News
01, Dec 2008
AUK hosts Social Awareness Week
The American University of Kuwait held its Annual Social Awareness Week, where each day focused on a specific social awareness topic. Events surrounding the week provided students with the chance to obtain knowledge on social responsibility issues, learn to make socially responsible decisions, establish positive networks and encourage involvement with key organizations in Kuwait.
Each day concentrated on a specific social awareness topic, including Community Service Day, Environment Day, Global Day, Traffic Awareness Day, and Corporate Social Responsibility Day. Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sumait spoke on behalf of Direct Aid Society on the opening day, and Mrs. Fareah Al-Saqqaf of LoYAC gave a presentation titled, 'Helping Youth Find Their Sense of Purpose'. Environment day hosted Mr. Khalil Khodr who presented 'Recycle to Complete the Cycle', encouraging everyone to contribute to the environment, while Global Day saw Kuwait United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mrs. Valerie Cliff give insight on the UNDP in Kuwait, some of the programs and main issues as well as the structure. Corporate Social Responsibility Day welcomed KIPCO representative, Ms. Abeer Al-Omar, Assistant Vice President, Corporate Communication Department, who spoke about KIPCO owning up to its social responsibility by raising awareness regarding dyslexia in Kuwait.
The week also allowed for fundraising to be donated to the Direct Aid Society. Over 295 KD was raised via fundraising and donations. There were also paintings sold through 'The One' art gallery with proceeds of 144KD going to charity.
Participation in these days included many Kuwait organizations such as Rekaaz Campaign, Direct Aid Society, LoYAC, the Environment Public Authority, Metal & Recycling Co., UNHCR, Kuwait UN Country Team, Ministry of Interior, and Agility. Along with the Office of Student Life, several AUK student organizations contributed to the success of Social Awareness Week including Student Government Association, Cooperation Club, Goodwill Club, Spades Club, Entrepreneurship and Business Club, Drama Club, and the Community Service Club.
About The Office of Student Life at the American University of Kuwait - The Office of Student Life's mission is to create a campus environment that engages students with lifelong learning opportunities outside the classroom which provide personal, professional, ethical, and intellectual growth.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The lanuage of instruction is English. AUK and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA) have worked closley together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding. More information on Dartmouth College can be found at www.dartmouth.edu.
Each day concentrated on a specific social awareness topic, including Community Service Day, Environment Day, Global Day, Traffic Awareness Day, and Corporate Social Responsibility Day. Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sumait spoke on behalf of Direct Aid Society on the opening day, and Mrs. Fareah Al-Saqqaf of LoYAC gave a presentation titled, 'Helping Youth Find Their Sense of Purpose'. Environment day hosted Mr. Khalil Khodr who presented 'Recycle to Complete the Cycle', encouraging everyone to contribute to the environment, while Global Day saw Kuwait United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mrs. Valerie Cliff give insight on the UNDP in Kuwait, some of the programs and main issues as well as the structure. Corporate Social Responsibility Day welcomed KIPCO representative, Ms. Abeer Al-Omar, Assistant Vice President, Corporate Communication Department, who spoke about KIPCO owning up to its social responsibility by raising awareness regarding dyslexia in Kuwait.
The week also allowed for fundraising to be donated to the Direct Aid Society. Over 295 KD was raised via fundraising and donations. There were also paintings sold through 'The One' art gallery with proceeds of 144KD going to charity.
Participation in these days included many Kuwait organizations such as Rekaaz Campaign, Direct Aid Society, LoYAC, the Environment Public Authority, Metal & Recycling Co., UNHCR, Kuwait UN Country Team, Ministry of Interior, and Agility. Along with the Office of Student Life, several AUK student organizations contributed to the success of Social Awareness Week including Student Government Association, Cooperation Club, Goodwill Club, Spades Club, Entrepreneurship and Business Club, Drama Club, and the Community Service Club.
About The Office of Student Life at the American University of Kuwait - The Office of Student Life's mission is to create a campus environment that engages students with lifelong learning opportunities outside the classroom which provide personal, professional, ethical, and intellectual growth.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The lanuage of instruction is English. AUK and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA) have worked closley together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding. More information on Dartmouth College can be found at www.dartmouth.edu.
Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Sumait
A view of the audience
Mrs. Fareah Al-Saqqaf of LoYAC gave a presentation titled, 'Helping Youth Find Their Sense of Purpose'
Mr. Khalil Khodr
01, Dec 2008
AUK Literature Class Welcomes Leila Al-Uthman
The American University of Kuwait's 'Women and Literature' class, taught by Professor Rawda Awwad welcomed famed Kuwaiti author Leila Al-Uthman, giving the students a rare opportunity to personally meet the author of books they had analyzed in class.
Al-Uthman has been writing for over 40 years and hopes 'to write for a good many more years too'. Author of books such as 'The Silent Butterflies,' a novel, and short stories like 'The Picture', as well as experimental texts in Arabic, and an active member of the local writer's guild, Al-Uthman's writing was deemed controversial at times, forcing her to go to court on several occasions.
While addressing the class she said that meeting with the author of something you've read may either hugely disappoint or further interest you in their writing. 'What the author writes of does not often perfectly relate to the nature of the author, their behavior, and so on,' she added. She also explained that it was ultimately better to be the author who expresses the feelings and captures the experiences at the heart of the Arab streets, that of the real people, and not those of philosophers in ivory towers.
Al-Uthman donated copies of most of her publications, the novels and short story collections alike, to the AUK Library, hoping that interested students may understand her thoughts as one Arab woman writing in Kuwait, and become more familiar with the body of literature produced by local artists and authors.
Written by Nur Soliman and edited by the AUK PR & Marketing Department
Al-Uthman has been writing for over 40 years and hopes 'to write for a good many more years too'. Author of books such as 'The Silent Butterflies,' a novel, and short stories like 'The Picture', as well as experimental texts in Arabic, and an active member of the local writer's guild, Al-Uthman's writing was deemed controversial at times, forcing her to go to court on several occasions.
While addressing the class she said that meeting with the author of something you've read may either hugely disappoint or further interest you in their writing. 'What the author writes of does not often perfectly relate to the nature of the author, their behavior, and so on,' she added. She also explained that it was ultimately better to be the author who expresses the feelings and captures the experiences at the heart of the Arab streets, that of the real people, and not those of philosophers in ivory towers.
Al-Uthman donated copies of most of her publications, the novels and short story collections alike, to the AUK Library, hoping that interested students may understand her thoughts as one Arab woman writing in Kuwait, and become more familiar with the body of literature produced by local artists and authors.
Written by Nur Soliman and edited by the AUK PR & Marketing Department
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26, Nov 2008
A 'Nuclear Gulf' at AUK
The Gulf Studies Center and the American Corner held a discussion titled 'A Nuclear Gulf?' at the American University of Kuwait where speakers tackled the idea of a nuclear Iran. The discussion hosted four speakers, each representing a key player. Adjunct Professor of International Studies Shareefa Al-Adwani gave a brief explanation of the immediate and long-lasting effects of nuclear weapons, as well as the effects and implications of a nuclear weapons program in a neighboring country. Visiting Associate Professor of International Relations Dr. Gholamreza Vatandoust presented Iran's case, and provided his audience with an insightful look at how Iran percieves itself, the Middle East, as well as the West. Assistant Professor of International Studies Dr. D. Roman Kulchitsky explained America's stance and some of the history that has formed today's American foreign policy with regards to Iran. Finally, Assistant Professor of International Studies and Director of the Gulf Studies Center Dr. Hesham Al-Awadi described the Gulf regions' attitude towards Iran, by giving a concise historical anaylsis of the dynamic between the Gulf and Iran. Dr. Al-Awadi focussed on the paradoxical relationship between the Gulf and Iran and the difference in thought that exists between governments and people.
The discussion, which took place at the Liberal Arts Auditorium on November 19, aimed at providing the audience with a comprehensive look at a pressing regional issue. The choice of speakers provided a well-rounded discussion.
The discussion, which took place at the Liberal Arts Auditorium on November 19, aimed at providing the audience with a comprehensive look at a pressing regional issue. The choice of speakers provided a well-rounded discussion.
26, Nov 2008
Second Annual Alumni Reception
The Office of Alumni Affairs at the American University of Kuwait hosted its Second Annual Alumni Reception on November 20th at the Liberal Arts Auditorium. The reception commemorated past Alumni and inaugurated the class of 2008 into the Alumni program. The audience heard speeches from Dr. Marina Tolmacheva, President of AUK, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Nizar Hamzeh, as well as Coordinator of Alumni Affairs Dana H. Taqi.
The Alumni Reception serves as an official inauguration into the Alumni program as well as an opportunity for social networking, highlighting achievements of Alums and maintaining an ongoing relationship between the University and its Alums.
