News
27, Jun 2024
Exploring AI-Driven Accessibility: A Keynote at Nafath Majlis by Dr. Iyad Abu Doush
Director of Research and Grants, Dr. Iyad Abu Doush at the American University Of Kuwait presented as a keynote speaker at the prestigious 2nd Edition of “Nafath Majlis.” This significant event was hosted by the Mada Center and took place at the Qatar National Museum. Dr. Abu Doush delivered a presentation titled “The Current State of Artificial Intelligence Tools for Accessibility in Product Development,” providing invaluable insights into the advancements of AI technology aimed at enhancing accessibility.
Dr. Abu Doush's keynote presentation delved into the findings of his latest research, focusing on assessing the maturity of current generative AI tools for accessible product development. The research addressed a critical gap in the field: the lack of standardized methods and universally accepted performance metrics for evaluating AI tools tailored to accessibility needs. By proposing a comprehensive framework, the research aims to empower developers, designers, and stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding the adoption and refinement of AI-driven accessibility solutions.
The event gathered experts and specialists in ICT accessibility and assistive technology. It featured insightful sessions on how next-generation user interfaces can support people with disabilities. This collaboration highlights the ongoing commitment to advancing inclusive design practices and leveraging AI technology to create more accessible products.
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Dr. Abu Doush's keynote presentation delved into the findings of his latest research, focusing on assessing the maturity of current generative AI tools for accessible product development. The research addressed a critical gap in the field: the lack of standardized methods and universally accepted performance metrics for evaluating AI tools tailored to accessibility needs. By proposing a comprehensive framework, the research aims to empower developers, designers, and stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding the adoption and refinement of AI-driven accessibility solutions.
The event gathered experts and specialists in ICT accessibility and assistive technology. It featured insightful sessions on how next-generation user interfaces can support people with disabilities. This collaboration highlights the ongoing commitment to advancing inclusive design practices and leveraging AI technology to create more accessible products.
Dr. Abu Doush during the event
26, Jun 2024
AUK Appoints Dr. Mounib Khanafer as Associate Dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences
AUK associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, Dr. Mounib Khanafer, has been appointed as associate dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS). Dr. Khanafer, who joined AUK in 2013, has distinguished himself through his commitment to excellence, innovation, and leadership.
Dr. Khanafer's academic journey began with a B.Sc. degree (with honors) in electrical engineering from Kuwait University in 2002, followed by a M.A.Sc. in electrical engineering and a PhD in electrical and computer Engineering from the University of Ottawa, Canada, in 2007 and 2012, respectively.
With three years of industrial experience at Nortel Networks in Ottawa, Dr. Khanafer brings a rich blend of academic and practical knowledge to his new role. His postdoctoral research at the University of Ottawa's School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science focused on Wireless Sensor Networks, a field in which he has continued to excel.
Dr. Khanafer's scholarly achievements include co-receiving two Best Poster Awards and one Distinguished Paper Award, along with securing several research grants and professional development awards from AUK. In 2022, he was honored with the Dartmouth-AUK Fellowship to research privacy and security in Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart homes. His contributions to the fields of Wireless Sensor Networks and IoT are evidenced by over 30 published papers on related protocols and applications.
Beyond AUK, Dr. Khanafer has shared his expertise as a visiting professor at the University of Ottawa and Dartmouth College in 2015 and 2022, respectively. He is an active member of the IEEE Computer Society and holds the distinction of being a senior member of IEEE.
His extensive experience, coupled with his passion for education and research, promises to advance the College forward in preparing future leaders and innovators.
Dr. Khanafer's academic journey began with a B.Sc. degree (with honors) in electrical engineering from Kuwait University in 2002, followed by a M.A.Sc. in electrical engineering and a PhD in electrical and computer Engineering from the University of Ottawa, Canada, in 2007 and 2012, respectively.
With three years of industrial experience at Nortel Networks in Ottawa, Dr. Khanafer brings a rich blend of academic and practical knowledge to his new role. His postdoctoral research at the University of Ottawa's School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science focused on Wireless Sensor Networks, a field in which he has continued to excel.
