I mean looking at things from a detailed way rather than an overview or a general way. Additionally, I'd never heard of something called visual pollution; however, this term made me think twice of my work. It was very challenging to turn all the bad typography, billboards, ads, signs and much more into something that is unique. Importantly, seeing other students' work made me understand that people sometimes see things I barely notice which was a great turning point to the things I view. Overall, I am very glad I participated I this event."
AUK participants included: Fatima Al-Sughayer, Dalal Marafie, Sepideh Behbehani, Lamia Al-Salahi, Farideh Moradi, Reem Al-Huwaidi and Maha Ali.
Fatima Al-Sughayer - Ezaaj - Visual Pollution
Sepideh Behbehani
Reem Al-Huwaidi - Let's live in a colorful environment
Dalal Marafi + Farideh Moradi + Maha Ali
10, Nov 2010
The American University of Kuwait hosts Anti-violence Forum
The Office of Student Life at the American University of Kuwait held an 'Anti-Violence Forum' on Anti-Violence Day as part of their 5th Annual Social Awareness Week. The forum, which took place on November 3, 2010, involved AUK's Student Success Center and Division of Social Sciences professors and students. An introduction about violence, intimate partner violence, family and violent behavior in children and adolescents, recognizing structural violence, and individual practices toward reducing violence in society were the topics discussed.
Mr. Jason Sullivan is an SSC Mental Health Counselor, with an M.A. in Counseling, RTS Orlando; and a B.A. in Philosophy and Religious Studies, University of Tennessee. In his introduction about violence, he highlighted why awareness is so necessary, as violence appears in many forms. It can be an expression of how we feel, it can be an event acted out on us. It can also be the effect an event has on us, based on our perception of that event, for example, violent storms, Hurricane Katrina and the aftermath. As part of his introduction Mr. Sullivan explained that sometimes violence is used as a means of expression when one's voice is frustrated. It could also be a means of psychological release, both of which are malignant forms of satisfaction. Violence, whether we are acting from it or reacting to it has a large impact on how we see ourselves and how we are seen.
Dr. Juliet Dinkha is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the American University of Kuwait, licensed Clinical Psychologist, and member of the American Psychological Association, holder of Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Illinois School of Professional Psychology (ISPP), and Masters degree in Clinical Psychology also from (ISPP). Dr Dinkha presented on how intimate partner violence identified domestic abuse, also known as spousal abuse, which occurs when one person in an intimate relationship or marriage tries to dominate and control the other. Domestic abuse, including physical violence, is dubbed domestic violence. It could be physical, psychological, emotional, economical, or sexual. She shared with the audience, facts about domestic violence/abuse and how domestic violence/abuse develops or the "Domestic Violence Cycle", highlighting the characteristics that might identify a potential pattern. In her response to audience questions about how to deal with intimate partner violence, Dr. Dinkha said that women who face abuse should not wait until unacceptable behavior is ingrained into the abuser's unconscious and is treated as being 'normal'. Victims should seek counseling or assistance immediately.
Dr. James Rose is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the American University of Kuwait. He received a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from the University of Virginia, and a M.A. degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Chicago. In discussing research on the effects of parenting on aggressive behavior in children and adolescents, Dr. Rose explained that highly aggressive children are more likely to become adults with histories of physical aggression and criminality. Moreover, both the family environment and child's genetics influence the likelihood of the child engaging in criminal and aggressive behavior. Research has found that children with parents who use harsh physical punishment, such as severe spanking, are more aggressive with their peers. This is particularly true when the punishment is impulsive, and when there is a poor relationship between the child and parent. Therefore, parents should refrain from using physical punishment, and use alternative methods of discipline, such as the withdrawing of privileges.
Dr. Pellegrino A. Luciano is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the American University of Kuwait, he received his Ph.D. in Anthropology from the City University of New York. Dr. Luciano discussed the importance of recognizing structural violence, highlighting how understanding the concept of structural violence helps us explain the social causes of physical harm. He argued that violence should not only be thought of in terms of direct acts of physical aggression, but should include the consequences of poverty and inequality as well when it produces physical harm to people. In effect, people who die of malnutrition or disease often do not die because of lack of food or medicine in the world but for political and economic reasons. Decisions made at the institutional level in the form of economic policies can indirectly result in physical harm, or foster a social condition that promotes direct physical harm such as crime or war. Dr. Luciano concluded that recognizing structural violence requires greater social awareness.
