Latest news with #AmericanUniversityofSharjah
Gulf Today
a day ago
- General
- Gulf Today
Sheikha Bodour opens annual graduation exhibition of AUS
The College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) at American University of Sharjah (AUS) presented its highly anticipated annual graduation exhibition, 'Six Degrees,' on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, attended the opening and officially inaugurated the exhibit. In its 15th year, the exhibition brought together the work of graduating students across CAAD's diverse degree programmes — architecture, interior design, design management, multimedia design, visual communication and urban planning. The opening ceremony was open to the public and served as an important platform for connecting emerging talent from CAAD with representatives from the design professions in the UAE. 'For each student, Six Degrees represents the culmination of four or five years of rigorous studio practice, creative exploration and growth. It offers our community a moment of celebration, reflection and pride,' said Dr. Varkki Pallathucheril, Dean of CAAD. 'The show has grown significantly over the years, and, as I mark my final year as dean, I am deeply grateful to those at CAAD who work tirelessly to bring it to life. I feel fortunate to have witnessed so many generations of CAAD graduates launch their professional journeys through this platform.' 'We are proud to host Six Degrees at SRTIP, a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the exceptional talent nurtured at the American University of Sharjah. This exhibition reflects our ongoing commitment to bridging academia and industry, and to empowering the next generation of designers and architects who will shape more sustainable, human-centred cities and products for the future,' said Hussain Al Mahmoudi, the Chief Executive Officer of the SRTIP. The event also included the CAAD annual awards ceremony. This year, 28 outstanding students and faculty were recognised for their exceptional academic performance, creative accomplishments, leadership and service to the university community. 'Six Degrees has always been more than just a showcase — it's a celebration of transformation. Year after year, it captures the evolution of creative thought, the courage to challenge convention and the spirit of design that defines CAAD. Returning to the show is a reminder of the energy and imagination that first shaped me as a student and now fuels my work as a professional,' said CAAD alumna Tala Alnounou. CAAD is widely recognised for its distinctive studio-based education model and interdisciplinary approach to design. As the top-ranked school (tied) for architecture and the built environment in the UAE and among the top 260 schools globally for art and design (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025), CAAD offers creatively-gifted students a dynamic environment in which to sharpen their creative skills and make their mark in the world of design. This year's Six Degrees showcase was accompanied by Najat Makki, Artist in Residence, 2024–25, a special exhibition of selected works by pioneering Emirati visual artist Dr. Najat Makki, developed during her residency at AUS. Dr. Makki's exhibited works explore transitions in time and place through layered colour, ornamentation and abstraction — offering a deeply personal yet universally resonant reflection on memory, heritage and modernity. Dr. Makki's residency at AUS was part of a broader vision championed by Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, to position creative practice as a central pillar of academic life. The Six Degrees showcase and Najat Makki Artist in Residence 2024–25 are part of the same exhibition space at SRTIP. From June 1, the exhibition will be open to the public from 9:00am to 11:00 p.m. The exhibition will remain open until June 6. Recently, the AUS Board of Trustees, chaired by Sheikha Bodour, convened to review and approve a series of strategic actions focused on leadership development, academic excellence and financial sustainability.
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Bodour Al Qasimi inaugurates 'Six Degrees' exhibition
1 June 2025 18:06 SHARJAH (WAM) Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the American University of Sharjah (AUS), inaugurated the 15th annual "Six Degrees" graduation exhibition at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation exhibition is open to the public and showcases the work of graduating students from the College of Architecture, Art, and Design (CAAD) at exhibition features projects from a wide range of CAAD programmes, including architecture, interior design, design management, multimedia design, visual communication, and urban planning. It provides a vital platform for connecting students with representatives from the UAE's design and creative of College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD,) Dr. Varkki Pallathucheril, emphasised that the exhibition represents the culmination of each student's academic journey, marked by creative exploration, studio work, and professional of SRTI Park, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, highlighted the park's role in hosting the exhibition, underlining its importance in promoting innovation and supporting young designers and architects. He noted that the event demonstrates a commitment to fostering sustainable, human-centered solutions through the collaboration of academia and part of the event, CAAD held its annual awards ceremony, recognising 28 exceptional students and faculty members for academic excellence, creativity, leadership, and service to the AUS year's edition also includes a special showcase by pioneering Emirati artist Dr Najat Makki, who is the 2024–2025 artist-in-residence at AUS. Her selected works, developed during her residency, are featured as a central part of the exhibition, which continues until June 8.
