News
04, Mar 2009
AUK hosts a lecture on Milestones in Kuwait's History
The Gulf Studies Center at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) hosted a lecture on Tuesday February 23 by Dr. Maymounah Al-Khalifa Al-Sabah, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Kuwait University (KU) and the President of the Historical Society of Kuwait. Dr. Al-Sabah specializes in the Arabian Gulf modern and contemporary history, she is a well known Kuwaiti historian with more than 5 volumes on the history of Kuwait.
In her first visit to AUK, Dr. Al-Sabah tackled three major topics: important turning points in the history of Kuwait, the first generation of leaders' role in building the modern state, and the current generation's responsibility in shaping the future of the nation.
Dr. Al-Sabah stated that extensive research by historians on the topic of the existence of Kuwait and its structure as an independent country has shown that it was never under any political systems in the modern age. Dr. Al-Sabah also pointed out that there was evidence confirming the establishment of Kuwait as a country as early as the year 1613 AD when the small castle with twenty cannons, that was known by the name of "Al Kout" was established and as the artifacts of Alexander the Great on Failika attest. The lecturer noted that it was built by the Al-Sabah family, who settled with the tribes of Anza and lived together in the area which surrounded the castle.
The whole coast was apparently called Al-Kareen, and some fishermen and Bedouin travelers who moved around searching for water and land lived in the area. Although some believe that Bani Khaled were the first rulers of Kuwait, the lecturer pointed out that there was evidence that proved that Al-Sabah were the first to rule Kuwait and that the relationship that tied them with Bani Khaled resembled a very strong alliance formed on the basis of a strong friendship. However, Al-Sabah were not under the power of Bani Khaled.
Dr. Al-Sabah stressed that claims that Kuwait was just a part of Iraq were proven false and were developed by the late Iraqi ruler Saddam Hussein. Since Kuwait's inception, she asserted, the country has not lawfully been under the sovereignty of any other foreign power and that it was not a part of the Ottoman Empire that was ruling Iraq at the time. "The people of Kuwait are known for being fiercely proud and protective of their freedom," Al-Sabah declared, citing the writings of numerous historical scholars including V S Naipaul. "Kuwait's independent sovereignty has always been of paramount importance to its people and its rulers," she continued.
Al-Sabah then narrated the many stages of Kuwait's history in which it resisted any kind of foreign control. Throughout history, when Kuwait would sign an accord with a more powerful or influential entity, as they did with the Ottoman Empire or the United Kingdom, such agreements were only ratified to preserve and protect the nation and never to secede its lands or sovereignty in any way. As for any claims by Iraq's supposed sovereignty over Kuwait, Al-Sabah dismissed those claims as completely baseless and unworthy of mention as numerous historic documents from within and outside Kuwait can attest.
For his part, Head of the Gulf Studies Center at AUK Dr. Hesham Al-Awadi who was hosting the lecture announced that starting this semester, AUK will be offering a course titled "Kuwait Modern History" to be studied in English, and that the University was looking forward to working with the Literature Department at KU to develop student and academic exchange between the two institutions.
History is a way of knowing the past, seeing the present and visualizing the future, remarked Dr. Al-Sabah, she then emphasized the importance of preserving Kuwait's history, and her pride that a course on the history of Kuwait is now a requirement at Kuwait University. She expressed her hope that a similar course will eventually become a part of the required curriculum at all universities in Kuwait.
"I hope for more interest in the history of Kuwait; I really feel that Kuwait's history is not always given its proper due," Al-Sabah stated. She articulated her commitment to the cause of history. "The entire Historical Society of Kuwait is in service of Kuwait's history and we welcome any students to benefit from our knowledge. We hope that they will eventually feel as passionate about history as we do," she said.
At the conclusion of the event, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Nizar Hamzeh presented Dr. Al-Sabah with a crystal plaque on behalf of AUK's Board of Trustees to show their appreciation for what he described as an invaluable lecture.
In her first visit to AUK, Dr. Al-Sabah tackled three major topics: important turning points in the history of Kuwait, the first generation of leaders' role in building the modern state, and the current generation's responsibility in shaping the future of the nation.
Dr. Al-Sabah stated that extensive research by historians on the topic of the existence of Kuwait and its structure as an independent country has shown that it was never under any political systems in the modern age. Dr. Al-Sabah also pointed out that there was evidence confirming the establishment of Kuwait as a country as early as the year 1613 AD when the small castle with twenty cannons, that was known by the name of "Al Kout" was established and as the artifacts of Alexander the Great on Failika attest. The lecturer noted that it was built by the Al-Sabah family, who settled with the tribes of Anza and lived together in the area which surrounded the castle.
The whole coast was apparently called Al-Kareen, and some fishermen and Bedouin travelers who moved around searching for water and land lived in the area. Although some believe that Bani Khaled were the first rulers of Kuwait, the lecturer pointed out that there was evidence that proved that Al-Sabah were the first to rule Kuwait and that the relationship that tied them with Bani Khaled resembled a very strong alliance formed on the basis of a strong friendship. However, Al-Sabah were not under the power of Bani Khaled.
Dr. Al-Sabah stressed that claims that Kuwait was just a part of Iraq were proven false and were developed by the late Iraqi ruler Saddam Hussein. Since Kuwait's inception, she asserted, the country has not lawfully been under the sovereignty of any other foreign power and that it was not a part of the Ottoman Empire that was ruling Iraq at the time. "The people of Kuwait are known for being fiercely proud and protective of their freedom," Al-Sabah declared, citing the writings of numerous historical scholars including V S Naipaul. "Kuwait's independent sovereignty has always been of paramount importance to its people and its rulers," she continued.