Monica Matta, an AUK Student majoring in Business Management and doing a minor in Psychology. Ms. Matta, who works with Dr. Juliet Dinkha as a research assistant, discussed how individuals' common practice can reduce violence in society. This can be achieved by helping yourself first, not being embarrassed to seek support, and reporting violent behavior as soon as it is detected. In addition, she emphasized eliminating violent language from one's vocabulary, refraining from punishing children, and not using violence as a reaction to violence.
Mr. Ayman Shouman the Student Engagement Officer and organizer of the Annual Social Awareness Week, adjourned the forum by presenting to the discussion panel certificates of appreciation as acknowledgment for their valued participation in this interactive learning activity that aimed to raise awareness about violence and its different typologies, and emphasized on how individual practices can reduce violence in society.
Mr. Jason Sullivan is an SSC Mental Health Counselor, with an M.A. in Counseling, RTS Orlando; and a B.A. in Philosophy and Religious Studies, University of Tennessee. In his introduction about violence, he highlighted why awareness is so necessary, as violence appears in many forms. It can be an expression of how we feel, it can be an event acted out on us. It can also be the effect an event has on us, based on our perception of that event, for example, violent storms, Hurricane Katrina and the aftermath. As part of his introduction Mr. Sullivan explained that sometimes violence is used as a means of expression when one's voice is frustrated. It could also be a means of psychological release, both of which are malignant forms of satisfaction. Violence, whether we are acting from it or reacting to it has a large impact on how we see ourselves and how we are seen.
Dr. Juliet Dinkha is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the American University of Kuwait, licensed Clinical Psychologist, and member of the American Psychological Association, holder of Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Illinois School of Professional Psychology (ISPP), and Masters degree in Clinical Psychology also from (ISPP). Dr Dinkha presented on how intimate partner violence identified domestic abuse, also known as spousal abuse, which occurs when one person in an intimate relationship or marriage tries to dominate and control the other. Domestic abuse, including physical violence, is dubbed domestic violence. It could be physical, psychological, emotional, economical, or sexual. She shared with the audience, facts about domestic violence/abuse and how domestic violence/abuse develops or the "Domestic Violence Cycle", highlighting the characteristics that might identify a potential pattern. In her response to audience questions about how to deal with intimate partner violence, Dr. Dinkha said that women who face abuse should not wait until unacceptable behavior is ingrained into the abuser's unconscious and is treated as being 'normal'. Victims should seek counseling or assistance immediately.
Dr. James Rose is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the American University of Kuwait. He received a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from the University of Virginia, and a M.A. degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Chicago. In discussing research on the effects of parenting on aggressive behavior in children and adolescents, Dr. Rose explained that highly aggressive children are more likely to become adults with histories of physical aggression and criminality. Moreover, both the family environment and child's genetics influence the likelihood of the child engaging in criminal and aggressive behavior. Research has found that children with parents who use harsh physical punishment, such as severe spanking, are more aggressive with their peers. This is particularly true when the punishment is impulsive, and when there is a poor relationship between the child and parent. Therefore, parents should refrain from using physical punishment, and use alternative methods of discipline, such as the withdrawing of privileges.
Dr. Pellegrino A. Luciano is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the American University of Kuwait, he received his Ph.D. in Anthropology from the City University of New York. Dr. Luciano discussed the importance of recognizing structural violence, highlighting how understanding the concept of structural violence helps us explain the social causes of physical harm. He argued that violence should not only be thought of in terms of direct acts of physical aggression, but should include the consequences of poverty and inequality as well when it produces physical harm to people. In effect, people who die of malnutrition or disease often do not die because of lack of food or medicine in the world but for political and economic reasons. Decisions made at the institutional level in the form of economic policies can indirectly result in physical harm, or foster a social condition that promotes direct physical harm such as crime or war. Dr. Luciano concluded that recognizing structural violence requires greater social awareness.
