News
As part of their ongoing campaign Safety at Every Home (Safe) against fire hazards, the Kuwait Fire Service Directorate (KFSD) and EQUATE Petrochemical Company held a joint awareness activity at the American University of Kuwait (AUK). The 3-day activity, facilitated by the office of Student Life, included an information booth and a seminar attended by AUK students and staff members.
Speaking at the opening event, AUK President Professor Dr. Nizar Hamzeh said, "Being an institution of higher education, AUK continuously aspires to support awareness initiatives that benefit the society and its members as a whole. Although different types of awareness initiatives vary in nature, all aim at the common good of society. One of the awareness initiatives, which hold great significance in society, is educating people about safety and how to protect lives and property. To that effect, we at AUK are very pleased to host the Safe Campaign, which represents joint efforts of KFSD and EQUATE to create awareness among the University students, faculty and staff."
On his part, KFSD Director of Public Relations & Media Colonel Khalil Al-Ameer said, "In an effort to avoid different hazards and potential incidents at home and other various places, Safe Campaign has been launched to embody the strategic objectives KFSD is aiming to achieve throughout Kuwait by having such a partnership with EQUATE. For this purpose, the campaign will hold a number of awareness activities at a number of places, such as this activity at ACK, as well as other colleges, universities and malls. Certainly, the success of this campaign is the product of cooperation and coordination between individuals and organizations, including AUK and EQUATE that deserve utmost appreciation and gratitude."
The Safe booth at AUK saw significant student traffic as the KFSD team gave out brochures and giveaways, while providing information on fire hazards and precautionary measures. The interactive seminar and presentation, which also saw huge attendance, offered guidelines and precautions regarding fire extinguishers, types of fires, smoke alarms, gas cylinders, gas leaks, fire evacuation, and dealing with different emergencies and the importance of calling Emergency Number 112 when needed.
Aimed at avoiding hazards and preventing incidents at home and other places, Safety at Every Home Campaign (Safe) is launched in partnership between Kuwait Fire Service Directorate (KFSD) and EQUATE Petrochemical Company. Commenting on this partnership, EQUATE Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) Leader Mohammad Al-Shamary said, "Due to safety having several personal and professional dimensions, such a partnership between KFSD and EQUATE holds utmost importance to ensure overall safety at home, work, when driving vehicles and other places, including AUK that has our heartfelt appreciation for holding this activity. Without any doubt, launching this campaign in partnership with KFSD and holding this activity at AUK are prime examples of EQUATE's tagline 'Partners in Success'."
To create awareness between members of the Kuwaiti society, nationals and expats, the campaign will continue to visit other locations in Kuwait to address methods of handling fires, emergencies within and outside the household, the importance of having a fire extinguisher, the role of smoke alarms, as well as safely using gas cylinders, among other critical matters. Along those lines, EQUATE has previously launched EQUATE Home Safety Campaign (Stay Safe) which focused on potential hazards at home and how to avoid unfortunate accidents. All such efforts are part of EQUATE Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Program that has introduced several initiatives aimed at overall sustainability throughout Kuwait.
Safe Campaign will hold its next activity at 360 Mall during October 16-18,2014.
About Kuwait Fire Service Directorate (KFSD)
With its initial founding taking place during 1947, Kuwait Fire Service Directorate (KFSD) is currently an independent government authority under the supervision of State Minister for Council of Ministers Affairs in the State of Kuwait. KFSD plays a number of critical national roles by providing required protection for lives and property from fires, crashes, incidents and natural disasters and preventing them throughout the country. www.kfsd.gov.kw.
About EQUATE Petrochemical Company
Established in 1995, EQUATE Petrochemical Company is an international joint venture between Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC), The Dow Chemical Company (Dow), Boubyan Petrochemical Company (BPC) and Qurain Petrochemical Industries Company (QPIC). Commencing production in 1997, EQUATE is the single operator of a fully integrated world-scale manufacturing facility producing over 5 million tons annually of high-quality petrochemical products which are marketed throughout the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe. www.equate.com.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 2nd October 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
The Fawzia Sultan Educational Company (FAWSEC) and Specialized Solutions recently held a 'Welcome to Kuwait' evening seminar for newly-arrived educators from around the world to welcome them to the country and introduce them to the local customs and culture. Hosted by the American University of Kuwait's Center for Continuing Education (CCE), the event attracted approximately 250 teachers who have recently arrived in Kuwait to teach at local American, Canadian and bilingual schools.