Al-Sabah then narrated the many stages of Kuwait's history in which it resisted any kind of foreign control. Throughout history, when Kuwait would sign an accord with a more powerful or influential entity, as they did with the Ottoman Empire or the United Kingdom, such agreements were only ratified to preserve and protect the nation and never to secede its lands or sovereignty in any way. As for any claims by Iraq's supposed sovereignty over Kuwait, Al-Sabah dismissed those claims as completely baseless and unworthy of mention as numerous historic documents from within and outside Kuwait can attest.
For his part, Head of the Gulf Studies Center at AUK Dr. Hesham Al-Awadi who was hosting the lecture announced that starting this semester, AUK will be offering a course titled "Kuwait Modern History" to be studied in English, and that the University was looking forward to working with the Literature Department at KU to develop student and academic exchange between the two institutions.
History is a way of knowing the past, seeing the present and visualizing the future, remarked Dr. Al-Sabah, she then emphasized the importance of preserving Kuwait's history, and her pride that a course on the history of Kuwait is now a requirement at Kuwait University. She expressed her hope that a similar course will eventually become a part of the required curriculum at all universities in Kuwait.
"I hope for more interest in the history of Kuwait; I really feel that Kuwait's history is not always given its proper due," Al-Sabah stated. She articulated her commitment to the cause of history. "The entire Historical Society of Kuwait is in service of Kuwait's history and we welcome any students to benefit from our knowledge. We hope that they will eventually feel as passionate about history as we do," she said.
At the conclusion of the event, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Nizar Hamzeh presented Dr. Al-Sabah with a crystal plaque on behalf of AUK's Board of Trustees to show their appreciation for what he described as an invaluable lecture.
Dr. Maymounah Al-Khalifa Al-Sabah, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Kuwait University (KU) and the President of the Historical Society of Kuwait
03, Mar 2009
Dartmouth Appoints New President
Dedicated educator and humanitarian has provided visionary leadership in academia, public policy, and global health continues long tradition of Dartmouth Presidents who have had significant impact on the world stage and in the classroom.
Jim Yong Kim, M.D., Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School, has been elected the 17th President of Dartmouth by the College's Board of Trustees. Ed Haldeman, Chair of Dartmouth's Board of Trustees, announced the appointment at a meeting of students, faculty and staff.
Dr. Kim, 49, will take office on July 1, 2009 and succeeds James Wright, who previously announced that he is stepping down in June after 11 years as President of the College.
"Jim Yong Kim embodies the ideals of learning, innovation, and service that lie at the heart of Dartmouth's mission," Haldeman said. "As a passionate educator and physician, he has had a profound impact on students, faculty, colleagues and fellow health professionals. And as a leader in the field of global health, Jim has helped to transform efforts to bring health care to the world's poor. Jim follows in the long tradition of Dartmouth presidents who have made a significant mark both in higher education and on the world stage, and we are confident he is the ideal person to lead the College in today's rapidly changing environment."
Dr. Kim trained as both a physician and anthropologist, receiving his M.D. and Ph.D. from Harvard University. He graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. from Brown University in 1982. A former senior official at the World Health Organization and co-founder of Partners In Health, he is internationally acknowledged for his leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and other diseases. In 2004, in recognition of his many accomplishments, he was elected to the prestigious Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences.
Dr. Kim said, "I am honored and humbled to accept this role, and look forward to building on the many achievements of Jim Wright and his predecessors that have made Dartmouth the vibrant, world-class institution it is today. Dartmouth is a unique and special place with a powerful sense of community. The educational opportunities it offers, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, are exceptional, and the loyalty and passion of its alumni, faculty, staff and students are unrivaled. I could not be more excited about this opportunity to help build on Dartmouth's great traditions as well as its singular role in higher education."
President-elect Kim is only the 17th president in the Wheelock Succession of leaders since Eleazar Wheelock founded Dartmouth College in 1769. Born in Seoul, Korea, he is also the first Asian American to be appointed President of an Ivy League school.
In addition to his role as Chair of the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Kim is Chief of the Division of Global Health Equity at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, a major Harvard teaching hospital, and Director of the Francois-Xavier Bagnoud Center for Health and Human Rights at the Harvard School of Public Health. He continues to teach undergraduate classes alongside his administrative responsibilities, development activities, writings and other academic and clinical contributions. His classes today are enormously popular and constantly oversubscribed and he plans to continue to teach undergraduates at Dartmouth.
President Wright described Dr. Kim's election as "a proud and defining moment in Dartmouth's history."
Dr. Kim has 20 years of experience in improving health in developing countries. He is a founding trustee and the former executive director of Partners In Health, a not-for-profit organization that supports a range of health programs in poor communities worldwide. In 2004, he was appointed Director of the HIV/AIDS Department at the World Health Organization, where he launched an initiative to dramatically expand access to HIV/AIDS treatment in low- and middle-income countries. By 2007, the initiative had helped to provide lifesaving antiretroviral therapy to approximately three million people worldwide and had accelerated global efforts to fight other diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria.