Monica Matta, an AUK Student majoring in Business Management and doing a minor in Psychology. Ms. Matta, who works with Dr. Juliet Dinkha as a research assistant, discussed how individuals' common practice can reduce violence in society. This can be achieved by helping yourself first, not being embarrassed to seek support, and reporting violent behavior as soon as it is detected. In addition, she emphasized eliminating violent language from one's vocabulary, refraining from punishing children, and not using violence as a reaction to violence.
Mr. Ayman Shouman the Student Engagement Officer and organizer of the Annual Social Awareness Week, adjourned the forum by presenting to the discussion panel certificates of appreciation as acknowledgment for their valued participation in this interactive learning activity that aimed to raise awareness about violence and its different typologies, and emphasized on how individual practices can reduce violence in society.
Dr. Juliet Dinkha, Associate Professor of Psychology at the American University of Kuwait, presented on how intimate partner violence and how to deal with intimate partner violence
Anti -Violence Forum Audience
Mr. Ayman Shouman the Student Engagement Officer and organizer of the Annual Social Awareness Week, adjourned the forum by presenting to the discussion panel certificates of appreciation. Mr. Jason Sullivan, AUK Mental Health Counselor with the Student Success Center, Dr. Juliet Dinkha, Dr. James Rose Dr. Pellegrino Luciano, and AUK student Monica Matta
09, Nov 2010
AUK hosts 5th Annual Social Awareness Week
The Office of Student Life at the American University of Kuwait organized its 5th Annual Social Awareness Week from October 31st to November 4th, 2010. Each day concentrated on a specific social awareness topic including: Self Image Day, Environmental Day, Healthy Living Day, Anti-Violence Day, and Community Service Day.
Social Awareness Week is one of AUK's annual diversity programs. The week actively encourages and fosters respect for diversity and creates a sense of community. Several AUK clubs and organizations participated throughout the week as well as government and non-governmental organizations from Kuwait. The week's programs strive to promote social responsibility and a sense of community among the AUK population as well as raise awareness among students about issues surrounding social interactions, group dynamics, and civil rights. The active participation of students through the week's diverse programs and activities encourage life-long learning habits, and the development of a unique identity.
During Social Awareness Week's first day, an Identity Development Exhibition titled "Reflection Corner" was organized in association with the Graphic Design Club at AUK to promote self-awareness. Gulf Studies Center Director Professor Mohammad Akbar presented on the 'Development of Social Consciousness'. Mr. Khaled Al Roudhan, a founder of ZAWAYA, shared with AUK students the objectives of ZAWAYA and its campaigns: Oqsim & Moujat Attaghyeer (Wave of Change). These campaigns aim at raising awareness on human and civil values, more specifically, the values of tolerance and pluralism, and respect for others. Programs for the day included an Arabic/English poetry competition between students about 'Self Identity' in association with the Arabic Literature Club at AUK which involved the Division of Humanities and Arts professors; Raymond Farrin, Kathy Nixon, and Al- Khitam Khouli.
On the following day, Environmental Day, the AUK Campus Recycling Project was launched by AUK's Al Akhdar Environmental Club, it was followed by the participation of 38 students in designing environmentally friendly shopping bags. This was judged by Graphic Design Professors Maryam Hosseinnia, and William Andersen. In the evening AUK hosted The Green Caravan Film Festival organized by Equilibrium.
The third day, Healthy Living Day, included the Office of Student Life activity "Arrive Alive" to promote safe driving. The Student Success Center organized its Annual Health Fair on this day as well, which included twenty plus health service providers and more than 300 student participants. Healthy Living Day also saw The Voice of AUK (AUK's official student newspaper) host its 4th Annual Blood Drive for three consecutive days from November 2-4. The Office of Student Life and the Student Success Center co-sponsored the event with giveaways and refreshments. A total of 116 members of the AUK community turned out to donate their blood.
The Anti-Violence Day on Wednesday, in addition to the Anti-Violence Awareness Campaign hosted the week's main event "The Anti-Violence Forum" in association with the Model United Nations Club at AUK. Mr. Jason Sullivan, AUK Mental Health Counselor with the Student Success Center, presented an introduction about violence. Subsequent discussion topics on violence were presented, that included: intimate partner violence (by Dr. Juliet Dinkha), family and violent behavior in children and adolescents (by Dr. James Rose), structural violence (by Dr. Pellegrino Luciano), and common practice towards reducing violence in society (by AUK student Monica Matta).