The 'Welcome to Kuwait' seminar was sponsored by Alghanim Industries. During the opening session, Andy Finch, Alghanim Industries' Director of Organizational Development, addressed guests, reiterating the company's long-term commitment to encouraging education initiatives as an integral part of youth development in Kuwait.
The main purpose of the evening was to help recently arrived teachers feel welcome, not only at their individual schools, but also within the Kuwait community at large. "Teachers are such an important part of the daily lives of our children, it is imperative that educators get settled and know how to find everything they need and discover the many activities available to people living in Kuwait," expressed Lynda AbdulRaheem, Professional Development Coordinator from FAWSEC Educational Company.
During the seminar, the new teachers were presented with tips on how to communicate effectively with local students and how to adjust to their new lives in Kuwait. Dr. Susanna Schiulenberg, a counselor at the Soor Center for Professional Therapy & Assessment, advised teachers on ways to deal with the potential 'culture shock' that could be associated with moving to a new country.
In addition to the seminar, a number of local organizations were on-hand to provide information about the wide variety of activities available in Kuwait and the numerous volunteer groups that teachers can join. Representatives from educational companies also interacted with the new teachers and explained their product and service offerings.
FAWSEC, Specialized Solutions, AUK's Center for Continuing Education and Alghanim Industries were pleased to team up to host 'Welcome to Kuwait' for the country's new educators, and look forward to further opportunities to support Kuwait's teachers and students.
About FAWSEC
FAWSEC's mission is to facilitate the attainment of high quality education and wellness in the community through the development and promotion of superior educational and health care programs and facilities. The Professional Development office of FAWSEC is dedicated to providing educational opportunities in Kuwait for teachers, parents and specialists with the intent of enhancing the "best practices" available to children and families living in Kuwait and in the Gulf Region for their education, health and welfare.
About Specialized Solutions
Specialized Solutions is a leading provider of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to teachers in Kuwait and educational consulting services including curriculum development and teacher evaluation. Since 2010, our expert consultants and instructors have provided ongoing support to a range of educational professionals from a number of schools and universities, both in Kuwait and other Gulf countries. Our participation in "Welcome to Kuwait" coincides with our mission to support all teachers.
About CCE
As well as assisting in organizing such seminars as 'Welcome to Kuwait', the Center for Continuing Education (CCE) at AUK aims to be a contributing member of the local professional community by offering competitive professional training and development opportunities delivered by qualified instructors and experts in various fields. Since 2006, CCE has been offering a range of internationally certified professional development programs in Leadership, Business and Management, TESOL, Languages and Personal Development, including the option to fully customize Business and Leadership programs to meet the needs of the corporate sector.
About Alghanim Industries
Alghanim Industries is one of the largest, privately-owned companies in the Gulf region and is a market leader in almost every major sector of its operations. These sectors include engineering, retail, automotive sales and service, manufacture of insulation and pre-engineered steel building structures, logistics and warehousing, fast moving consumer goods, food & beverage, oil & gas, office automation, advertising, insurance, consumer credit and travel.
The company has consistently been seen as one of the region's best employers, winning a number of major awards. Most recently these awards have included 'Best Employer in the Middle East' from Aon Hewitt for 2009/2010, 'Asia's Best Employer Brand' award for 2010/2011 from the Employer Branding Institute and the World HRD Congress, and the 'Best Corporate Governance - Kuwait' award in 2012 from World Finance magazine.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 29th September 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
The Contemporary Art Platform (CAP), in collaboration with the Art Salon, is currently holding the 'TALK LOVE...ACT PEACE' exhibition at the CAP location in Shuwaikh, Kuwait. The exhibition supports the Peace One Day initiative, a campaign aimed to promote peace in the region, and encourages emerging and young artists to contribute artwork conveying messages that support peace and love.