Dartmouth College enrolls approximately 4,100 undergraduates in the liberal arts and 1,700 graduate students. Drawing faculty and students from around the world, Dartmouth is committed to advancing the principles of liberal education within a diverse community of students, teachers and scholars. In addition to 19 graduate programs in the arts and sciences, it is home to the nation's fourth-oldest medical school: the Dartmouth Medical School, founded in 1797; the nation's first professional school of engineering: the Thayer School of Engineering, founded in 1867; and the first graduate school of management in the world: the Tuck School of Business, established in 1900.
Since 2003, Dartmouth and the American University of Kuwait have worked together under the terms of an agreement that allows Dartmouth to play an advisory role in helping to build the new university. The two institutions have developed a flourishing relationship that involves faculty, students, and staff.
Article courtesy of Dartmouth College Office of Public Affairs.
Jim Yong Kim, M.D., Ph.D., Chair of the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School, has been elected the 17th President of Dartmouth by the College's Board of Trustees. Ed Haldeman, Chair of Dartmouth's Board of Trustees, announced the appointment at a meeting of students, faculty and staff.
Dr. Kim, 49, will take office on July 1, 2009 and succeeds James Wright, who previously announced that he is stepping down in June after 11 years as President of the College.
"Jim Yong Kim embodies the ideals of learning, innovation, and service that lie at the heart of Dartmouth's mission," Haldeman said. "As a passionate educator and physician, he has had a profound impact on students, faculty, colleagues and fellow health professionals. And as a leader in the field of global health, Jim has helped to transform efforts to bring health care to the world's poor. Jim follows in the long tradition of Dartmouth presidents who have made a significant mark both in higher education and on the world stage, and we are confident he is the ideal person to lead the College in today's rapidly changing environment."
Dr. Kim trained as both a physician and anthropologist, receiving his M.D. and Ph.D. from Harvard University. He graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. from Brown University in 1982. A former senior official at the World Health Organization and co-founder of Partners In Health, he is internationally acknowledged for his leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and other diseases. In 2004, in recognition of his many accomplishments, he was elected to the prestigious Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences.
Dr. Kim said, "I am honored and humbled to accept this role, and look forward to building on the many achievements of Jim Wright and his predecessors that have made Dartmouth the vibrant, world-class institution it is today. Dartmouth is a unique and special place with a powerful sense of community. The educational opportunities it offers, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, are exceptional, and the loyalty and passion of its alumni, faculty, staff and students are unrivaled. I could not be more excited about this opportunity to help build on Dartmouth's great traditions as well as its singular role in higher education."
President-elect Kim is only the 17th president in the Wheelock Succession of leaders since Eleazar Wheelock founded Dartmouth College in 1769. Born in Seoul, Korea, he is also the first Asian American to be appointed President of an Ivy League school.
In addition to his role as Chair of the Department of Global Health and Social Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Kim is Chief of the Division of Global Health Equity at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, a major Harvard teaching hospital, and Director of the Francois-Xavier Bagnoud Center for Health and Human Rights at the Harvard School of Public Health. He continues to teach undergraduate classes alongside his administrative responsibilities, development activities, writings and other academic and clinical contributions. His classes today are enormously popular and constantly oversubscribed and he plans to continue to teach undergraduates at Dartmouth.
President Wright described Dr. Kim's election as "a proud and defining moment in Dartmouth's history."
Dr. Kim has 20 years of experience in improving health in developing countries. He is a founding trustee and the former executive director of Partners In Health, a not-for-profit organization that supports a range of health programs in poor communities worldwide. In 2004, he was appointed Director of the HIV/AIDS Department at the World Health Organization, where he launched an initiative to dramatically expand access to HIV/AIDS treatment in low- and middle-income countries. By 2007, the initiative had helped to provide lifesaving antiretroviral therapy to approximately three million people worldwide and had accelerated global efforts to fight other diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria.
Dartmouth College enrolls approximately 4,100 undergraduates in the liberal arts and 1,700 graduate students. Drawing faculty and students from around the world, Dartmouth is committed to advancing the principles of liberal education within a diverse community of students, teachers and scholars. In addition to 19 graduate programs in the arts and sciences, it is home to the nation's fourth-oldest medical school: the Dartmouth Medical School, founded in 1797; the nation's first professional school of engineering: the Thayer School of Engineering, founded in 1867; and the first graduate school of management in the world: the Tuck School of Business, established in 1900.
Since 2003, Dartmouth and the American University of Kuwait have worked together under the terms of an agreement that allows Dartmouth to play an advisory role in helping to build the new university. The two institutions have developed a flourishing relationship that involves faculty, students, and staff.
Article courtesy of Dartmouth College Office of Public Affairs.
Dr. Jim Yong Kim (Copyright © WHO/P.Virot February 2005 Pierre Virot)
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01, Mar 2009
AUK in the Dartmouth Media
Learning Together Across Cultures and Time Zones
Early on a blustery November morning, a group of Dartmouth students arrives at Baker Library to prepare for a unique educational exchange. They and their counterparts at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) are about to go to class together. It's 7:45 a.m. in Hanover and 4:45 p.m. in the Persian Gulf, but the students will see and speak with each other in real time using web-based videoconference technology. The sessions are made possible by a partnership between Dartmouth and AUK, which was founded in 2003 as Kuwait's first liberal arts university.
This is the second time this particular group of students has met in this way And-because their first conversation was so intense and extended well beyond the allotted time-they have decided to devote at least two hours to this conversation.