Dr. Khanafer's scholarly achievements include co-receiving two Best Poster Awards and one Distinguished Paper Award, along with securing several research grants and professional development awards from AUK. In 2022, he was honored with the Dartmouth-AUK Fellowship to research privacy and security in Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart homes. His contributions to the fields of Wireless Sensor Networks and IoT are evidenced by over 30 published papers on related protocols and applications.
Beyond AUK, Dr. Khanafer has shared his expertise as a visiting professor at the University of Ottawa and Dartmouth College in 2015 and 2022, respectively. He is an active member of the IEEE Computer Society and holds the distinction of being a senior member of IEEE.
His extensive experience, coupled with his passion for education and research, promises to advance the College forward in preparing future leaders and innovators.
Dr. Mounib Khanafer
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24, Jun 2024
20 Years of Excellence: AUK Graduates Class of 2024
AUK held its graduation commencement for the class of 2024 on Wednesday 12th June conferring the degrees on 415 graduates—155 of which were from the College of Arts and Sciences, 128 from the College of Business and Economics, and 132 from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Amongst the 2024 cohort, 11 graduates were awarded highest honors (summa cum laude), 26 awarded high honors (magna cum laude), and 45 awarded honors (cum laude).
Held at The Arena Kuwait, the graduation ceremony was attended by Sheikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, founder and chair of AUK's Board of Trustees, members of the AUK board of trustees, diplomats, dignitaries, and families of this year's graduates.
Following the national anthem and the Holy Quran recitation, AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, acknowledged AUK’s 20-year anniversary by highlighting the University’s commitment to fulfilling its mission, “Since its establishment in 2004, AUK has been at the forefront of educational development and innovation. We are proud of our strategic vision, our partnerships with leading institutions like Dartmouth College, and our internationally accredited programs. Our outreach, training, service learning, and volunteer activities have provided spaces for personal growth and development.”
President Awwad then extended her well wishes to the graduates, “As you begin your new chapter in your life, please try to appreciate the wealth of knowledge and the values you've gained at AUK. Perseverance, collaboration, empathy, critical thinking, and the spirit of lifelong learning will guide you. Be compassionate and ethical in all that you do.”
This year’s keynote speech was delivered by Mr. Elie Habib, co-founder of Anghami and CEO of OSN+ and Anghami. He emphasized the importance of having a unique mindset in achieving success, “Discipline isn't just about what you choose to do, but also about what you choose not to do. I've met many successful people, and they all have one thing in common: they think differently than most people. They aren’t afraid to reinvent themselves around the goals that matter to them.”
Following the keynote address, AUK’s vice president for Student Affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan, announced the class valedictorian, Salah Ali Malek, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences with a 3.96 GPA.
During his speech, Salah addressed his peers and acknowledged how AUK's supportive environment contributed to his success, “As self-driven as one can be, it is unfeasible to thrive or prosper unless you are in the right environment, which leads me back to AUK. Through their culturally diverse, immensely friendly, highly professional, and academically validating environment, I was finally achieving results that reflect my value.”
The event then proceeded to the part of the ceremony most anticipated by the students—the distribution of their earned degrees. Upon the recommendations of the deans—Dr. Ali Charara, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Ralph Palliam, dean of the College of Business and Economics; and Dr. Mohamed El-Abd, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, President Awwad conferred upon the graduates their respective degrees. The graduates were then awarded their diplomas by President Awwad and respective college deans.
In keeping with the academic tradition, the graduates were requested to shift their tassels from right to left, thereby marking their official graduation from AUK. As the ceremony drew to its conclusion, the graduating class celebrated the occasion and took photos with their parents.
AUK is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence. Offering a diverse range of accredited undergraduate programs, the campus fosters collaboration and cultural diversity. AUK's state-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology and research laboratories, and students also enjoy recreational facilities such as the gymnasium and lounge. AUK is dedicated to empowering students with knowledge, skills, and experiences that transcend the classroom, shaping future leaders and change-makers.