The final day of Social Awareness Week was Community Service Day. During this day the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Advocates for Western-Arab Relations Center (AWARE), Operation Hope "Trash to Treasure" Project, and Zawaya Campaign, along with Lothan Youth Achievement Center (LOYAC) and Kuwait Association for the Care of Children in Hospitals (KACCH) participated in the Information Resources Fair which was held in association with the Community Service Club at AUK. The fair aimed to highlight community service organizations and their activities to provide an opportunity for AUK students to participate in volunteer activities. In addition, the Office of Student Life hosted its first AUK chat series session allowing for an open discussion with community service individuals which included: Ms. Riham Al-Rashid, UNDP Program Assistant; Ms. Cheryl Spessert, Coordinator of Trash to Treasure/Operation HOPE-Kuwait; Mary Dempsey-Booz, Coordinator of KACCH; and Mrs. Fareah Ahmad Al-Saqqaf, Founder, Vice-Chairperson and Managing Director of LOYAC.
Social Awareness Week is one of AUK's annual diversity programs. The week actively encourages and fosters respect for diversity and creates a sense of community. Several AUK clubs and organizations participated throughout the week as well as government and non-governmental organizations from Kuwait. The week's programs strive to promote social responsibility and a sense of community among the AUK population as well as raise awareness among students about issues surrounding social interactions, group dynamics, and civil rights. The active participation of students through the week's diverse programs and activities encourage life-long learning habits, and the development of a unique identity.
During Social Awareness Week's first day, an Identity Development Exhibition titled "Reflection Corner" was organized in association with the Graphic Design Club at AUK to promote self-awareness. Gulf Studies Center Director Professor Mohammad Akbar presented on the 'Development of Social Consciousness'. Mr. Khaled Al Roudhan, a founder of ZAWAYA, shared with AUK students the objectives of ZAWAYA and its campaigns: Oqsim & Moujat Attaghyeer (Wave of Change). These campaigns aim at raising awareness on human and civil values, more specifically, the values of tolerance and pluralism, and respect for others. Programs for the day included an Arabic/English poetry competition between students about 'Self Identity' in association with the Arabic Literature Club at AUK which involved the Division of Humanities and Arts professors; Raymond Farrin, Kathy Nixon, and Al- Khitam Khouli.
On the following day, Environmental Day, the AUK Campus Recycling Project was launched by AUK's Al Akhdar Environmental Club, it was followed by the participation of 38 students in designing environmentally friendly shopping bags. This was judged by Graphic Design Professors Maryam Hosseinnia, and William Andersen. In the evening AUK hosted The Green Caravan Film Festival organized by Equilibrium.
The third day, Healthy Living Day, included the Office of Student Life activity "Arrive Alive" to promote safe driving. The Student Success Center organized its Annual Health Fair on this day as well, which included twenty plus health service providers and more than 300 student participants. Healthy Living Day also saw The Voice of AUK (AUK's official student newspaper) host its 4th Annual Blood Drive for three consecutive days from November 2-4. The Office of Student Life and the Student Success Center co-sponsored the event with giveaways and refreshments. A total of 116 members of the AUK community turned out to donate their blood.
The Anti-Violence Day on Wednesday, in addition to the Anti-Violence Awareness Campaign hosted the week's main event "The Anti-Violence Forum" in association with the Model United Nations Club at AUK. Mr. Jason Sullivan, AUK Mental Health Counselor with the Student Success Center, presented an introduction about violence. Subsequent discussion topics on violence were presented, that included: intimate partner violence (by Dr. Juliet Dinkha), family and violent behavior in children and adolescents (by Dr. James Rose), structural violence (by Dr. Pellegrino Luciano), and common practice towards reducing violence in society (by AUK student Monica Matta).