The students at AUK are in two classes taught by Assistant Professor of English Language and Literature Rawda Awwad. They are studying "Europe and Islam" and "Women and Literature." On the Dartmouth end, Professor Dale Eickelman has assembled a group from two of his anthropology classes, one that focuses on the political uses of the field and the other on anthropological approaches to Islam. The students are prepared to discuss whether modernity is synonymous with Westernization, and what role the media plays in shaping cultural perceptions.
Web-based videoconferencing takes place in Baker Library within the Dartmouth Center for the Advancement of Learning (DCAL), a state-of-the-art facility used by faculty to improve their teaching techniques, to bring groups of scholars together to discuss ongoing research, and to host seminars. The AUK students gather in a similar facility on their campus.
There are no country codes or telephone numbers involved. Instead, one institution dials in to the other's Internet Protocol (IP) address. They are on opposite sides of the world, but once the connection is made, students instantly see and hear each other. Asking questions, responding-even arguing-it's as though they are all participating in a seminar in the same room.
But this is no ordinary discussion. Students at both AUK and Dartmouth sense that their conversations represent an opportunity to connect in ways that could make all the difference, and they are eager to make that happen. "I leave these sessions feeling the urge to continuously seek every opportunity that will help me better understand the global state of affairs, tolerate diverse views, and figure out how I can contribute to bridging the widening gap between 'East' and 'West,'" says AUK student Dina El-Zohairy.
Matthew Forman '11 of New York says, "To see students from a remarkably different background pursuing the same kind of education we are here at Dartmouth is so gratifying. If we can come together to engage in debate and scholarly discourse, surely our political leaders can find common ground."
In a very real sense, the sessions between students symbolize the true significance of the Dartmouth-AUK partnership. The students acknowledge that these conversations-difficult though they sometimes are-could only take place when there is a deep sense of trust between individuals and institutions.
"This is a necessary challenge," adds Professor Awwad, "to the way we are used to teaching, and may lead to a truly global pedagogical practice. Videoconferencing enables a dialog that goes far beyond a mere exchange of ideas. It facilitates the potential for future discussions that are, in every way imaginable, honest and useful."
Professor Eickelman explains that the videoconferences were initially considered a resource to be added on to existing classes. "In the future," he says, "they will be at the core of seminar design."
"We really need this kind of class," adds AUK student Yousef Al-Baqsami, "especially at a time like this when there is so much ignorance between cultures. Dartmouth and AUK have a wonderful partnership, one that has made these kinds of discussions possible. We are raising some very sensitive issues that students in most other colleges or countries might not have an opportunity to experience."
By LAUREL STAVIS
The Dartmouth College-American University of Kuwait Project
Since 2003, Dartmouth and the American University of Kuwait have worked together under the terms of an agreement that allows Dartmouth to play an advisory role in helping to build the new university. The two institutions have developed a flourishing relationship that involves faculty, students, and staff. Sixteen Dartmouth students have held internships at AUK, and many AUK students have held internships at Dartmouth. Dinah Warren '10 and Laura Cree '11 are in Kuwait this March. This summer, AUK students Nur Soliman, Mohammed Qasem, Emad Salama, and Hala Al Qabandi will be on campus as interns in the Rassias Center and in the Hood Museum of Art. This summer also marks the first AUK Visiting Faculty Fellowship at Dartmouth, to be held by Simon O'Meara, who teaches art history at AUK.
Courtesy of Dartmouth Life - February 2009 Issue
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~dartlife/archives/19-1/auk.html
Early on a blustery November morning, a group of Dartmouth students arrives at Baker Library to prepare for a unique educational exchange. They and their counterparts at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) are about to go to class together. It's 7:45 a.m. in Hanover and 4:45 p.m. in the Persian Gulf, but the students will see and speak with each other in real time using web-based videoconference technology. The sessions are made possible by a partnership between Dartmouth and AUK, which was founded in 2003 as Kuwait's first liberal arts university.
This is the second time this particular group of students has met in this way And-because their first conversation was so intense and extended well beyond the allotted time-they have decided to devote at least two hours to this conversation.
The students at AUK are in two classes taught by Assistant Professor of English Language and Literature Rawda Awwad. They are studying "Europe and Islam" and "Women and Literature." On the Dartmouth end, Professor Dale Eickelman has assembled a group from two of his anthropology classes, one that focuses on the political uses of the field and the other on anthropological approaches to Islam. The students are prepared to discuss whether modernity is synonymous with Westernization, and what role the media plays in shaping cultural perceptions.
Web-based videoconferencing takes place in Baker Library within the Dartmouth Center for the Advancement of Learning (DCAL), a state-of-the-art facility used by faculty to improve their teaching techniques, to bring groups of scholars together to discuss ongoing research, and to host seminars. The AUK students gather in a similar facility on their campus.
There are no country codes or telephone numbers involved. Instead, one institution dials in to the other's Internet Protocol (IP) address. They are on opposite sides of the world, but once the connection is made, students instantly see and hear each other. Asking questions, responding-even arguing-it's as though they are all participating in a seminar in the same room.
But this is no ordinary discussion. Students at both AUK and Dartmouth sense that their conversations represent an opportunity to connect in ways that could make all the difference, and they are eager to make that happen. "I leave these sessions feeling the urge to continuously seek every opportunity that will help me better understand the global state of affairs, tolerate diverse views, and figure out how I can contribute to bridging the widening gap between 'East' and 'West,'" says AUK student Dina El-Zohairy.