Current Graphic Design students at the American University of Kuwait (AUK), Najd Al Taher and Sundos Al Bulushi, former Graphic Design students Aziz Al Mudhaf and Wafaa Al Husaini, in addition to AUK Professors George Bauer, Maryam Hosseinnia and William Andersen are taking part in the exhibit that celebrates global peace. The opening reception took place on September 21, 2014, and was attended by over 600 guests comprising of art enthusiasts, family members and friends of contributing artists, as well as supporters of the cause.
Proceeds from the sale of artwork will be collected to help fund children in Gaza, in collaboration with the Gassan Kanafani Cultural Foundation, and fund Kuwait's Child Rights Association. The exhibition is free and and open to the public Sunday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm or by appointment, and will be ongoing until October 4, 2014.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 28th September 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
The Diwaniya Book Club at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) ended Spring 2014 by holding a Sherlock Holmes Mystery Dinner; a murder mystery dinner based on Sir Arthor Conan Doyle's famous detective, in which participants assumed characters from the Sherlock Holmes series and tried to solve the mystery of who committed the crime.
Participants were required to gather clues and evidence to help in identifying the killer, and complete solution cards containing the name of who they think is the killer. The winner was determined through a voting process, where participants voted for who they thought was the best detective and should win an all-expense paid trip to India. Omar Khalil, a Sophomore student pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering, won the Best Detective Award and the trip.
The 4-day trip included a tour of Agra and the Taj Mahal. "Viewing the Taj Mahal up close felt like a fairy tale, almost as if it was something taken straight out of a dream," Omar said of his visit to the palace. The trip was entirely organized by the Diwaniya Book Club.
Omar is currently a Peer Tutor at the Tutoring Center and serves as a Writing Consultant at the Writing Center.
The Diwaniya Book Club at AUK is an initiative open to members of the AUK community where members can meet regularly to read and discuss works of literature, contemporary and classic, whether it's novels, haikus, screenplays, or poems.
Find out more about the Diwaniya Book Club in the upcoming issue of the Chronicle.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 25th September 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
Images from the trip - Photo Courtesy of Omar Khalil
Two graduate student interns have concluded their internships within different AUK Student Affairs departments. Last summer, Jessica Joseph and Jane Devenport joined AUK as part of the Student Affairs Graduate Internship program designed to provide graduate students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain essential experiences within professional areas of Student Affairs/Student Services.
Coming from different parts of the United States, the two graduate students stayed in Kuwait for nearly 8 weeks, where they gained hands-on experience at the AUK Career Services & Wellness Center, Office of Student Life, and Office of Alumni Affairs.
After graduating in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology from Stony Brook University on Long Island, New York, Jessica Joseph continued her time at SBU as a student in the Master's in Higher Education Administration program. Joseph worked as a graduate assistant at the Career Center where she supported students in a variety of ways like providing resume assistance or student counselling. Joseph was also an intern at the Center for Prevention and Outreach, where she educated the campus community on mental, emotional and physical health issues through facilitating group outreach, teaching material in classrooms, and planning campus wide programs. Currently, Joseph works as an Assistant Behavioral Intervention Specialist at YAI, an organization that works with individuals with developmental disabilities and psychiatric diagnoses. With her background in career services and mental health counselling and outreach, Joseph was placed at the AUK Career Services & Wellness Center to complete her primary placement internship hours, and at the Office of Student Life to complete her secondary placement internship hours.
Jane Devenport received a Bachelor of Arts degree in American Ethnic Studies from the University of Washington and then worked for a number of years with various non-profit organizations including, The Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington, Cedar River Clinics, Refugee Women's Alliance and Senior Services of King County. Devenport is currently a second year master's student in the Post-Secondary Administration and Student Affairs Program at the University of Southern California. She was also a full-time employee with the Keck School of Medicine's Department of Medicine where she served as the Appointments and Promotions Coordinator. Additionally, she has developed skills through various volunteer positions, serving on Nordstrom's Diversity Board, the planning committee of the Minidoka Pilgrimage and as a Victim Support Advocate for the Seattle Police Department's Domestic Violence Unit. Devenport was placed at the Office of Alumni Affairs to complete her primary placement internship hours, and at the Office of Student Life to complete her secondary placement internship hours.