AUK currently offers 16-degree programs in various academic disciplines. AUK received its institutional accreditation from the Private Universities Council (PUC) in Kuwait in 2006. The College of Business & Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business(AACSB); the College of Arts and Sciences is accredited by the American Academy for Liberal Education (AALE); its Bachelor of Arts in Design (concentration in graphic design) is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD); and the Intensive English Program is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA); the Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Held at The Arena Kuwait, the graduation ceremony was attended by Sheikha Dana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, founder and chair of AUK's Board of Trustees, members of the AUK board of trustees, diplomats, dignitaries, and families of this year's graduates.
Following the national anthem and the Holy Quran recitation, AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, acknowledged AUK’s 20-year anniversary by highlighting the University’s commitment to fulfilling its mission, “Since its establishment in 2004, AUK has been at the forefront of educational development and innovation. We are proud of our strategic vision, our partnerships with leading institutions like Dartmouth College, and our internationally accredited programs. Our outreach, training, service learning, and volunteer activities have provided spaces for personal growth and development.”
President Awwad then extended her well wishes to the graduates, “As you begin your new chapter in your life, please try to appreciate the wealth of knowledge and the values you've gained at AUK. Perseverance, collaboration, empathy, critical thinking, and the spirit of lifelong learning will guide you. Be compassionate and ethical in all that you do.”
This year’s keynote speech was delivered by Mr. Elie Habib, co-founder of Anghami and CEO of OSN+ and Anghami. He emphasized the importance of having a unique mindset in achieving success, “Discipline isn't just about what you choose to do, but also about what you choose not to do. I've met many successful people, and they all have one thing in common: they think differently than most people. They aren’t afraid to reinvent themselves around the goals that matter to them.”
Following the keynote address, AUK’s vice president for Student Affairs, Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Farhan, announced the class valedictorian, Salah Ali Malek, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences with a 3.96 GPA.
During his speech, Salah addressed his peers and acknowledged how AUK's supportive environment contributed to his success, “As self-driven as one can be, it is unfeasible to thrive or prosper unless you are in the right environment, which leads me back to AUK. Through their culturally diverse, immensely friendly, highly professional, and academically validating environment, I was finally achieving results that reflect my value.”
The event then proceeded to the part of the ceremony most anticipated by the students—the distribution of their earned degrees. Upon the recommendations of the deans—Dr. Ali Charara, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Ralph Palliam, dean of the College of Business and Economics; and Dr. Mohamed El-Abd, dean of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, President Awwad conferred upon the graduates their respective degrees. The graduates were then awarded their diplomas by President Awwad and respective college deans.
In keeping with the academic tradition, the graduates were requested to shift their tassels from right to left, thereby marking their official graduation from AUK. As the ceremony drew to its conclusion, the graduating class celebrated the occasion and took photos with their parents.
AUK is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence. Offering a diverse range of accredited undergraduate programs, the campus fosters collaboration and cultural diversity. AUK's state-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology and research laboratories, and students also enjoy recreational facilities such as the gymnasium and lounge. AUK is dedicated to empowering students with knowledge, skills, and experiences that transcend the classroom, shaping future leaders and change-makers.
AUK currently offers 16-degree programs in various academic disciplines. AUK received its institutional accreditation from the Private Universities Council (PUC) in Kuwait in 2006. The College of Business & Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business(AACSB); the College of Arts and Sciences is accredited by the American Academy for Liberal Education (AALE); its Bachelor of Arts in Design (concentration in graphic design) is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD); and the Intensive English Program is accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA); the Computer Science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
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23, Jun 2024
AUK Data Club Members Awarded for Outstanding Contributions
The Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK recently hosted the Data Club Appreciation Ceremony in the Conference Room. This event, organized in collaboration with the College of Business and Economics (CBE), recognized the Data Club members for their invaluable support in various ORG events.
Supervised by Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, ORG assistant director, Data Club members who contributed to events organized by ORG were awarded certificates in recognition of their significant contributions to university activities.