The guest speaker for the evening was Osama Al-Sadi, an Investment Analyst at Global Investment House and a 07" Alum who was chosen as an example of a model alumnus.
The evening concluded with a dinner and a slideshow highlighting AUK Alums and showcasing the University's progression. The Annual Alumni Reception is a chance for members of the AUK community, past and present, to stay connected to the University.
The Alumni Reception serves as an official inauguration into the Alumni program as well as an opportunity for social networking, highlighting achievements of Alums and maintaining an ongoing relationship between the University and its Alums.
The guest speaker for the evening was Osama Al-Sadi, an Investment Analyst at Global Investment House and a 07" Alum who was chosen as an example of a model alumnus.
The evening concluded with a dinner and a slideshow highlighting AUK Alums and showcasing the University's progression. The Annual Alumni Reception is a chance for members of the AUK community, past and present, to stay connected to the University.
25, Nov 2008
AUK Participates in the EEG Public Speaking Competition
The American University of Kuwait swept the Eighth Emirates Environmental Groups' Inter College Public Speaking Competition in Dubai on the first day by winning first place in two public speaking topic categories.
Hayah Al-Qassar, Mahdi Al-Own and Ghazwan Fayad , coached and supported by Dr. Rawda H. Awwad, and Mr. Don Prades from the American University of Kuwait, were among 300 student participants who represented over 50 regional universities. Students presented on environmental issues ranging from the challenges posed by global warming, to the opportunities provided through the development of technology that is environmentally friendly. Through the annual competition, the Emirates Environmental Groups (EEG) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mabarak Al-Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Chancellor of the UAE University and the Higher Colleges of Technology seeks a broadening awareness of and about environmental issues specific to our region.
Al-Qassar presented on "The World in 100 years," and focused on the importance of personal accountability and responsibility when it comes to combating the dire consequences associated with global warming. Taking the audience through an eight step analysis as to what the future holds for generations to come by continuing to objectify the world "we use it, abuse it, and discard it," she impressed the audience by soliciting a communal effort at "turning things around." Al-Own presented the topic "Our Oceans: Our Future," providing a S.W.O.T. analysis for the "...mother of all products: our environment." Fayad provided the multi-media technology that supported both presentations.
Dr. Awwad expressed pride in the students' performance. "These students are our future. The academic, intellectual and emotional investment in our young people today should be our first and foremost priority. These competitions provide the forum for students to engage in intellectual debate and global discussions, and are integral to University life and experience," said Dr. Awwad.
Hayah Al-Qassar, Mahdi Al-Own and Ghazwan Fayad , coached and supported by Dr. Rawda H. Awwad, and Mr. Don Prades from the American University of Kuwait, were among 300 student participants who represented over 50 regional universities. Students presented on environmental issues ranging from the challenges posed by global warming, to the opportunities provided through the development of technology that is environmentally friendly. Through the annual competition, the Emirates Environmental Groups (EEG) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mabarak Al-Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Chancellor of the UAE University and the Higher Colleges of Technology seeks a broadening awareness of and about environmental issues specific to our region.
Al-Qassar presented on "The World in 100 years," and focused on the importance of personal accountability and responsibility when it comes to combating the dire consequences associated with global warming. Taking the audience through an eight step analysis as to what the future holds for generations to come by continuing to objectify the world "we use it, abuse it, and discard it," she impressed the audience by soliciting a communal effort at "turning things around." Al-Own presented the topic "Our Oceans: Our Future," providing a S.W.O.T. analysis for the "...mother of all products: our environment." Fayad provided the multi-media technology that supported both presentations.
Dr. Awwad expressed pride in the students' performance. "These students are our future. The academic, intellectual and emotional investment in our young people today should be our first and foremost priority. These competitions provide the forum for students to engage in intellectual debate and global discussions, and are integral to University life and experience," said Dr. Awwad.
25, Nov 2008
Kuwait United Nations Resident Coordinator Speaks as Part of Social Awareness Week at AUK
Kuwait United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator, Mrs. Valerie Cliff gave a lecture at the American University of Kuwait where she presented an overview of the Mission of the United Nations in Kuwait. Mrs. Cliff spoke of the dynamic between the government here in Kuwait and the UNDP's mission of advocating certain policies and providing the necessary expertise. The dynamic rests upon two agendas; that of the Kuwaiti government and the global agenda or the millennium goals set forth by the UN in 2000.