The final day of Social Awareness Week was Community Service Day. During this day the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Advocates for Western-Arab Relations Center (AWARE), Operation Hope "Trash to Treasure" Project, and Zawaya Campaign, along with Lothan Youth Achievement Center (LOYAC) and Kuwait Association for the Care of Children in Hospitals (KACCH) participated in the Information Resources Fair which was held in association with the Community Service Club at AUK. The fair aimed to highlight community service organizations and their activities to provide an opportunity for AUK students to participate in volunteer activities. In addition, the Office of Student Life hosted its first AUK chat series session allowing for an open discussion with community service individuals which included: Ms. Riham Al-Rashid, UNDP Program Assistant; Ms. Cheryl Spessert, Coordinator of Trash to Treasure/Operation HOPE-Kuwait; Mary Dempsey-Booz, Coordinator of KACCH; and Mrs. Fareah Ahmad Al-Saqqaf, Founder, Vice-Chairperson and Managing Director of LOYAC.
Mr. Khaled Al Roudhan, a founder of ZAWAYA, sharing with AUK students the objectives of ZAWAYA and its campaigns: Oqsim & Moujat Attaghyeer
1st place Winners of the Arabic/English poetry competition
Designing environmentally friendly shopping bags, judged by Graphic Design Professors: Maryam Hosseinnia, and William Andersen
Designing environmentally friendly shopping bags, judged by Graphic Design Professors: Maryam Hosseinnia, and William Andersen
Environmental Day the AUK Campus Recycling Project launched by Al Akhdar Environmental Club
The Voice of AUK (AUK's official student newspaper) started its 4th Annual Blood Drive for three consecutive days
The Voice of AUK (AUK's official student newspaper) started its 4th Annual Blood Drive for three consecutive days
Mr. Jason Sullivan - SSC mental health counselor during his introduction about Violence
Amy Kushner ,Career Counselor, Student Success Center in Trash to Treasure/ Operation HOPE-Kuwait during, and a volunteer student from Community Service Club during Community Service Day
08, Nov 2010
AUK Hosts First Biannual President's Exhibition
The American University of Kuwait held its first Biannual President's Exhibition Tuesday November 2, 2010 in the AUK President's Office. Selected works by Introduction to Oil Painting and Drawing II students were presented at a reception hosted by AUK President Winfred Thompson, where ART and Graphic Design faculty, students' parents, and department heads also attended.
The President's Exhibition is a new event at AUK and is designed to recognize and showcase exceptional student artwork from Studio Art and Graphic Design. Twice each year, students will compete for a place in the exhibition at the invitation of Studio Art and Graphic Design professors. Artwork submitted for selection must be made during the preceding 12 months as part of regular in-class work. The President's Exhibition is curated by Art History and Studio Art Professor Sharon Orleans Lawrence and Graphic Design Professor Marcella Kulchitsky.
"We appreciate President Thompson's willingness to get involved with students in such a personal way," Professor Lawrence said. "What a great opportunity-for six months, he and everyone who visits his office will view our students' best efforts." Equally complimentary of the President's Exhibition, Dr. Craig Loomis, Head of the Humanities and Arts Division said, "President Thompson has given us an exciting new venue for student work. It is an honor for our students to have their artwork selected for inclusion in his exhibition."
The President's Exhibition is a new event at AUK and is designed to recognize and showcase exceptional student artwork from Studio Art and Graphic Design. Twice each year, students will compete for a place in the exhibition at the invitation of Studio Art and Graphic Design professors. Artwork submitted for selection must be made during the preceding 12 months as part of regular in-class work. The President's Exhibition is curated by Art History and Studio Art Professor Sharon Orleans Lawrence and Graphic Design Professor Marcella Kulchitsky.
"We appreciate President Thompson's willingness to get involved with students in such a personal way," Professor Lawrence said. "What a great opportunity-for six months, he and everyone who visits his office will view our students' best efforts." Equally complimentary of the President's Exhibition, Dr. Craig Loomis, Head of the Humanities and Arts Division said, "President Thompson has given us an exciting new venue for student work. It is an honor for our students to have their artwork selected for inclusion in his exhibition."