The event was attended by CBE dean, Dr. Ralph Palliam; Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director; and by Dr. Ahmad Alsaber. The ceremony began with an introductory presentation by Maya Raed Abdin, the president of the Data Club, who gave an overview of their activities and initiatives.
All Data Club members were awarded certificates for their contributions after the presentation. The recognized members included Maya Raed Abdin, Maitham Mahmoud Al-Sarraf, Dana Ali Ahmed Khalife, Aamnah T S A Alqutami, Nasser S A B AlYaseen, Nadeem Mohammad Najeeb, Taleen M A Ali, Abdulrazzaq Suleiman Al Abdulrazaq, Ruqayah W S A Safar, Ghazel A M S M Alsardi, Ahmed Q. AlAzzawi, Fatemah Meshari Altawari, Faisal A Al-Buaijan, Zahraa El Husseini, Hashim T. Algharabally, Jafar Jassim, Rana Mohammad Omar Abu Salah, Nour Tarek Fathi Fatthallah Ahmed, Laila Mohammed Alkhalifa, and Yousef Al Shami.
This ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the importance of teamwork and active participation in fostering a vibrant academic environment in AUK.
Supervised by Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, ORG assistant director, Data Club members who contributed to events organized by ORG were awarded certificates in recognition of their significant contributions to university activities.
The event was attended by CBE dean, Dr. Ralph Palliam; Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director; and by Dr. Ahmad Alsaber. The ceremony began with an introductory presentation by Maya Raed Abdin, the president of the Data Club, who gave an overview of their activities and initiatives.
All Data Club members were awarded certificates for their contributions after the presentation. The recognized members included Maya Raed Abdin, Maitham Mahmoud Al-Sarraf, Dana Ali Ahmed Khalife, Aamnah T S A Alqutami, Nasser S A B AlYaseen, Nadeem Mohammad Najeeb, Taleen M A Ali, Abdulrazzaq Suleiman Al Abdulrazaq, Ruqayah W S A Safar, Ghazel A M S M Alsardi, Ahmed Q. AlAzzawi, Fatemah Meshari Altawari, Faisal A Al-Buaijan, Zahraa El Husseini, Hashim T. Algharabally, Jafar Jassim, Rana Mohammad Omar Abu Salah, Nour Tarek Fathi Fatthallah Ahmed, Laila Mohammed Alkhalifa, and Yousef Al Shami.
This ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the importance of teamwork and active participation in fostering a vibrant academic environment in AUK.
General photo from the ceremony
Group photo of data club members
23, Jun 2024
AUK Unlocks Opportunities: Hosts The London School of Economics
The Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK hosted a workshop titled “The London School of Economics (LSE): The Kuwait Programme Opportunities” at the AUK theater. During the event, representatives from the LSE Kuwait Programme highlighted the various opportunities available to PhD students and early career researchers. Funded by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), this year's program is dedicated to advancing excellence in healthcare.
The workshop delved into academic collaborations and fellowships between LSE and Kuwait, healthcare policy workshops, and research publications. The session was led by Mercedes Masters, the program coordinator at the Kuwait Programme, and Amira Djuric, the communications coordinator at the Kuwait Programme.
At the beginning of the presentation, Masters was welcomed on stage by Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director and professor of computer science. Masters provided important information about the application process, including key dates and eligibility criteria for candidates.
She also discussed papers and blogs related to the Kuwait Programme as well as details pertaining to the publication process. Djuric later informed the audience about the annual conference of the program and policy workshops.
By hosting such workshops, AUK positions itself at the forefront of research initiatives in Kuwait, reaffirming its reputation as a dynamic hub for academic exchange and innovation in the region.
The workshop delved into academic collaborations and fellowships between LSE and Kuwait, healthcare policy workshops, and research publications. The session was led by Mercedes Masters, the program coordinator at the Kuwait Programme, and Amira Djuric, the communications coordinator at the Kuwait Programme.
At the beginning of the presentation, Masters was welcomed on stage by Dr. Iyad Abu Doush, ORG director and professor of computer science. Masters provided important information about the application process, including key dates and eligibility criteria for candidates.