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
AUS Board approves decisions focused on leadership growth
The American University of Sharjah (AUS) Board of Trustees, chaired by Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, met to review and approve a set of strategic actions focused on leadership development, academic excellence and financial sustainability. After the meeting, Sheikha Bodour said: 'Excellence in education is achieved through conscious investment in people, planning, and principled governance. The Board's decisions reflect a commitment to building an institution that is academically distinguished yet operationally resilient. We are strengthening our leadership, supporting faculty development, and refining our governance frameworks to ensure AUS remains responsive to today's demands as a leading force in shaping higher education in our region and beyond.' 'The decisions taken during this board meeting reflect the strength of our vision and the clarity with which AUS is charting its path forward,' said Dr Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. 'With strengthened leadership, defined academic priorities and disciplined financial planning, we are positioning the university to lead with purpose in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.' Among the key outcomes, the board approved the appointment of Dr. Matthias Ruth as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. Dr. Ruth is an academic leader with a distinguished track record in interdisciplinary research and institutional strategy, having held senior roles at the University of York, the University of Alberta and Northeastern University. The board also advanced several initiatives to support faculty excellence, including the approval of a new round of rolling contracts and a new round of academic promotions. These measures reflect AUS' continued focus on attracting and retaining outstanding faculty while fostering a culture of academic distinction. An updated Human Resources Policy Manual was also adopted to align institutional practices with international standards in higher education administration. In the area of financial governance, the board approved the university's fiscal year 2025–2026 general operating budget, along with dedicated budgets for research, graduate studies and capital projects. It also endorsed the standalone financial statements of AUS Enterprises — a holding company established to support the university's financial sustainability — for the 15-month period ending Aug.31, 2024. To further strengthen its governance structure, the board welcomed three new members: Dr. Ebtesam Almazrouei, Dr. Tony F. Chan and Mohamed Khadiri. Dr. Almazrouei serves as Executive Director and Acting Chief AI Researcher at the Technology Innovation Institute in Abu Dhabi and chairs the United Nations' AI for Good Impact Initiative. Dr. Chan recently concluded his presidency at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia and previously served as President of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Khadiri is the Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Sharjah, with deep expertise in global corporate and investment banking. With these decisions, AUS reaffirms its position as a regional and global leader in higher education — committed to academic distinction, community impact and preparing graduates to shape the future. For more information on AUS and its strategic initiatives, visit Recently, the AUS celebrated its philanthropic partners who are helping shape the future of education during the AUS Donor Appreciation Get-Together, held on campus in the presence of Sheikha Bodour. The event brought together philanthropists, alumni, partners and friends of the university to recognise those whose support continues to drive AUS forward. Among the distinguished guests was Sir Magdi Yacoub, world-renowned heart surgeon and philanthropist, who joined the celebration as a guest of honour, underscoring the shared values of compassion, education and service that define the AUS donor community. Guests were welcomed at the AUS Rotunda by university leadership, faculty and student ambassadors.