Matthew Forman '11 of New York says, "To see students from a remarkably different background pursuing the same kind of education we are here at Dartmouth is so gratifying. If we can come together to engage in debate and scholarly discourse, surely our political leaders can find common ground."
In a very real sense, the sessions between students symbolize the true significance of the Dartmouth-AUK partnership. The students acknowledge that these conversations-difficult though they sometimes are-could only take place when there is a deep sense of trust between individuals and institutions.
"This is a necessary challenge," adds Professor Awwad, "to the way we are used to teaching, and may lead to a truly global pedagogical practice. Videoconferencing enables a dialog that goes far beyond a mere exchange of ideas. It facilitates the potential for future discussions that are, in every way imaginable, honest and useful."
Professor Eickelman explains that the videoconferences were initially considered a resource to be added on to existing classes. "In the future," he says, "they will be at the core of seminar design."
"We really need this kind of class," adds AUK student Yousef Al-Baqsami, "especially at a time like this when there is so much ignorance between cultures. Dartmouth and AUK have a wonderful partnership, one that has made these kinds of discussions possible. We are raising some very sensitive issues that students in most other colleges or countries might not have an opportunity to experience."
By LAUREL STAVIS
The Dartmouth College-American University of Kuwait Project
Since 2003, Dartmouth and the American University of Kuwait have worked together under the terms of an agreement that allows Dartmouth to play an advisory role in helping to build the new university. The two institutions have developed a flourishing relationship that involves faculty, students, and staff. Sixteen Dartmouth students have held internships at AUK, and many AUK students have held internships at Dartmouth. Dinah Warren '10 and Laura Cree '11 are in Kuwait this March. This summer, AUK students Nur Soliman, Mohammed Qasem, Emad Salama, and Hala Al Qabandi will be on campus as interns in the Rassias Center and in the Hood Museum of Art. This summer also marks the first AUK Visiting Faculty Fellowship at Dartmouth, to be held by Simon O'Meara, who teaches art history at AUK.
Courtesy of Dartmouth Life - February 2009 Issue
http://www.dartmouth.edu/~dartlife/archives/19-1/auk.html
Dartmouth students participate in a videoconference class session with students at the American University of Kuwait. Honest and sometimes difficult, the videoconferences bring students from opposite sides of the world together in real time. (Photo by Joseph Mehling '69)
18, Feb 2009
AUK Participates in its 6th Educare Exhibition
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is pleased to announce its participation in Educare 2009 for the 6th consecutive year. The annual education and career development exhibition will be held at the Kuwait International Fair (KIF) fairgrounds from 10-14 March, 2009.
AUK Admissions team will be available at the exhibition to offer information and answer questions about the admissions process, campus life, and the different academic programs available at the University. Currently, the University offers the following degree programs:
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in: Accounting, Economics, Finance, Marketing, and Management.
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in: Communication and Media, English Language and Literature, Graphic Design, International Studies, and Social and Behavioral Sciences.
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in: Computer Science, Information Systems.
AUK has started accepting applications for its new Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering Program.
In addition, the Intensive English Program (IEP) at the American University of Kuwait offers courses that are designed to prepare non-native English speakers for the academic tasks required of them in their first and successive years of university education.
Representatives from the Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at AUK will also be available at the exhibition to inform visitors about the extensive catalog of courses and programs the Center has to offer.
The American University of Kuwait is a liberal arts institution, based on the American model of higher education, fully accredited by the Private University Council of Kuwait. AUK has a memorandum of cooperation and understanding with Dartmouth College, an Ivy League institution established in 1769, in New Hampshire (USA).
The American University of Kuwait is a liberal arts institution, based on the American model of higher education. It is dedicated to providing students with knowledge, self awareness, and personal growth experiences that can enhance critical thinking, effective communication, and respect for diversity. AUK seeks to create leaders and life-long learners who aspire to the highest standards of moral and ethical responsibility in their societies.
AUK Admissions team will be available at the exhibition to offer information and answer questions about the admissions process, campus life, and the different academic programs available at the University. Currently, the University offers the following degree programs:
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in: Accounting, Economics, Finance, Marketing, and Management.
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in: Communication and Media, English Language and Literature, Graphic Design, International Studies, and Social and Behavioral Sciences.
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in: Computer Science, Information Systems.
AUK has started accepting applications for its new Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering Program.
In addition, the Intensive English Program (IEP) at the American University of Kuwait offers courses that are designed to prepare non-native English speakers for the academic tasks required of them in their first and successive years of university education.
Representatives from the Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at AUK will also be available at the exhibition to inform visitors about the extensive catalog of courses and programs the Center has to offer.
The American University of Kuwait is a liberal arts institution, based on the American model of higher education, fully accredited by the Private University Council of Kuwait. AUK has a memorandum of cooperation and understanding with Dartmouth College, an Ivy League institution established in 1769, in New Hampshire (USA).
The American University of Kuwait is a liberal arts institution, based on the American model of higher education. It is dedicated to providing students with knowledge, self awareness, and personal growth experiences that can enhance critical thinking, effective communication, and respect for diversity. AUK seeks to create leaders and life-long learners who aspire to the highest standards of moral and ethical responsibility in their societies.
A view of the Administration Building - AUK
17, Feb 2009
AUK Librarian to Attend Professional Development Program
Asma J Yaqoub Al-Kanan, AUK's Reference/Instruction Librarian, got admission to the ACRL Institute for Information Literacy Immersion '09 Program. The program provides four and-a-half-days intensive information literacy training and education for instruction librarians from different institutions worldwide. It is an annual affair and admission to the program is competitive.