Professor Marcella Kulchitsky, President Thompson and Professor Sharon Orleans Lawrence
Dr. Simon O'Meara studying the artwork
Student artist Aisha Al-Jiran with her artwork and the artwork of other students
Student artist Alia Musafa Aref with her artwork
The event was attended by AUK community
Samples of the students' work on display
08, Nov 2010
The Voice of AUK Holds 4th Annual Blood Drive
As part of the Office of Student Life's 5th Annual Social Awareness Week and in conjunction with the Student Success Center's Health Fair, The Voice of AUK, AUK's official student newspaper, held its 4th Annual Blood Drive for three consecutive days on November 2nd, 3rd, and 4th from 11 am to 5 pm in the Multipurpose Room. A total of 116 members of the AUK community turned out to donate their blood. The Office of Student Life and the Student Success Center sponsored the event with giveaways and refreshments.
The Voice of AUK provided a registration booth for two weeks, one in the Liberal Arts building and the other in the Sciences building, to have the AUK community sign up for donating blood and they were provided with relevant information about the donation process, who can/cannot donate blood, tips for a successful donation, and answers to frequently asked questions about blood donations so that they may fully prepare for it. As always, the Kuwait Central Blood Bank was invited to carry out the donations and was accompanied by a specialized team of doctors and nurses to ensure everything ran smoothly.
On the days of the Blood Drive, the Multi-purpose room was organized into several stations: registration (filling in a questionnaire and getting registered into the system), mini-physical test (a blood test conducted by the Blood Bank staff to ensure whether an individual's blood is at the right hemoglobin level and thus determining final eligibility), the actual blood donation (women had a segregated space), refreshments (important for donors to revitalize themselves as they may feel somewhat drowsy afterwards), and complementary giveaways to donors. Copies of the latest Voice of AUK issue were also made available.
The Voice of AUK provided a registration booth for two weeks, one in the Liberal Arts building and the other in the Sciences building, to have the AUK community sign up for donating blood and they were provided with relevant information about the donation process, who can/cannot donate blood, tips for a successful donation, and answers to frequently asked questions about blood donations so that they may fully prepare for it. As always, the Kuwait Central Blood Bank was invited to carry out the donations and was accompanied by a specialized team of doctors and nurses to ensure everything ran smoothly.
On the days of the Blood Drive, the Multi-purpose room was organized into several stations: registration (filling in a questionnaire and getting registered into the system), mini-physical test (a blood test conducted by the Blood Bank staff to ensure whether an individual's blood is at the right hemoglobin level and thus determining final eligibility), the actual blood donation (women had a segregated space), refreshments (important for donors to revitalize themselves as they may feel somewhat drowsy afterwards), and complementary giveaways to donors. Copies of the latest Voice of AUK issue were also made available.
Members and Volunteers of the Voice of AUK
A student taking the blood test before donating
A student preparing to donate
Images from the Blood Drive
01, Nov 2010
Twelfth Biannual Board of Trustees Meeting
The Board of Trustees of the American University of Kuwait met early on Sunday and Monday the 24th and 25th of October 2010 on the AUK Campus in Salmiya. The first day the Academic Affairs Committee adjourned, where Board members met with senior administrators of AUK to discuss the College of Arts and Sciences Semester Report as well as the Intensive English Program Semester Report. In the evening Board Members attended the AUK-Dartmouth Recital were students and faculty from both universities performed a variety of classical pieces.
Official Trustee engagements began early Monday morning where Acting Chair Mr. Meshal Ali on behalf of Shaikha Dana Nasser Al-Sabah, welcomed AUK's new President Dr. Winfred Thompson. He then presented his report, followed by the Report of the Academic Affairs Committee, Student Affairs Report and finally the Dartmouth-AUK Report. The Board also welcomed a new member, former AUK Interim President Dr. Tim Sullivan.
Official Trustee engagements began early Monday morning where Acting Chair Mr. Meshal Ali on behalf of Shaikha Dana Nasser Al-Sabah, welcomed AUK's new President Dr. Winfred Thompson. He then presented his report, followed by the Report of the Academic Affairs Committee, Student Affairs Report and finally the Dartmouth-AUK Report. The Board also welcomed a new member, former AUK Interim President Dr. Tim Sullivan.