She also discussed papers and blogs related to the Kuwait Programme as well as details pertaining to the publication process. Djuric later informed the audience about the annual conference of the program and policy workshops.
By hosting such workshops, AUK positions itself at the forefront of research initiatives in Kuwait, reaffirming its reputation as a dynamic hub for academic exchange and innovation in the region.
Group photo of the workshop’s organizers
23, Jun 2024
Celebrating Academic Excellence: AUK IEP Graduation
AUK marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of its students with IEP’s recent graduation. This special occasion celebrated the achievements of students who successfully completed their Intensive English Program (IEP) courses during the fall 2023 and spring 2024 semesters.
A total of 120 students were honored with certificates acknowledging their dedication and hard work, with ten students receiving awards for their outstanding achievement in their IEP courses. These students were selected by the faculty based on their exceptional performance, commitment, and academic excellence.
Dr. Ali Charara, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS); and Dr. Georges Chedid, representing the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, attended the graduation.
The IEP program plays a crucial role in AUK's academic framework, underscoring the university's dedication to fostering and enhancing the academic growth of its students.
A total of 120 students were honored with certificates acknowledging their dedication and hard work, with ten students receiving awards for their outstanding achievement in their IEP courses. These students were selected by the faculty based on their exceptional performance, commitment, and academic excellence.
Dr. Ali Charara, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS); and Dr. Georges Chedid, representing the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, attended the graduation.
The IEP program plays a crucial role in AUK's academic framework, underscoring the university's dedication to fostering and enhancing the academic growth of its students.
Dr. Georges Chedid
Group photo of the graduates
Group photo of the graduates
23, Jun 2024
Enhancing Cross-Cultural Communication: AUK's Faculty Speaker Series Explores English as Soft Power
AUK recently concluded its Spring 2024 Faculty Speaker Series (FSS) with an insightful session titled "English as a Soft Power - Ukrainian Perspective.” The virtual event, held via Zoom, featured Dr. Serhii Petrenko from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv as the esteemed speaker.
Dr. Petrenko, an associate professor at the Department of Foreign Languages, brought his expertise in linguistics and international relations to the forefront, shedding light on the pivotal role of English language proficiency in fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting public diplomacy.
The session commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Salime Smadi, professor of organizational behavior, who expressed gratitude to Dr. Petrenko, as well as Dr. Olha Seheda from the Embassy of Ukraine, for their participation.
Dr. Petrenko's presentation delved into the multifaceted aspects of English as a soft power tool, emphasizing its significance in cultural exchange and public diplomacy. Drawing on his extensive experience in teaching English for Academic Purpose (EAP) and English for Specific Purposes (ESP), Dr. Petrenko explored practical implications for Kuwaiti students amidst the prevalent presence of English in Kuwait.
Attendees were actively engaged throughout the session, which included interactive elements such as discussions on the associations with AI-generated images and the examination of various dimensions of soft power in diplomacy. Dr. Petrenko elucidated on the pillars of soft power, highlighting culture, values, and foreign policy as key components.
The presentation underscored the vital roles of language in diplomacy, ranging from negotiation to fostering cross-cultural understanding. Dr. Petrenko advocated for innovative English language teaching approaches, including backward planning, project-based learning, and the Dogme approach, to enhance students' language skills effectively.
FSS serves as a platform for intellectual discourse and knowledge exchange, reaffirming AUK's commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.
Dr. Petrenko, an associate professor at the Department of Foreign Languages, brought his expertise in linguistics and international relations to the forefront, shedding light on the pivotal role of English language proficiency in fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting public diplomacy.
The session commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Salime Smadi, professor of organizational behavior, who expressed gratitude to Dr. Petrenko, as well as Dr. Olha Seheda from the Embassy of Ukraine, for their participation.
Dr. Petrenko's presentation delved into the multifaceted aspects of English as a soft power tool, emphasizing its significance in cultural exchange and public diplomacy. Drawing on his extensive experience in teaching English for Academic Purpose (EAP) and English for Specific Purposes (ESP), Dr. Petrenko explored practical implications for Kuwaiti students amidst the prevalent presence of English in Kuwait.
