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AUK welcomed its 23rd Dartmouth intern since 2005, Shloka Ranjan Kini, a third year student at Dartmouth College from the town of Schererville, Indiana, a suburb of Chicago. She will be working in the Information Technology Office, the Writing Center and with Computer Science Faculty. She will also be serving as a teaching assistant in our guitar classes at AUK. At Dartmouth, she is majoring in Computer Science and plans to pursue pre-medical studies. She has participated in several Rockefeller Center programs while at Dartmouth, such as the First Year Fellows program, a program which allowed her to intern in Washington D.C. for a summer, and the Management Leadership Development Program. She has served as a teaching assistant in the Computer Science Department for their Introduction to Computer Science (Java) course. She has also conducted research through the Women in Science Project with Professor Pellacini in the Computer Science Department. More recently, she has served as a Program Assistant at the Rockefeller Center, helping with the management of their new database and serving as a graphic designer in their Policy Research Shop.

Currently, she is very involved in the school's radio station, WDCR, and has her own weekly radio show, which currently features theme-driven Oldies Western and Bollywood songs. At Dartmouth, she has participated in a variety of other student activities, but her true passion lies with performance. Shloka plays the piano, guitar, and alto saxophone, and has played with various bands; she has also been a singer and a dancer from a young age.

Previously, she has been Valedictorian of her high school class, a National Merit Scholar, and was nominated as Governor of Indiana through the Hoosier Girls State program as well as winning national prizes for her proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications and Database Applications. She is a first generation American of Indian parents, and she is looking forward to spending the fall term in Kuwait. Shloka will be at AUK until the middle of November 2011.

Released by the PR & Marketing Department on the 20th September 2011

Photography by the AUK Public Relations & Marketing Department (C) 2011

Associate Professor of English Language & Literature at AUK Dr. Ghazi Q. Nassir authored a new book titled Samuel Johnson's Attitude Toward Islam: A Study of His Oriental Readings and Writings to be released October 31, 2011 by the Edwin Mellen Press.

The main purpose of the book, Samuel Johnson's Attitude Toward Islam: A Study of His Oriental Readings and Writings, is to demonstrate how Samuel Johnson's Irene, Rasselas and his other short Oriental tales (four in the Rambler and three in the Idler) share, with previous Oriental writings, a common focus on Islam, Arabs, their culture, and political systems. Johnson's assessments of and observations on Islam and Arab cultures in both his writings and conversations clearly prove that he looked at them less objectively. His treatment of the Orient was highly biased. The book seeks to furnish students of Eighteenth Century English Literature, Johnsonian scholars and orientalists with some useful observations on Johnson's Orientalism, as a whole, as well as on particular works in light of what is now known of Samuel Johnson's life, personality, psychological profile, and the intellectual and literary milieu in which he wrote.

The author's main concern is the attitude and the opinions of Johnson, more than the sources that were available to him. By the same token, the use that he made of these sources is a strong indication of his attitude. Generally speaking, when an author like Johnson, who is famous for his fantastic memory, deletes or adds information, this allows readers to see that he purposely knew the information was wrong, and absurd. Moreover, Johnson spoiled the effect of his Orientalism with his strong sense of the Westâs superiority over the East. However, his lack of sympathy with and understanding of Islam and the Muslim culture destroys the integrity of the main characters of both Irene and Rasselas. In fact, Johnson was temperamentally hostile to Islamic culture, particularly to the Prophet Mohammed and Muslims. In general, all Johnsonâs letters, conversations, and writings indicate that his opinions and attitudes about the Orient, its customs, its civilization, and its religion were not flattering. Similarly, his ideas about Mohammed and Islam were dictated by old inherited prejudices. Following the tradition of old polemics, he regarded Mohammed as a false prophet, an enthusiast who manipulated his religion to gratify his sexual desires. His followers were merely dupes or lustful and lazy people.

Released by the PR & Marketing Department on the 19th September 2011

Photography by the AUK Public Relations & Marketing Department (C) 2011

With a new incoming Freshmen class and a student body fresh from summer, AUK's Office of Student Life held its Annual Welcome Week from September 11-14, to promote interaction among students and provide opportunities to learn about the resources, support structures and activities available on campus. Welcome Week is designed to thrust new students into University life, and give students the opportunity to meet with staff and faculty.