Mrs. Cliff commended Kuwait on its economic development but mentioned three areas that Kuwait and the UNDP need to address, these are: environment, gender equality and good governance. She continued by saying that the extent of change of local policy and the measure of influence is a long term process, but that the UNDP is committed to creating sustainable national structures in Kuwait and to the moral role the UN plays in Kuwait and around the world.
Mrs. Cliff encouraged students to do volunteer work while they are young to help the UN's mission in promoting social causes. She said, "it is not only about contributing money, but contributing yourself...serving humanity'.
For Additional Information on the Kuwait United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mrs. Valerie Cliff Speaking as Part of Social Awareness Week at AUK or of Social Awareness Week in general, please contact the Office of Student Life or visit www.auk.edu.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The lanuage of instruction is English. AUK and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA) have worked closley together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding. More information on Dartmouth College can be found at www.dartmouth.edu.
Established by Amiri Decree 139 in 2003, AUK was accredited in 2006 and re-accredited in 2008, by the Council for Private Universities, Ministry of Higher Education - State of Kuwait. More information can be found at www.auk.edu.kw
Mrs. Cliff commended Kuwait on its economic development but mentioned three areas that Kuwait and the UNDP need to address, these are: environment, gender equality and good governance. She continued by saying that the extent of change of local policy and the measure of influence is a long term process, but that the UNDP is committed to creating sustainable national structures in Kuwait and to the moral role the UN plays in Kuwait and around the world.
Mrs. Cliff encouraged students to do volunteer work while they are young to help the UN's mission in promoting social causes. She said, "it is not only about contributing money, but contributing yourself...serving humanity'.
For Additional Information on the Kuwait United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mrs. Valerie Cliff Speaking as Part of Social Awareness Week at AUK or of Social Awareness Week in general, please contact the Office of Student Life or visit www.auk.edu.
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The lanuage of instruction is English. AUK and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire (USA) have worked closley together since 2003, when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding. More information on Dartmouth College can be found at www.dartmouth.edu.
Established by Amiri Decree 139 in 2003, AUK was accredited in 2006 and re-accredited in 2008, by the Council for Private Universities, Ministry of Higher Education - State of Kuwait. More information can be found at www.auk.edu.kw
Dr. Marina Tolmacheva, the AUK President, welcomes Mrs. Valerie Cliff
Mrs. Valerie Cliff gives an overview of the Mission of the United Nations in Kuwait
A view of the audience
The events were attended by many AUK students
19, Nov 2008
Papa John's Visit to AUK
The American University of Kuwait hosted Nigel Travis, President and Chief Executive Officer of the internationally popular Pizza chain Papa John's. Mr. Travis spoke to the AUK community and especially Business Administration students, about the establishment and the success of this pizza chain. The event, which took place at the Liberal Arts Auditorium at 11am, was designed to give Business Administration students insight on how to establish, run and manage an internationally successful business. Mr. Travis also discussed the current global financial crisis and the effects this has on businesses worldwide. This special opportunity gives Business students the chance to gain valuable knowledge first hand, as well as the chance to interact with the President of an internationally successful business.
Mr. Travis joined Papa John's as President and CEO in January 2005, and is responsible for overseeing worldwide operations, franchising, restaurant development and marketing. Mr. Travis' extensive experience has seen him manage and head several international recognized brands including Blockbuster and Burger King.
Papa John's was founded in 1985 by John H. Schnatter, Chairman and spokesman for the company. In April 2007 Mr. Schnatter's achievements were recognized and he was inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame, the youngest member ever inducted. In 1998 Mr. Schnatter was named National Ernst & Young Retail/Consumer Entrepreneur of The Year.
Mr. Travis joined Papa John's as President and CEO in January 2005, and is responsible for overseeing worldwide operations, franchising, restaurant development and marketing. Mr. Travis' extensive experience has seen him manage and head several international recognized brands including Blockbuster and Burger King.
Papa John's was founded in 1985 by John H. Schnatter, Chairman and spokesman for the company. In April 2007 Mr. Schnatter's achievements were recognized and he was inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame, the youngest member ever inducted. In 1998 Mr. Schnatter was named National Ernst & Young Retail/Consumer Entrepreneur of The Year.
12, Nov 2008
4th Annual Health Fair
The 4th Annual Health Fair was held at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) on November 11th from 1-4 pm. This exhibition was sponsored by the Student Success Center and was open to gyms, health conscious restaurants, organic products, hospitals, clinics, spas, and health related societies. Participating clinics, doctors and nutritionists on site provided free checkups to attending students, faculty and staff. Companies also provided samples of healthy food and drinks, health education literature, information about mental health, as well as a display of healthy products.
