Dear AUS Community,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the second issue of The Rotunda, a platform designed to keep you connected with the latest news and achievements from our university.
First and foremost, I am pleased to share the highlights from our recent Board of Trustees meeting. Chaired by Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President and Chairperson of the AUS Board of Trustees, the meeting marked a significant milestone in our journey towards academic and research excellence. The board approved the establishment of three new research centers: the Center for Arab Studies and Islamic Civilizations (CASIC), the Advanced Biosciences and Bioengineering Research Center (ABSBERC), and the Artificial Intelligence, Smart Infrastructure and Robotics Research Center (AISIRC). These centers will advance our mission to address critical global and regional challenges through innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The board also confirmed the appointments of Dr. Steven Griffiths as Vice Chancellor for Research and Dr. Mohamed El Tarhuni as Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost, as well as the assignments of Ali Al Suwaidi as Acting Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration and Shaima Bin Taliah as Acting Vice Chancellor for Student Experience. As I indicated in my earlier message, I am thrilled with the leadership team we are assembling, and I congratulate these colleagues on their appointments. Additionally, I would especially like to thank Dr. Abed Al-Nasser Abdallah for his dedicated service as Interim Chief Operating Officer between June 2023 and May 2024. His efforts were critical in seeing us through this transitional period, and I am very appreciative for the energy and level of AUS experience he brought to this assignment.
Additionally, the board endorsed the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Data Science Program, which will begin as soon as feasible after we obtain needed governmental approvals. This program will leverage the strengths of our mathematics, statistics, computer science and business analytics departments to equip students with the skills needed in a data-driven world.
On the faculty front, the board approved 20 promotion actions for our faculty members, and 15 rolling contract recommendations. Both types of action represent significant career milestones for those faculty, involving rigorous internal and external evaluations of their research, teaching and university service. I extend a hearty congratulations to all of my colleagues achieving these important milestones this year.
I would also like to extend my congratulations to the Class of Spring 2024 on their graduation. The ceremony was a memorable occasion, and we are immensely proud of our graduates and their achievements.
As we approach the blessed occasion of Eid Al Adha, I extend my heartfelt greetings to you and your families. May this joyous time bring peace, happiness and prosperity to all. Eid Mubarak!
Thank you for your continued dedication and contributions to our university community. I look forward to our continued journey together as we strive for excellence in all our endeavors.
Sincerely,