Jessica Joseph and Jane Devenport were the sixth pair of Graduate Interns in Student Affairs/Student Services Administration to join AUK as part of the program that enables interns to develop a deeper understanding of higher education administration, and to acquire specific skill sets which will help prepare them for a career in the profession. The program offers placements possibilities in seven different professional areas within AUK including the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Office of Admissions, the Office of Alumni Affairs, the Office of the Registrar, Academic Advising & Learning Support Services, the Career Services & Wellness Center, and the Office of Student Life.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 18th September 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
AUK Professor and Chair of the Department of Music and Drama, Dr. Lisa Urkevich, has produced and authored a CD and Booklet featuring the Hamid Bin Hussein Band, a premiere traditional ensemble of the Arabian Gulf. For over a decade, Dr. Urkevich has worked closely with Gulf musicians, recording hundreds of hours of their performances, and these newly released tracks are choice gems from that fieldwork. The audio files and text, entitled Kuwait: Sea Songs of the Arabian Gulf, are published by Multicultural Media as part of the esteemed Music of the Earth series. Currently, these are the only recordings in the series from the Arabian Peninsula and thus they shine a special light on the artistic culture of Kuwait within the greater region.
The Arabian Gulf is one of the most musically vibrant areas of the entire peninsula. Over the centuries, many categories of arts have flourished, but it is the songs of the sea that have had a special place in the hearts of nationals. The musical color and texture of Upper Gulf music is unique in the Arab world, as large choirs of men join voices to sing heartfelt, haunting melodies over vibrant, percussive timbres. Until the early 20th century sea songs were heard constantly by the community, as they were sung for both work and recreation, on ship and shore, and during weddings and at standard late-night gatherings. When sea livelihood diminished, large "bands" began to form to keep the musical traditions alive. Today, less than a dozen authentic maritime music groups survive. Among the most lauded is the Hamid Bin Hussein Sea Band of Kuwait who are featured on these recordings. These men, who for the most part are descendants of pearlers and seamen, are cherished in the community, since their performances are both historical representations and impassioned art. The recordings and detailed booklet, with over 30 images, musical examples, and explanations of the performance structure, provide a significant glimpse into a precious music of an ancient culture.
The audio files and text of Kuwait: Sea Songs of the Arabian Gulf are each sold separately and available digitally on ITunes, IBook, and Kindle among other online sites.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 17th September 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
Marking the start of a new academic year, the American University of Kuwait (AUK) opened doors to new and returning students yesterday. Classes are in full swing and campus life is geared up for a bolstering schedule of events.
Earlier last week the University held two orientation sessions for its newly enrolled students in the Undergraduate Program and the Intensive English Program (IEP), respectively. The orientation days are annual events designed to familiarize the students with the AUK community and college life, as well as to get them excited about the new transition to university environment.
The first orientation session was dedicated to undergraduate students, and started with an official welcome event, featuring addresses by AUK President, Professor Dr. Nizar Hamzeh; Vice President for Student Affairs-Dr. Carol Ross; Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences-Dr. Rawda Awwad; Interim Dean of the College of Business and Economics- Dr. John Russell; along with AUK Alumna, Ms. May Omran.
During his welcome remarks, President Hamzeh congratulated the new students for choosing AUK for their next educational pursuits, assuring them that they "will study with highly qualified faculty in the areas of general education, social sciences, arts, humanities, engineering, sciences, and business," and encouraging each one of them to "take full advantage of AUK's quality education and the extra-curricular experiences that the University will offer." President Hamzeh concluded his talk by wishing the students "a pleasant and successful academic year" while reminding them to always talk with and seek support from AUK faculty and staff members on all matters related to their learning process.
Dean Awwad highlighted the role of the College of Arts and Sciences in "establishing a positive educational culture" among AUK students, calling upon the newcomers to "continue building upon this culture and history by setting your goals intelligently, pursuing them with a sense of passion." The Dean of Arts and Sciences concluded her talk by advising the students - as they pursue their educational journey - to "remain honest..., be truthful to your goals; remain humble; give yourself an opportunity to carefully listen to the ideas of others; and provide yourself with the time and space for periods of self-reflection."
Professor Russell emphasized the role of cultural and intellectual interaction among students in enriching the college experience and achieving future success. He addressed students asking them to be different, He called on them to look around them in the auditorium saying "You will see somebody who is different to you, somebody who studies something different to you, or thinks different to you. Learn to interact with them and see what they see and how they see it."