AUK students are required to enroll in a Health and Fitness class that educates them about healthy lifestyle choices. The Health Fair provided students with knowledge of how to utilize resources in Kuwait to create and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Many of the participating companies donated memberships, vouchers, and other prizes in an effort to encourage and promote such lifestyle choices.
The participating companies were: Salad Creations, Health Stop, International Clinic, United Laboratories, Al Safat American Hospital, Maidan Mobile Dental Clinic, Fawzia Sultan Rehabilitation Institute, Royal Hayat, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Optimal Solutions Consultancy, The Spot for Beauty, Movenpick Spa, Corniche, Pilates and More, Fit for Fun, Radison SAS Health Club, Jassim Al Wazzan & Sons, Neutrogena, Al Rifai, Kuwait Society for Smoking and Cancer Prevention, Ras al Salmiya Health Club, Subway.
AUK students are required to enroll in a Health and Fitness class that educates them about healthy lifestyle choices. The Health Fair provided students with knowledge of how to utilize resources in Kuwait to create and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Many of the participating companies donated memberships, vouchers, and other prizes in an effort to encourage and promote such lifestyle choices.
The participating companies were: Salad Creations, Health Stop, International Clinic, United Laboratories, Al Safat American Hospital, Maidan Mobile Dental Clinic, Fawzia Sultan Rehabilitation Institute, Royal Hayat, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Optimal Solutions Consultancy, The Spot for Beauty, Movenpick Spa, Corniche, Pilates and More, Fit for Fun, Radison SAS Health Club, Jassim Al Wazzan & Sons, Neutrogena, Al Rifai, Kuwait Society for Smoking and Cancer Prevention, Ras al Salmiya Health Club, Subway.
25, Sep 2008
AUK Ghabga
On September 20th, 2008 The American University of Kuwait held its annual Ghabga at the Hilton Resort "Ramadan Tent" to celebrate the Holy month of Ramadan and the beginning of new academic year 2008-2009.
The gathering was attended by the president of The American University of Kuwait Dr. Marina Tolmacheva, AUK Faculty and Staff members.
The gathering was attended by the president of The American University of Kuwait Dr. Marina Tolmacheva, AUK Faculty and Staff members.
12, Sep 2008
U.S. Ambassador and AUK Sign the American Corner MOU
The Embassy of the United States of America represented by Ambassador Deborah K. Jones and the American University of Kuwait (AUK) represented by Dr. Marina Tolmacheva signed a Memorandum of Understanding concerning the operation of an American Corner located in the library at AUK in September 11, 2008. To date, the American Embassy has established American Corners in Kuwait at the American University of Kuwait, Kuwait University, and the Gulf University of Science and Technology.
The American Corner offers opportunities to serve the public by providing information and speakers on a variety of topics. The American University of Kuwait now has Digital Video Conferencing (DVC) capability which enables AUK faculty and students to bring experts from the United States and all over the world into their own classrooms for live interactions and discussions on education, history and politics. Last spring, over eighty students participated in a DVC on primary election campaigns in the United States with an American academic expert.
The Embassy's Public Affairs Section and the American Corner provide a wealth of information through extensive databases, books, articles, speakers from the U.S. and the local American community, on a range of topics about American society, history and policies.
The American University of Kuwait, founded in 2003, offers a learning environment based on the American model of higher education. It is dedicated to enhancing students knowledge, self-awareness, and personal growth experiences that can strengthen critical thinking, effective communication, and respect for diversity.
The American Corner offers opportunities to serve the public by providing information and speakers on a variety of topics. The American University of Kuwait now has Digital Video Conferencing (DVC) capability which enables AUK faculty and students to bring experts from the United States and all over the world into their own classrooms for live interactions and discussions on education, history and politics. Last spring, over eighty students participated in a DVC on primary election campaigns in the United States with an American academic expert.
The Embassy's Public Affairs Section and the American Corner provide a wealth of information through extensive databases, books, articles, speakers from the U.S. and the local American community, on a range of topics about American society, history and policies.
The American University of Kuwait, founded in 2003, offers a learning environment based on the American model of higher education. It is dedicated to enhancing students knowledge, self-awareness, and personal growth experiences that can strengthen critical thinking, effective communication, and respect for diversity.