Attendees were actively engaged throughout the session, which included interactive elements such as discussions on the associations with AI-generated images and the examination of various dimensions of soft power in diplomacy. Dr. Petrenko elucidated on the pillars of soft power, highlighting culture, values, and foreign policy as key components.
The presentation underscored the vital roles of language in diplomacy, ranging from negotiation to fostering cross-cultural understanding. Dr. Petrenko advocated for innovative English language teaching approaches, including backward planning, project-based learning, and the Dogme approach, to enhance students' language skills effectively.
FSS serves as a platform for intellectual discourse and knowledge exchange, reaffirming AUK's commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.
Screenshot of zoom lecture
23, Jun 2024
Writing & Tutoring Center Celebrate Student Workers
The Writing and Tutoring Centers celebrated Peer Tutors, Writing Consultants, and Study Area Assistants as they completed a successful academic year assisting AUK students and faculty in various disciplines. Staff recognized the attendees’ efforts throughout the academic year by presenting the Centers’ data which included the hours completed by Study Area Assistants, besides sharing the total number of students served and visits held by Peer Tutors and Writing Consultants. In addition, Peer Tutors who completed the required training modules and tutoring experience hours were awarded their CRLA (College Reading and Learning Association) certification.
General photos of the celebration
10, Jun 2024
AUK Honors Long-Serving Employees
AUK hosted its annual dinner at Crown Plaza to celebrate the institution’s administrative achievements and accomplishments. The event—organized by the University’s Human Resources Department—was attended by staff, faculty, and members of the president’s cabinet.
The event recognized and awarded employees who completed 5, 10, 15, and 20 years of service at AUK. These awards celebrated their enduring commitment and significant contributions to the University's growth and success.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, who was one of the honorees for serving 20 years at the University, conveyed her gratitude towards AUK employees in her opening statement, “This year has shown again our strength, resilience, and unity within our university community, despite the challenges. Together, we have embraced new opportunities, made every attempt at trying to support one another, and achieved extraordinary results. Thank you for everything that you do day-in, and day-out. Thank you for your patience and for your shared success, thank you for your dedication, and thank you for your belief in that we can always be better and do better.”
HR senior director, Paul Bassil, highlighted the importance of these annual dinners, “The annual employee dinner holds great significance for us as it provides a valuable opportunity to foster employee engagement, strengthen team spirit, and show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the employees. It also serves as a platform to communicate company values, recognize achievements, and build morale within the organization.”
The annual dinner also offered attendees enjoyable entertainment, including musical performances, entertainment shows, and a raffle draw to conclude the festivities.
AUK consistently demonstrates its strong culture of employee recognition through events like the annual dinner, which spotlight the valuable contributions of faculty and staff.
The event recognized and awarded employees who completed 5, 10, 15, and 20 years of service at AUK. These awards celebrated their enduring commitment and significant contributions to the University's growth and success.
AUK president, Dr. Rawda Awwad, who was one of the honorees for serving 20 years at the University, conveyed her gratitude towards AUK employees in her opening statement, “This year has shown again our strength, resilience, and unity within our university community, despite the challenges. Together, we have embraced new opportunities, made every attempt at trying to support one another, and achieved extraordinary results. Thank you for everything that you do day-in, and day-out. Thank you for your patience and for your shared success, thank you for your dedication, and thank you for your belief in that we can always be better and do better.”
HR senior director, Paul Bassil, highlighted the importance of these annual dinners, “The annual employee dinner holds great significance for us as it provides a valuable opportunity to foster employee engagement, strengthen team spirit, and show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the employees. It also serves as a platform to communicate company values, recognize achievements, and build morale within the organization.”
The annual dinner also offered attendees enjoyable entertainment, including musical performances, entertainment shows, and a raffle draw to conclude the festivities.
AUK consistently demonstrates its strong culture of employee recognition through events like the annual dinner, which spotlight the valuable contributions of faculty and staff.