Asma is currently providing information literacy sessions in coordination with faculty members at AUK. She is eager to do more, learn more and be an active part of the campus community. Asma's participation in this program is a great opportunity to enhance her instruction skills combined with work experience that she already has. The program will be held in St. Petersburg, Florida in July at Eckerd College.
ACRL is a division of the American Library Association and the only individual membership organization in North America that develops programs, products and services to meet the unique needs of academic librarians. ACRL's 13,000 members are comprised of individuals from a wide range of academic institutions, publishers and vendors who sell in the academic marketplace. ACRL enhances the effectiveness of academic and research librarians to advance learning, teaching and research in higher education. More information about ACRL's programs and services can be located on the Web at www.acrl.org
Asma is currently providing information literacy sessions in coordination with faculty members at AUK. She is eager to do more, learn more and be an active part of the campus community. Asma's participation in this program is a great opportunity to enhance her instruction skills combined with work experience that she already has. The program will be held in St. Petersburg, Florida in July at Eckerd College.
ACRL is a division of the American Library Association and the only individual membership organization in North America that develops programs, products and services to meet the unique needs of academic librarians. ACRL's 13,000 members are comprised of individuals from a wide range of academic institutions, publishers and vendors who sell in the academic marketplace. ACRL enhances the effectiveness of academic and research librarians to advance learning, teaching and research in higher education. More information about ACRL's programs and services can be located on the Web at www.acrl.org
Ms. Asma J Yaqoub Al-Kanan
27, Jan 2009
AUK hosts renowned Islamic historian
The Gulf Studies Center at the American University of Kuwait welcomed Professor Emeritus of History at the University of Washington Jere Bacharach last Sunday, where developments in conserving Middle Easter culture were the topic at hand.
Bacharach illustrated the efforts employed to maintain and restore Egyptian heritage, during the various Pharaonic, Greeco-Roman, Coptic and Islamic periods. Bacharach, who has written extensively on medieval Islamic archaeology and Islamic coinage, stressed the need for Arab governments to conserve their tradition and for young Middle Easterners to get the needed training in the work of conserving historical art and monuments.
Bacharach spelled out the steps needed to conserve Middle Eastern cultures based on his experience as Director of the American Research Center in Egypt responsible for the restoration projects of Egyptian heritage. Bacharach also stressed the role of modern technology and the Internet in documenting Islamic culture. Famous for his book Islamic History through Coins, Bacharach showed students and audiences interested in Arab cultures, illustrations of coins that go back to the periods of the Ayubids in the thirteen Century.
President of AUK Dr. Marina Tolmacheva celebrated Bacharach's visit to the University and heralded it as an inspiration to students of history, art, and culture, while Director of the Gulf Studies Center Hesham Al-Awadi, urged Kuwaiti students to reinvestigate the rich cultural history of Kuwait and the region.
GULF STUDIES CENTER
The Gulf Studies Center at the American University of Kuwait seeks to enhance the understanding of the Gulf region and encourage informed scholarship in all academic disciplines (fields of study).
The Center also works to promote dialogue and understanding between Gulf Countries and the West. This is achieved through publications, lecture series, and academic conferences and cooperative programs with other universities and institutions.For more information:
Email:gulfcenter@auk.edu.kw
Bacharach illustrated the efforts employed to maintain and restore Egyptian heritage, during the various Pharaonic, Greeco-Roman, Coptic and Islamic periods. Bacharach, who has written extensively on medieval Islamic archaeology and Islamic coinage, stressed the need for Arab governments to conserve their tradition and for young Middle Easterners to get the needed training in the work of conserving historical art and monuments.
Bacharach spelled out the steps needed to conserve Middle Eastern cultures based on his experience as Director of the American Research Center in Egypt responsible for the restoration projects of Egyptian heritage. Bacharach also stressed the role of modern technology and the Internet in documenting Islamic culture. Famous for his book Islamic History through Coins, Bacharach showed students and audiences interested in Arab cultures, illustrations of coins that go back to the periods of the Ayubids in the thirteen Century.
President of AUK Dr. Marina Tolmacheva celebrated Bacharach's visit to the University and heralded it as an inspiration to students of history, art, and culture, while Director of the Gulf Studies Center Hesham Al-Awadi, urged Kuwaiti students to reinvestigate the rich cultural history of Kuwait and the region.
GULF STUDIES CENTER
The Gulf Studies Center at the American University of Kuwait seeks to enhance the understanding of the Gulf region and encourage informed scholarship in all academic disciplines (fields of study).
The Center also works to promote dialogue and understanding between Gulf Countries and the West. This is achieved through publications, lecture series, and academic conferences and cooperative programs with other universities and institutions.For more information:
Email:gulfcenter@auk.edu.kw
Professor Jere Bacharach
Professor Bacharach & a view of the attending audience
Professor Bacharach & Director of the Gulf Studies Center Hesham Al-Awadi
25, Jan 2009
Graphic Design Students showcase their talent at AUK
The American University of Kuwait held its Second Annual Graphic Design Senior Show, which lasted three days starting January 22 at the Liberal Arts Auditorium. The Graphic Design Portfolio Show is a capstone class for senior design students pursuing a BA in Graphic Design at AUK. This event will give students the opportunity to exclusively talk to prospective seniors and employers in the design field in a proficient and transparent manner. This showcasing also provides students a chance to market themselves and use the skills attained from their university experience in a profitable way.