Throughout the event, VP Ross created an uplifting atmosphere, delivered energetic speeches, and invited the new students to blend into the collegiate community and seize opportunities to benefit from all extra-curricular activities offered at AUK. VP Ross explained to students the importance of learning "outside the classroom", which is as an integral component of a liberal arts education. Pushing the students to achieve the highest levels of excellence is the ultimate goal of AUK, as explained by VP Ross, who promised the students support along their educational journey. "If you stumble, we will absolutely pick you up. We are here to support you." Concluding her speech, VP Ross announced the new AUK initiative: "AUKause", urging students to engage in community service and civic activities, along with their college studies, as a way to give back to the society.
May Omran, a 2014 AUK Alumna, who was recently hired by the AUK Registrar Office also shared her collegiate experience with the new students. Omran stressed the importance of student engagement in co-curricular activities describing it as "the factor of success during university years". Omran recalled her experience at AUK saying "I must tell you that if it wasn't for being engaged both inside and outside of the classroom, my journey here as a student wouldn't have been worthwhile"
Following the official welcome ceremony, the undergraduate campus orientation tour commenced, guided by members of the Division of Student Affairs. The tour stopped at the different campus facilitates, including the AUK Library, classrooms and labs, sports facilities, the AUK Hangout, as well as dining facilities. The campus tour offered the students the chance to get acquainted with their new study environment in an informal setting where they got to examine the facilities that interest them and meet more staff and faculty members.
The two-day orientation program also included a day dedicated to the newly registered students in the AUK Intensive English Program (IEP). The IEP orientation featured a series of short speeches delivered by AUK officials, along with Ms. Sandra Stein, the IEP Director, who addressed the students saying, "Success is in your own hand. Now imagine your goal and put it in your hand. Visualize it there. Keep this vision in your mind as you study this semester and next. If you keep that vision of success firmly in your mind and work hard to achieve that goal, you will be successful! The choice is yours." The IEP orientation also included the class photo taken of the newly registered IEP students, as well as a campus tour.
This year, the AUK IEP program is celebrating its unconditional re-accreditation for a period of ten (10) years by the U.S-based Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA). The re-accreditation was the fruit of rigorous efforts by the IEP staff to support students who need to improve their English language skills to the level required to study at AUK.
To further assist newly enrolled students in making a smooth transition into collegiate life and get them well acquainted with the different AUK activities, the AUK Office of Student Life will be organizing a variety of recreational and educational events in the first University month. This will include, a Welcome Back Week featuring the Involvement Fair, a clubs, organizations and departments' fair; the Garnet and Gold Happy Hour, where students and faculty meet and greet; the Big Day Out sponsored by the Hang Out and featuring an afternoon of indoor and outdoor games; the AUKafe'-which brings out the talented musicians of the University.
As AUK continues to celebrate 10 years of excellence, the University welcomes 6 new fulltime faculty members, in the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Economics and the Intensive English Program. The University is also introducing a new academic program this year in Human Resource Management, to reach a total of 15 academic programs in the different areas of arts, sciences, business, and economics.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 15th September 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
New AUK Students
The American University of Kuwait (AUK) announced that its Intensive English Program (IEP) has been granted unconditional re-accreditation for a period of ten (10) years by the U.S-based Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).
" This significant accomplishment is indicative of exceptional teamwork, a program capable of building upon its strengths and successes, and of the standards that the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) upholds in the delivery of education," said Dr Rawda Awwad, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at AUK. "My appreciation goes to the IEP faculty and staff, and former Directors of the IEP, Ms. Rebecca Loomis, Ms. Debra Hoffer, and the current Director Sandra Stein who participated in this process. My appreciation also goes to all University departments and units that supported this effort."
The Intensive English Program at AUK received its first CEA accreditation back in 2009 after a rigorous two-year examination process through which a team of international evaluators conducted an onsite review that included financial audits, student services assessment and a survey of all procedures. Based on the entire process and the teams' report to the CEA Accrediting Commission, IEP was granted international accreditation in August 2009. At that time, AUK was the second institution to achieve CEA accreditation for its Intensive English Program in the in the Middle East.