This year's events kicked-off with a 'Welcome Back Barbeque' on September 11th, where the University welcomed its new Freshmen Class of 2015. This event saw 250 students, faculty and staff share in the commencement of the new 2011-12 Academic year.

Students, especially Freshmen, had an opportunity to get to know their professors, instructors and staff members at the 'Faculty and Staff Meet & Greet' on September 12th. Approximately 150 students, staff and faculty socialized, giving students a chance to familiarize themselves with the AUK community as well as their future professors, in an effort to enhance their academic success.

Highlighting the week was the 'Involvement Fair' on September 13th, where an array of activities was on display for students to choose from throughout the academic year. Students were introduced to all the clubs and organizations available to them on campus, as well as athletic teams and recreational activities. The 'Involvement Fair' also introduced students to all the different departments at AUK and their functions, ensuring that students have all the information necessary for a successful year.

The Hangout Tent, is a great place for students to relax, play games and get to know their fellow students, which is why 'Welcome Back to the Hangout' was a great event for Freshmen and Transfers. Students were given the opportunity to know more about the Hangout Tent and its activities and events throughout the academic year. 'Welcome Week' concluded with a fun activity outside of campus. Students were invited to Bowling @ 360 Mall Bowl Room giving them a chance to interact with each other outside a university setting.

'Welcome Week' was a great success this year with many Freshmen and Intensive English Students taking part in many of the events held. These events are meant to ensure a smooth transition into academic life for all students, whether IEP, Freshmen or Transfers, and ensure students that AUK is their home away from home.

Released by the PR & Marketing Department on the 18th September 2011

Photography by the AUK Public Relations & Marketing Department (C) 2011

AUK welcomed its third pair of graduate interns, Lamees Galal and Genevieve Sullivan, who will spend eight weeks of their summer completing graduate internships within the Division of Administrative and Student Affairs. Lamees will be at AUK until July 16 working in the Office of Admissions, and in the Office of the Vice President of Administrative and Student Affairs. Genevieve will be at AUK until July 28 working in the Office of the Registrar and in the Office of Student Life.

Lamees Galal, originally from Syracuse, New York, enjoyed learning about the Arabic culture and language while spending many summers visiting her family in Egypt. Some of her fondest memories include visiting The Great Pyramids of Giza and snorkeling in the Red Sea. Lamees attended St. John's University in Queens, New York, where she studied Finance as an undergraduate. She enjoyed attending school in New York City, decided to get involved on campus and became a student worker at the university library for all four years. Also, she became a resident assistant for three years where she was able to make connections with her residents and assist in their transition to college. Additionally, Lamees was able to obtain a marketing internship at MTV Networks in Times Square. Through her position as a resident assistant, Lamees decided to pursue a career in student affairs. Lamees is currently attending Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. She is studying Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education. Her assistantship is in Housing and Residence Life as an Assistant Residence Hall Director in an international living learning community.

Lamees chose to come to AUK because, "family members of mine have previously worked in Kuwait and the Gulf region. From their stories, I knew it would be a great experience. With this internship, I'm excited to apply what I learned about student development theory in a different culture. I look forward to working in Admissions, the Vice President's Office, and practicing my Arabic!"

Genevieve Sullivan, originally from South Bend, Indiana, began her path to a career in higher education with experiences at her undergraduate institution as the student director of Community Outreach and Resources at the University of Mary Washington. Through this it was clear that she had a passion for engaging students in volunteerism, and after obtaining a degree in Geography Genevieve moved to Chicago, IL to begin working at a large non-profit, Chicago Cares. While working at Chicago Cares she was able to plan large-scale volunteer projects for companies and corporations, honing her event planning skills; but it was clear that she was to become a student affairs administrator. The University of Denver accepted Genevieve Sullivan in August 2010, complete with a Student Life Fellowship. This program emphasizes practical experience along with instruction to obtain a Master of Arts in Higher Education. The Fellowship allowed Genevieve to work planning volunteer programs for undergraduate students in the office of campus activities as well as find a love for Greek Life as a House Director of the Alpha Phi sorority.

When asked why she chose AUK Genevieve said, "When I heard about the internship at AUK, I thought it would be a perfect experience. This internship allows me to study abroad, learn about a culture other then my own, and learn how to work in several different areas at a University. I am thrilled to have been selected to participate in this unique opportunity."