The first day was open only to the creative and art directors from the field of design in Kuwait, along with management from media and human resources departments from the field at large, the remaining days are open to family and friends so they can celebrate the graduating students and their achievements. Graphic Design Professor and creator of this showcase Dahlia Mahmoud said, "Students will not only present their design skills, rather their public speaking, general business etiquette, as well as the professional communication skills they have acquired through the variety of classes allowed in a liberal arts environment".
The goal, Mahmoud said, to enrich their Arab heritage is evident throughout the entire event from the space design, to the goal of self-definition and expression through design. Students were allocated space with the Liberal Arts Auditorium to design, create and build a visual representation of their work. AUK student Sarah Al-Sharhan said, "I express myself through my designs and portray my projects in an artistic way. I believe great designs come from the process of research, planning and development". This was evident as the show exhibited multiple facets of students' ability to design.
The Graphic Design (GDES) Program at AUK offers students the opportunity to pursue a degree emphasizing a balance of theory and practice in art and science of visual communication. Both the teaching and practice are emphasized to foster critical thinking and problem solving that prepare the student for the real world challenges on will face in the professional sphere. The program includes history of graphic design, typography, symbols, information design, systems, 3D, and multi-media design.
The first day was open only to the creative and art directors from the field of design in Kuwait, along with management from media and human resources departments from the field at large, the remaining days are open to family and friends so they can celebrate the graduating students and their achievements. Graphic Design Professor and creator of this showcase Dahlia Mahmoud said, "Students will not only present their design skills, rather their public speaking, general business etiquette, as well as the professional communication skills they have acquired through the variety of classes allowed in a liberal arts environment".
The goal, Mahmoud said, to enrich their Arab heritage is evident throughout the entire event from the space design, to the goal of self-definition and expression through design. Students were allocated space with the Liberal Arts Auditorium to design, create and build a visual representation of their work. AUK student Sarah Al-Sharhan said, "I express myself through my designs and portray my projects in an artistic way. I believe great designs come from the process of research, planning and development". This was evident as the show exhibited multiple facets of students' ability to design.
The Graphic Design (GDES) Program at AUK offers students the opportunity to pursue a degree emphasizing a balance of theory and practice in art and science of visual communication. Both the teaching and practice are emphasized to foster critical thinking and problem solving that prepare the student for the real world challenges on will face in the professional sphere. The program includes history of graphic design, typography, symbols, information design, systems, 3D, and multi-media design.
A view of the students' work
Students get to talk talk to prospective seniors and employers in the design field
Students get to talk talk to prospective seniors and employers in the design field
Professor Dahlia Mahmoud(far right) with students
The exhibition was attended by students' families & friends
AUK Graphic design students
AUK Graphic design students
Students preparing for the exhibition
Students preparing for the exhibition
22, Jan 2009
AUK's Theater Program hosts Trojan Women
AUK's Theater Program hosted its first play Trojan Women at the Black Box Studio on January 21 in front of a sell-out crowd; the opening night saw a packed theater with an all-female audience. Mothers, friends, AUK students, professors as well as the President of AUK Dr. Marina Tolmacheva came to celebrate this achievement.
Trojan Women, a Greek classic by Euripides, tells the tale of the devastation incurred by war and defeat through the eyes of Trojan women. Professor Christopher Gottschalk (director of the play) wrote in the Director's Note, "When I set my mind to picking a play appropriate for an all-female Theater Production class, Trojan Women very quickly asserted itself over and over again". It seemed quite appropriate then, that the play with its all-female cast and audience should tend and speak to women. The choice of a timeless classic that is still relevant to today's world seemed very appropriate and well suited to the segregated environment at AUK.
Lead actress and AUK student Sukaina Ibraheem, who played Hecuba, did an excellent job of guiding the audience through the emotions portrayed in the play, while AUK staff member Faten Al-Kadiri, playing Adromache, wowed the audience with a powerful and poignant performance that touched at the heart of the issues at hand.
Al-Kadiri, speaking about her experience and how the story manifests itself today said, "it is such a great experience being a part of this talented team of AUK's undergrads. On top of that, Professor Christopher Gottschalk was as much an inspirational leader as an academic professor. He let us visualize the story ourselves, the play is not about Trojan women only, it is about all of us. This story relates to many people in one way or another. The Kuwaiti-Iraqi war in 1990s, the Israeli conflicts with both Lebanon and Palestine that remains till now especially what just happened in Gaza recently. It is dedicated to all these women who faced such tragic losses in wars or even in daily life and struggled to survive."
The cast of Trojan Women includes: Sukaina Ibraheem, Faten Al-Kadiri, Nur El-Huda Abdelhalim, Mona Hussien, Halima Al-Yousef, Sabeeka Al-Rashed, Jenna Al-Rashed, Hind Nassar, Rabab Al-Bousairi, and Dalal Al-Sharhan. Directed by Christopher Gottschalk. Performances January 21-24, 8 pm at the Black Box Studio, AUK Salmiya Campus. Tickets 5 KD.
Trojan Women, a Greek classic by Euripides, tells the tale of the devastation incurred by war and defeat through the eyes of Trojan women. Professor Christopher Gottschalk (director of the play) wrote in the Director's Note, "When I set my mind to picking a play appropriate for an all-female Theater Production class, Trojan Women very quickly asserted itself over and over again". It seemed quite appropriate then, that the play with its all-female cast and audience should tend and speak to women. The choice of a timeless classic that is still relevant to today's world seemed very appropriate and well suited to the segregated environment at AUK.
