With excitement and anticipation, 454 students at American University of Sharjah (AUS) gathered with their families and friends to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and dreams realized at the Fall 2024 Commencement.
Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, presided over the ceremony held on December 21 in University City Hall, marking this pivotal moment in the lives of the graduates, reflecting on the challenges faced, milestones achieved and the futures that lie ahead.
Sheikha Bodour said: ‘As well as a celebration, the Fall Commencement conveys the transformative, uplifting power of education. Each graduate carries with them the spirit of resilience, curiosity, and purpose that is in our DNA at AUS. As they embark on new journeys, I am certain they will make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider world. Because that is the essence of our mission: to nurture leaders who inspire progress and embody the values that define AUS. Congratulations to all our graduating students on their remarkable achievements; for them, this is just the beginning.’
During the ceremony, Sheikha Bodour conferred AUS’ inaugural honorary doctorate on Yusuf Islam, a renowned singer-songwriter and humanitarian previously known as Cat Stevens. Islam’s music has inspired millions with its messages of peace and social justice. This honor recognizes his unwavering commitment to charitable causes and his significant contributions to the arts and society.
Student speaker Hana’ Sabri, a mass communications honors graduate, captured the collective emotions and experiences of the graduates. She also reflected on how change, while always the only constant, also serves as a defining force that shapes personalities and influences one’s approach to life. Once a student of medicine, Sabri made a decision to change her career trajectory by taking “a leap into the unknown, hoping something would catch [her].” She found her passion at AUS where she specialized in integrated marketing communication.
“Embedded in every moment of change is a powerful opportunity to redefine ourselves, to rise to the challenge and to uncover a better version of who we are… changes that challenge us the most are the ones that make us stronger, wiser and more adaptable. AUS opened doors I hadn’t even known existed, and I realized that true growth often comes from having the courage to change direction—to embrace uncertainty and trust that every step forward brings new opportunities,” she said.
From adapting to a pandemic and responding to regional conflicts and global climate crises to embracing technological advancements like AI, Sabri said AUS graduates have shown resilience, compassion and a commitment to driving positive change.
“The only constant throughout these challenges was our ability to adapt to the change each challenge brought. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our families… and our professors and mentors, who not only equipped us with knowledge but also challenged us to apply our learning in ways that extend far beyond the walls of the classroom,” she said.
Guest and keynote speaker Chris Gardner, a renowned entrepreneur, motivational speaker and author, shared his inspiring story and powerful insights with the graduates. Best known for his memoir The Pursuit of Happyness, which was later adapted into a critically acclaimed film exemplifying resilience and determination, Gardner offered the graduates lessons on perseverance and purpose as they embark on their own paths to success.Adding a personal touch to the occasion, Gardner also signed copies of his books, leaving attendees with a memorable keepsake of his message.
Dr, Tod Lausen, Chancellor of AUS, called upon the graduates to always carry with them the values of service and dedication to their communities, reminding them that their impact extends far beyond your profession.
“As you graduate, I encourage you to keep evolving, striving to be a powerful force for positive change in this world. Use your knowledge, skills and heart to make a meaningful impact wherever you go. Always remain grounded in kindness, integrity and compassion, embodying both professional excellence and a commitment to the betterment of society. Today, you become part of our great alumni family, and we look forward to supporting you, celebrating your successes and growing alongside you in the years to come,” he said.
As AUS students embark on the next chapter of their lives, the university’s strong employer reputation and employment outcomes ensure that they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. AUS alumni are thriving across a wide spectrum of industries, making significant contributions that resonate globally. They play influential roles in top-tier multinational companies, government bodies, and leading nonprofit organizations, while many are also advancing their expertise through graduate studies at some of the world’s most prestigious universities. Their impact is felt in both their professions and the communities they serve. With a robust alumni network and dedicated career services, graduates are positioned to make significant contributions to their respective industries and communities.
The breakdown of the Class of Fall 2024 is as follows:
- Total graduating students: 454
- Undergraduate students receiving degrees: 381
- Graduate students receiving degrees: 73
- Male graduates: 213
- Female graduates: 241
- UAE nationals graduating: 131
- A breakdown of the graduating class by college/school is as follows:
o College of Architecture, Art and Design: 20 undergraduates and 5 graduates
o College of Arts and Sciences: 84 undergraduates and 16 graduates
o College of Engineering: 171 undergraduates and 39 graduates
o School of Business Administration: 106 undergraduates and 13 graduates
For more information on the Class of Fall 2024, visit www.aus.edu/commencement.