As the program began in 2009, Lamees & Genevieve are the third pair of Graduate Interns to participate and this summer are helping the program celebrate its recognition as the award recipient for the NASPA International Education Knowledge Community 2011 Best Practice Award for International Exchange Programs.

Released by the PR & Marketing Department on the 19th June 2011

Mishref, Kuwait, June 16, 2011: The Graduation Ceremony of the Class of 2011 at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) took place at Kuwait International Fairgrounds (KIF) at 10 am on Thursday, June 16. The ceremony commenced with the Kuwaiti national anthem and a recitation of the Holy Quran. Graduates then began to march towards the stage waving to their friends and families as they took their seats. AUK President Winfred Thompson then welcomed students, and their families to the ceremony as well as AUK Chair Sheikha Dana Nasser Al-Sabah along with several board members and numerous dignitaries and diplomats.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Thompson addressed how the region and the Arab world are at the cusp of a new chapter in history, facing uncertain times and an unknown future, but "What I can hope-and even, I think, predict-is that your education at AUK will help you to better face the challenges of your life, fulfill your plans for the future, and reward the hopes and dreams of your parents and your families".

The President then introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa, a Kuwaiti clinical psychologist and creator of THE 99, the first group of comic superheroes born of an Islamic archetype. Dr. Naif's speech focused on three major points, education and innovation, balancing one's life and entrepreneurship, all told through personal anecdotes. Dr. Naif explored the reality of our present situation in the Arab world and encouraged graduates to work towards a better future. "I have spent the last two years trying to balance my life out. I am still a work in progress. You too will be works in progress your whole life. Working too much was my drug and I numbed myself. I implore you, don't let complacency be yours. We need you to create jobs, not just consume them. You are the future." He concluded his speech on an inspiration note, letting the graduates know that "anything is possible; anything at all."

Click here for the Graduation 2011 Slideshow

Vice President of Administrative and Student Affairs Dr. Carol Ross-Scott then introduced the Class of 2011 Valedictorian, Laila Al-Daghestani. Laila rose to the podium to deliver her speech, which was both moving and insightful. She spoke of the uncertainty of the future and the challenges that lay ahead for her and her fellow graduates saying, "Graduation is about so much more than a simple ceremony; it is a rite of passage. At this turning point, we come to the end of a long and trying journey, and we brace ourselves for the entirely new and infinitely more challenging one that lies ahead. It is our job, as the generation soon to be handed the reins of leadership, to bring upon progress to our world. To do that we must find the right path leading towards a better tomorrow." Laila, on behalf of the Class of 2011, ended her speech by thanking parents, families, professors, teachers, advisors and friends that have helped the graduates in their journey.

Laila is graduating with a BA degree in Communication and Media and a minor in History, and has earned the highest cumulative grade point average of this graduating class.

Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Nizar Hamzeh recommended the conferral of degrees to President Thompson who then conferred upon the 471 graduates their respective degrees. Graduates were then presented with their bachelor's degree diploma by President Thompson, Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa and Dr. Nizar Hamzeh, and in keeping with the academic tradition, the graduates were asked to move their tassels from right to left, thereby marking their official graduation from AUK.

The ceremony also included the traditional cutting of the Class of 2011 cake, and professional photography was provided for all graduates and their families and friends.

Award winning painter David Hewitt presented a lecture at AUK's Multipurpose room titled "Urban Remains and Other Detritus" along with a slide show overview of his work to more than 100 AUK students on May 30th. Hewitt showed paintings ranging from the near-photo realism of his early work in Ecuador through his current body of work exploring "refigured" ruins of ancient civilizations. Centering on large-scale landscapes painted primarily in the Middle East, the work features heritage sites such as Baalbeck in Lebanon and Petra in Jordan. Energized and inspired, the audience of mostly ART and GDES students kept the artist, asking questions for a half-hour after the lecture.

Hewitt, a graduate of Cornell University and Associate Professor of Design at the American University of Sharjah in the UAE, is an internationally exhibited, award-winning painter. Most recently, his work has been exhibited in solo shows in New York at First Street Gallery (2009) and at Cuadro Fine Art in Dubai (2010).


Award winning painter David Hewitt


Assistant Professor of Studio Arts Sharon Lawrence introduces Mr. Hewitt

Released by the PR & Marketing Department on the 6th June 2011

Forty AUK Students conducted a Study Abroad Trip to the United States in International Marketing, and visited four major Universities in Florida.