To receive re-accreditation, the University submitted to the Commission a letter of intent in April 2012 in order to pursue the distinguished designation. In November 2013, the IEP team submitted a self-study report to the CEA. All program materials were sent for review to internationally recognized subject specialists chosen by the CEA. Standards addressed included the mission, curriculum, faculty, length and structure of the program, program development, planning and review, facilities, administrative and fiscal facilities, student services, recruiting, student achievement and student complaints.
Based in Alexandria, Virginia, CEA was founded in 1999 by English language professionals as a specialized accrediting agency. Its purpose is to provide a means for improving the quality of English language teaching and administration through accepted standards. CEA conducts accreditation reviews in the U.S. and internationally.
CEA is recognized by the United States Department of Education, whose approval attests to the high quality of CEA as an accrediting agency. The recognition allows English language institutions in the United States to use CEA accreditation for purposes of certification to admit international students.
As part of the AUK College of Art and Sciences, the IEP is designed to support students who need to improve their English language skills to the level required to study at AUK. The Program enables students to gain sufficient mastery of the English language and successfully apply the critical thinking skills they need to excel as students both during and after their formal studies.
Dr. Rawda Awwad, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences
Media Translation students from the American University of Kuwait (AUK) went on a field trip to visit the Ministry of Information. The field trip was organized by Professor Mohammed Akbar, the instructor of the course, who has worked at the Ministry for over 20 years (1992 - 2013). During their visit, the students were given the opportunity to discover what goes on behind the scenes inside the filming studios and translation offices.
The students also met with the Director of KTV2, Mr. Abdulmajid Al Jazzaf, who took the time to answer some questions the students had. One of the students asked Al Jazzaf if working within the Ministry of Information limited the employees to working only from Kuwait. "Of course we take new employers abroad! We had the opportunity in taking our employers to Boston, London, and Cairo; however, we chose Boston and London," explained Al Jazzaf.
Following the tour, which the students had documented on their personal social media accounts, the Director wished the students luck with their education and encouraged them to apply for employment at the Ministry when they graduate.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 21st July 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
In a remarkable banquet held at Shaikha Salwa Al-Sabah Ballroom, the American University of Kuwait celebrated its decade of accomplishments with its Board of Trustees, management, faculty and staff. The highlight of this year's event was a keynote speech given by Shaikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al Ahmed Al Sabah, Founder and Chair of the AUK Broad of Trustees, in which she acknowledged the AUK faculty and staff for their "commitment, service and effort" throughout the past 10 years.
During her commemorative speech, Al Sabah analogized the AUK start-up phase to giving birth to a new human being. "AUK was born out of sheer will and determination. Similar to the experience of every mother, I and others felt a huge responsibility toward its growth and success," said Al Sabah, who described the 10-year journey of AUK as "everything but easy." As a founder of AUK, Al Sabah looked back at the 10-year life of AUK as a collaborative endeavor that "many hands and minds" helped to create. "For all of us AUK was a first. We labored, guided, made good and sometimes not so good decisions, we tried to correct, we were successful in part, and were challenged by the expected, as well as the unexpected. But despite all of the ups and downs, we moved forward, and we made every attempt at holding the course and the direction," she said
Al Sabah concluded her speech by a notable statement that encapsulated the mission of AUK, saying that "Through our students and alumni, we have given this nation an opportunity to Learn, Think and Become."
Held at the end of each academic year, the AUK Annual Dinner brings together the University management, faculty and staff members in celebration of their dedicated services. During the event, "10 Years of Service" and "5 Years of Service" awards are presented to employees who completed the relevant service years at AUK. This year, two additional award categories were added to include; the "AUK Start-up Team" award- granted to the 19 faculty and staff members who joined AUK before it started its operations in 2003; and the "AUK Board of Trustees" award granted to the found members of the AUK Board of Trustees.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the evening also featured a special documentary exclusively produced for the event, and chronicling AUK's achievements through the eyes of its alumni. The ambiance of the evening was enriched by a live piano performance presented by AUK student Faisal Al-Buhairi.
Released by the Office of Public Affairs on the 7th July 2014
Photography by the Office of Public Affairs (C) 2014