Dr. Rawda Awwad giving her speech
Paul Bassil giving his speech
Group photo of 20 years of service awardees
Group photo of 15 years of service awardees
Group photo of 5 years of service awardees
09, Jun 2024
AUK Art & Graphic Design Department Launches 18th Biannual Capstone Exhibition
The Art & Graphic Design Department at AUK launched its Spring 2024 Capstone Design Exhibition which took place at the University’s exhibition center. The exhibition offered senior students an opportunity to display their creative work, which covered a range of themes, including social and cultural awareness, corporate identity, and entrepreneurship.
The exhibition ran for one week and participating students were evaluated by industry experts based on their creativity and presentation, their ability to conduct and use graphic design research strategy effectively, and their ability to plan and implement a compelling graphic design display.
Acting Chair of the Art & Graphic Design Department, Dr. Fahad A. Dhawi, commented on the exhibition and what it represents, “This year was exceptional as we hosted our Spring 2024 Capstone Exhibition Event in-house, providing a wonderful opportunity for students, faculty, and visitors to see students’ work and experience our campus and the new exhibition center in the G-Building. It's inspiring to see AUK's commitment to student potential. This year's capstone proved that we are stronger and bolder as a community when we collaborate. On behalf of the department, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the president and the dean of the College for their continued support.”
Held biannually, the Capstone Design Exhibition brings together visitors from graphic design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Commenting on the success of this year’s exhibition, capstone professor, Rita Merheb, stated, "In today's rapidly evolving graphic design field, our students have embraced these advancements, ensuring they are well-prepared for industry demands. Their projects highlight the importance of staying current with technological trends. The Capstone Exhibition provides a unique opportunity for the public, including industry professionals and potential employers, to witness the future of graphic design through our talented graduates' eyes.”
Sharing the same sentiment was capstone professor Nadim Matta, “This year’s capstone event was a successful collaboration based on the feedback of all faculty members of the Art and Graphic Design Department. Students explored in their design journey across different projects multiple themes and creative outputs that tackled real-life problems and aimed at providing creative, original and compelling visual solutions. The student’s work reflected their creative, cultural and visual maturity as they progressed in their mode of study to reach their capstone project”.
AUK’s Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition presents an opportunity for senior students to fully incorporate their design strengths and learning into a focused and extended process of research and visual expression.
The exhibition ran for one week and participating students were evaluated by industry experts based on their creativity and presentation, their ability to conduct and use graphic design research strategy effectively, and their ability to plan and implement a compelling graphic design display.
Acting Chair of the Art & Graphic Design Department, Dr. Fahad A. Dhawi, commented on the exhibition and what it represents, “This year was exceptional as we hosted our Spring 2024 Capstone Exhibition Event in-house, providing a wonderful opportunity for students, faculty, and visitors to see students’ work and experience our campus and the new exhibition center in the G-Building. It's inspiring to see AUK's commitment to student potential. This year's capstone proved that we are stronger and bolder as a community when we collaborate. On behalf of the department, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the president and the dean of the College for their continued support.”
Held biannually, the Capstone Design Exhibition brings together visitors from graphic design studios, publishing houses, film and video production companies, advertising, and multimedia firms.
Commenting on the success of this year’s exhibition, capstone professor, Rita Merheb, stated, "In today's rapidly evolving graphic design field, our students have embraced these advancements, ensuring they are well-prepared for industry demands. Their projects highlight the importance of staying current with technological trends. The Capstone Exhibition provides a unique opportunity for the public, including industry professionals and potential employers, to witness the future of graphic design through our talented graduates' eyes.”
Sharing the same sentiment was capstone professor Nadim Matta, “This year’s capstone event was a successful collaboration based on the feedback of all faculty members of the Art and Graphic Design Department. Students explored in their design journey across different projects multiple themes and creative outputs that tackled real-life problems and aimed at providing creative, original and compelling visual solutions. The student’s work reflected their creative, cultural and visual maturity as they progressed in their mode of study to reach their capstone project”.
AUK’s Graphic Design Capstone Exhibition presents an opportunity for senior students to fully incorporate their design strengths and learning into a focused and extended process of research and visual expression.
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