Lead actress and AUK student Sukaina Ibraheem, who played Hecuba, did an excellent job of guiding the audience through the emotions portrayed in the play, while AUK staff member Faten Al-Kadiri, playing Adromache, wowed the audience with a powerful and poignant performance that touched at the heart of the issues at hand.
Al-Kadiri, speaking about her experience and how the story manifests itself today said, "it is such a great experience being a part of this talented team of AUK's undergrads. On top of that, Professor Christopher Gottschalk was as much an inspirational leader as an academic professor. He let us visualize the story ourselves, the play is not about Trojan women only, it is about all of us. This story relates to many people in one way or another. The Kuwaiti-Iraqi war in 1990s, the Israeli conflicts with both Lebanon and Palestine that remains till now especially what just happened in Gaza recently. It is dedicated to all these women who faced such tragic losses in wars or even in daily life and struggled to survive."
The cast of Trojan Women includes: Sukaina Ibraheem, Faten Al-Kadiri, Nur El-Huda Abdelhalim, Mona Hussien, Halima Al-Yousef, Sabeeka Al-Rashed, Jenna Al-Rashed, Hind Nassar, Rabab Al-Bousairi, and Dalal Al-Sharhan. Directed by Christopher Gottschalk. Performances January 21-24, 8 pm at the Black Box Studio, AUK Salmiya Campus. Tickets 5 KD.
The cast of the Trojan Women with Professor Christopher Gottschalk (director of the play)
Images from the play
18, Jan 2009
Dr. Simon O'Meara the recipient of the first Dartmouth-AUK Fellowship Award
President of AUK Dr. Marina Tolmacheva announced the recipient of the first Dartmouth-AUK Fellowship Award on January 15, 2009. Dr. Simon O'Meara, Assistant Professor of Art History in the Division of Humanities and Arts, will take up his post at Dartmouth College during Summer 2009. During his time in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dr. O'Meara will be creating two publications.
The first is the entry on the Arab bazaar (souq) in the new multi-volume Encyclopedia of Islam in preparation by the distinguished publisher of Oriental Studies E.J. Brill. The second is a book chapter in Roads to Paradise: Eschatology and Concepts of the Hereafter in Islam, also to be published by Brill. AUK provides the recipient with travel support and a stipend.
President Marina thanked all the applicants and wished them success in their research pursuits.
The fellowship competition was open to AUK faculty members conducting research that can be facilitated by access to Dartmouth's libraries and museum collections, or to senior administrators pursuing professional development projects that can be guided by Dartmouth mentors.
The selection criteria included the proposal's promise of research outcomes or professional development, alignment with the Strategic Planning Goals of AUK, a project timeline, and appropriate use of Dartmouth resources.
The first is the entry on the Arab bazaar (souq) in the new multi-volume Encyclopedia of Islam in preparation by the distinguished publisher of Oriental Studies E.J. Brill. The second is a book chapter in Roads to Paradise: Eschatology and Concepts of the Hereafter in Islam, also to be published by Brill. AUK provides the recipient with travel support and a stipend.
President Marina thanked all the applicants and wished them success in their research pursuits.
The fellowship competition was open to AUK faculty members conducting research that can be facilitated by access to Dartmouth's libraries and museum collections, or to senior administrators pursuing professional development projects that can be guided by Dartmouth mentors.
The selection criteria included the proposal's promise of research outcomes or professional development, alignment with the Strategic Planning Goals of AUK, a project timeline, and appropriate use of Dartmouth resources.
Dr. Simon O'Meara
14, Jan 2009
AUK Honors Exemplary Students
Recipients of the President's Honor Roll and Dean's list shared their joy with faculty, staff and parents during a ceremony held at the Liberal Arts Auditorium in celebration of AUK student's academic achievements.
A record 259 students were awarded by AUK President Dr. Marina Tolmacheva for being on the Dean's List, which requires students to maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA. The President's Honor Roll saw 27 recipients. These exemplary students must maintain a 4.0 GPA to be eligible for this honor.
Please click here to view the list of Honor students (pdf)
The ceremony also recognized faculty-student successes; in particular MUNAUK's excellent showing at the 2008 Bahrain Conference, student victories in the Inter College Environmental Public Speaking Competition, as well as the success of the French Language DELF exam, which all students passed with high scores.
A record 259 students were awarded by AUK President Dr. Marina Tolmacheva for being on the Dean's List, which requires students to maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA. The President's Honor Roll saw 27 recipients. These exemplary students must maintain a 4.0 GPA to be eligible for this honor.
Please click here to view the list of Honor students (pdf)
The ceremony also recognized faculty-student successes; in particular MUNAUK's excellent showing at the 2008 Bahrain Conference, student victories in the Inter College Environmental Public Speaking Competition, as well as the success of the French Language DELF exam, which all students passed with high scores.
Dr. Marina Tolmacheva, the AUK president
Dr. Nizar Hamzeh, Dean of College of Arts and Sciences
Dr. Marina Tolmacheva, the AUK president with student
Ibrahim Qaddoura's son receives his father's certificate from the AUK Dean of College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Nizar Hamzeh
Dr. Marina Tolmacheva, the AUK president with student
Father Congratulates daughter (an AUK student who was on the deans list)
MUNAUK was honored among AUK clubs & organizations