28, Oct 2010
AUK-Dartmouth Music Recital: An International Celebration of Talent
The Music Program of the American University of Kuwait (AUK) and Dartmouth College, one of the premiere "Ivy League" universities in the USA, presented a collaborative music recital at 7pm on Sunday, October 24th in the AUK Auditorium Liberal Arts Building, Salmiya Campus. Advanced student musicians from both distinguished institutions, accompanied by faculty, performed vocal and instrumental solo and chamber works, demonstrating the great potential for continued cultural collaboration between AUK and Dartmouth.
The recital was well attended by the public, AUK students, faculty and staff as well as members of the AUK Board of Trustees and the Dartmouth-AUK Relationship Coordinator Dr. Dale Eickelman as well as Executive Director of the Dartmouth College-AUK Project Laurel Stavis. AUK President Dr. Winfred Thompson gave a short welcoming speech where he stressed the importance of music as an international language.
Dr. Lisa Urkevich, Coordinator of the AUK Music Program, said "We were so pleased by the positive response we received following the 3rd AUK-Dartmouth recital on Sunday evening. The audience was enthralled by the impressive program that included not only challenging compositions, but much instrumental variety. I am delighted to say that once again, both the talent and collaborative spirit of AUK and Dartmouth College produced a brilliant evening."
Encouraged by the success of the First and Second Dartmouth-AUK recitals last year, this concert featured a variety of vocal and ensemble pieces, including violin, flute, and piano, featuring the compositions of Rachmaninoff, Beethoven, Chopin, and Mozart, among others.
Laurel Stavis said, "It is gratifying to see how these concerts have become a tradition at AUK. Traditions symbolize the vitality of universities. The AUK- Dartmouth Concerts are a vivid example of how strong traditions bring the entire university community together."
The recital was well attended by the public, AUK students, faculty and staff as well as members of the AUK Board of Trustees and the Dartmouth-AUK Relationship Coordinator Dr. Dale Eickelman as well as Executive Director of the Dartmouth College-AUK Project Laurel Stavis. AUK President Dr. Winfred Thompson gave a short welcoming speech where he stressed the importance of music as an international language.
Dr. Lisa Urkevich, Coordinator of the AUK Music Program, said "We were so pleased by the positive response we received following the 3rd AUK-Dartmouth recital on Sunday evening. The audience was enthralled by the impressive program that included not only challenging compositions, but much instrumental variety. I am delighted to say that once again, both the talent and collaborative spirit of AUK and Dartmouth College produced a brilliant evening."
Encouraged by the success of the First and Second Dartmouth-AUK recitals last year, this concert featured a variety of vocal and ensemble pieces, including violin, flute, and piano, featuring the compositions of Rachmaninoff, Beethoven, Chopin, and Mozart, among others.
Laurel Stavis said, "It is gratifying to see how these concerts have become a tradition at AUK. Traditions symbolize the vitality of universities. The AUK- Dartmouth Concerts are a vivid example of how strong traditions bring the entire university community together."
Dr. Lisa Urkevich, Coordinator of the AUK Music Program, presenting the concert
AUK President: Dr. Winfred Thompson
A duet classical performance for Christina Chen(piano) and Sara Soliman (Flute)
From Left: Elena Tsenkova (Piano), Anna Karadimitrova (vocal)
From Left: Elena Tsenkova (Piano), Anna Karadimitrova (vocal), Markovic Dragan (Violin), Dagmara Bienias (Flute), Sara Soliman (Flute)
From Left: Anna Karadimitrova, Samih Damerji Ali H Atesh, Christina Chin (Piano), Markovic Dragan (Violin), Salem Al Mathkour (Violin)
A group Performance of classical works
A group photo of the performers with The AUK President, Board of Trustees, Representatives of Dartmouth College, Dean of Arts &Sciences, and Coordinator of the Music Program
24, Oct 2010
AUK Hosts First Kuwait National Collegiate Programming Contest
The American University of Kuwait's Sciences and Engineering Division hosted the 1st Kuwait National Collegiate Programming Contest - Q8CPC, on October 14 -16 2010 sponsored by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences - KFAS.
Q8CPC is part of the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) the world's oldest and most prestigious programming contest for universities.
The competition was launched on October 14 with an opening ceremony, followed by teams' introduction and a practice session. Ten teams participated in total from the following four universities: Kuwait University with four teams, the American University of Kuwait (AUK) and Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) with two teams each, in addition to two teams from Arab Open University (AOU).