For the second year in a row, approximately 40 AUK students conducted a successful Study Abroad trip in the US to learn about American marketing practices. Last year's visit was to the Washington, DC Metro Area and New York City. This year, the study trip was to Florida. Both trips were planned and coordinated by AUK Professors Dr. Mohsen Bagnied and Marcia Denny.

The study trip this year included visits to four major Universities in Southern Florida - the University of Miami, NOVA Southeastern University, Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University. The students visited class rooms in action and interacted with American students, professors and administrators at all four of these institutions; particular concentration was placed on the graduate business programs at UM, NOVA, and FAU, and the hospitality management program at FIU.

At NOVA, AUK's students participated and received certificates of completion in a two-day intensive seminar on Managing Marketing and Sales Strategy. While in Fort Lauderdale, the students also received lectures in entrepreneurship and small business practices in the US from an experienced American marketing consultant.

Cities visited included Miami, Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Key Largo, Boca Raton, and Orlando. As part of the international marketing experience, the students immersed themselves as shoppers at a large number of shopping malls and outlets in these cities, observing, first-hand, the latest American advertising and promotional techniques. The trip itinerary also included excursions to the Florida Everglades, Sea World, and Disney World.

For most of the participating students, this was their first opportunity to observe, the American educational system. Many students called the experience "the trip of a life time" and determined to pursue their graduate studies in the United States. It was a great opportunity for AUK students to learn about American marketing, observing American culture and visiting tourist sites.

Released by the PR & Marketing Department on the 2nd June 2011

After a month and a half of seasonal play and two weeks of playoffs, the American University of Kuwait (AUK) has won the 2011 University Championship Cup (UCC) for the fourth time. This year's UCC trophy race was extremely close; the outcome of the men's and women's soccer finals determined the winner. When the points were tallied, AUK edged out the Australian College of Kuwait (ACK ) by one point and the Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST) only trailed by two points. This neck and neck competition showed the importance of each game. The four first places AUK received from tennis and basketball teams gave AUK a whopping 20 points. However, the AUK women's table tennis team's key victory over ACK in the semi-finals made all the difference when it came down to the points total. AUK Athletics showed a tremendous amount of determination, spirit, and talent this year. They truly deserve the title UCC 2011 Champions!

The UCC is currently a sports tournament amongst private universities in Kuwait. It was established in 2006 and has taken place a total of five times. Out of those five competitions, AUK has been crowned UCC Champion four times. GUST was the previous UCC Champion, making it the only other university to win. AUK, ACK, and GUST have competed in every UCC competition. Other universities have been involved in the past, such as the Arab Open University (AOU) and Kuwait University. With a new UCC committee organizing the tournament, it is hoped that next year's UCC will involve more private universities than ever before. The American University of the Middle East / American College of the Middle East, as well as Boxhill College, are being considered as possible participants. It is even hoped that AOU will rejoin, once their temporary hold has been resolved.

UCC 2011 involved five intercollegiate sports: soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and table tennis. Sport venues were provided by the participating universities, allowing the UCC to take place on various campuses. This year AUK hosted table tennis, ACK hosted soccer and tennis, and GUST hosted basketball and volleyball. Next year's UCC may involve a couple of new sports. Swimming and squash are being seriously considered. The UCC begins with seasonal play for each sport. Universities play each other a number of times and are then ranked on their win/loss record in each sport. Once seasonal play is finished, playoff brackets are then created based on rank. During the playoffs, universities' performance is recognized on a point basis. 1st Place = 5 points; 2nd Place = 3 points; 3rd Place = 2 points. At the conclusion of the playoffs, the points are then tallied up for every sport and the university with the most total points is awarded the UCC trophy.

The UCC committee is already planning UCC 2011-2012. In addition to having more universities and more sports, they intend to expand the UCC from a two month tournament to a year-long athletic competition. This would allow the UCC to be broken up into seasons, allowing each sport to shine in its own respect and giving student-athletes the opportunity to be involved in multiple sports. It would also create longer seasonal play, which means more games for each team to compete in. Hopefully next year's UCC will be even better than this year's.

A special thanks to all the students, faculty, and staff that came out to support the AUK teams in this year's UCC. Your cheering and motivation created an exciting atmosphere that pushed our student-athletes to perform at the next level. Thank you for showing your Wolf Pack spirit!

Released by the PR & Marketing Department on the 1st June 2011