The contest was held on October16, where the teams competed for five hours aiming to write software systems that solve as many problems as possible from the given problem set. Each team consists of three students collaborating on understanding, solving, and coding programs using a single computer. The contest tests the teams' abilities in problem solving, resource management and working under stress.
The race was tight from the beginning of the contest. Different teams from all universities exchanged the top three positions throughout the five hours. The contest ended with three teams solving six out of the eight given problems. The top three teams were ranked according to the time taken to solve the problems. One of the teams from Kuwait University was ranked first, followed by a team from GUST with AUK grabbing the third position. A team from AOU solved 5 problems ranking fourth amongst the remaining seven teams.
By organizing this contest, the American University of Kuwait aims at raising the awareness on the importance of such academic competitions giving students the chance to learn in a competitive yet collaborative environment that is hard to achieve in regular classroom setting. In addition, this competition encourages the participation of Kuwaiti universities in the ACM Arab Collegiate Programming Contest (ACPC) that has been annually held since 1998. This year the regional will be hosted by the Lebanese American University (LAU) in Beirut this coming November where AUK plans to send two teams.
Q8CPC is part of the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) the world's oldest and most prestigious programming contest for universities.
The competition was launched on October 14 with an opening ceremony, followed by teams' introduction and a practice session. Ten teams participated in total from the following four universities: Kuwait University with four teams, the American University of Kuwait (AUK) and Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) with two teams each, in addition to two teams from Arab Open University (AOU).
The contest was held on October16, where the teams competed for five hours aiming to write software systems that solve as many problems as possible from the given problem set. Each team consists of three students collaborating on understanding, solving, and coding programs using a single computer. The contest tests the teams' abilities in problem solving, resource management and working under stress.
The race was tight from the beginning of the contest. Different teams from all universities exchanged the top three positions throughout the five hours. The contest ended with three teams solving six out of the eight given problems. The top three teams were ranked according to the time taken to solve the problems. One of the teams from Kuwait University was ranked first, followed by a team from GUST with AUK grabbing the third position. A team from AOU solved 5 problems ranking fourth amongst the remaining seven teams.
By organizing this contest, the American University of Kuwait aims at raising the awareness on the importance of such academic competitions giving students the chance to learn in a competitive yet collaborative environment that is hard to achieve in regular classroom setting. In addition, this competition encourages the participation of Kuwaiti universities in the ACM Arab Collegiate Programming Contest (ACPC) that has been annually held since 1998. This year the regional will be hosted by the Lebanese American University (LAU) in Beirut this coming November where AUK plans to send two teams.
One of AUK's teams: Wael El-Hamady, Ali Taqi, and Omar El-Khatib
Group photo of Q8CPC participants and volunteers
AUK winning third place. Left to right: Dr. Ziad Najem Regional Contest Director, Omar El-Khatib contestant, Dr. Jassim Al-Bishara Director of Scientific Culture Division at Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), Dr. Shereef AbulMaati Division Head of the Sciences and Engineering Division at AUK, Dima AbuRshaid contest Manager and coach of AUK team, Dr. Nizar Hamza Dean of the Academic Affairs at AUK, Wael El-Hamady contestant, and Ali Taqi, contestant
GUST winning second place. Left to right bottom up: Dr. Ziad Najem Regional Contest Director, Dr. Jassim Al-Bishara Director of Scientific Culture Division at Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), Dr. Shereef AbulMaati Division Head of the Sciences and Engineering Division at AUK, Dr. Nizar Hamza Dean of the Academic Affairs at AUK, Shoug Al-Fadhli contestant, Reda Makarem contestant, Abdulraheem Taha, and Taher Ali coach
Team winning first place from Kuwait University. Left to Right: Dr. Ziad Najem Regional Contest Director, Husain BuHamad contestant, Al-Mazyad Abduljalil contestant, Dr. Jassim Al-Bishara Director of Scientific Culture Division at Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), Jafar Abdulrasoul contestant, Dr. Shereef AbulMaati Division Head of the Sciences and Engineering Division at AUK, Dr. Nizar Hamza Dean of the Academic Affairs at AUK, Dr. Bader Al-Bader coach