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
AUS, BEEAH launch professorship in eco innovation
In a significant move that reaffirms the UAE's position at the forefront of sustainability and environmental innovation, American University of Sharjah (AUS) and BEEAH have signed an agreement to establish the BEEAH Professorship in Environmental Innovation and Sustainable Development at AUS. Backed by a generous Dhs5 million investment from BEEAH, the professorship aims to accelerate breakthrough research and equip future leaders with the tools to shape a more sustainable world. The agreement was signed at the AUS campus by Dr. Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and Khaled Al Huraimel, Group Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of BEEAH, in the presence of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, and representatives from both institutions. 'This partnership with BEEAH is a strategic alignment of vision and values. It reflects our shared commitment to addressing the world's most pressing environmental challenges through knowledge, innovation and leadership,' said Dr. Laursen. 'The BEEAH professorship will empower AUS to deepen its research agenda while preparing our students to lead in an increasingly complex, sustainability-focused global landscape.' 'To solve our collective challenges as society and drive sustainable progress at scale, education, research and innovation are essential. BEEAH's educational initiatives in these areas and our long-time strategic partnership with AUS are a testament to that fact,' said Al Huraimel. 'The new professorship marks a major step forward in our shared journey of collaboration, unlocking a new opportunity for academic excellence, groundbreaking research and transformational leadership dedicated to sparking innovations for a sustainable tomorrow.' The professorship will serve as a cornerstone for advancing research in climate resilience, environmental sustainability and sustainable urban development. It will also foster innovation in key areas such as renewable energy, waste management, smart cities and the circular economy — while equipping the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and tools to drive impactful environmental change. AUS is ranked first in the UAE for environmental sustainability (QS World University Rankings 2025) and has been named a Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) Gold Institution by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) based on its accomplishments in campus sustainability. Reem Bardan, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at AUS, said: 'What makes this partnership truly meaningful is its consistency and depth. BEEAH has stood by AUS across many milestones — sponsoring flagship campus events, engaging with our students and supporting initiatives that align with our academic and institutional goals. This professorship represents a natural progression in a relationship built on mutual trust, shared values and long-term commitment. It is yet another example of how strong, sustained partnerships can create lasting impact for our students, faculty and the broader AUS community.' This new professorship builds on AUS' growing portfolio of academic positions that support faculty excellence and long-term research impact. As part of its broader research strategy, AUS continues to attract prestigious investments that reinforce its role as a regional leader in innovation and academic advancement. For more information about AUS' professorships and chairs, visit .
Hi Dubai
6 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Aura by Sree: How Sreeparvathy Sunil Is Putting Artisanal Donuts on Dubai's Map
At just 24, Sreeparvathy Sunil has carved out a niche in Dubai's saturated dessert scene with Aura by Sree, a cozy Karama-based bakery serving inventive, globally inspired donuts. Armed with a culinary degree from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America and a background in business from the American University of Sharjah, Sree blends creative flair with entrepreneurial precision—turning her passion for food into a growing brand. In this exclusive interview, Sree opens up about the leap of faith that launched her business, the behind-the-scenes grind of building a brand from scratch, and how she's winning over Dubai's food lovers. The Birth of a Vision View this post on Instagram A post shared by @aurabysree Sree's journey to founding Aura by Sree began far from the sandy shores of Dubai, at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. There, surrounded by food enthusiasts from across the globe, she was introduced to a world of pastries she had never encountered in her hometown. 'I was introduced to so many types of pastries I'd never seen or tried before in Dubai,' Sree recalls. 'That thought was always in my mind. Okay, there's something unique. I'm sure people here would also love to try it.' This spark of inspiration, ignited during her time abroad, planted the seed for Aura by Sree. After returning to Dubai and completing her education at the American University of Sharjah, Sree began to piece together her dream. The idea was vast, like an 'ocean,' as she describes it, brimming with possibilities for flavors and concepts. However, turning this vision into reality required focus and pragmatism. 'When it comes to starting out, you must narrow everything down to something that's very realistic,' she explains. By October 2023, Sree began planning in earnest, dedicating six to seven months to building the foundation of her business. The result? Aura by Sree, a boutique bakery that opened its doors in May 2024, bringing a fresh perspective to Dubai's dessert scene. A Leap of Faith Starting a bakery is no small feat, especially in a competitive market like Dubai. Sree's initial investment was significant, with the largest portion allocated to equipment. 'The biggest chunk goes to equipment,' she says. A single-group coffee machine, for instance, can cost upwards of 20,000 AED, with high-end models reaching 50,000 AED; a revelation that caught her by surprise. Equipment costs across the board were steep, whether for baking or working in the hot kitchen. Additionally, securing a shop required a one-year payment upfront, a daunting commitment before a single donut was sold. 'It's a little scary because you're investing a big sum, and you haven't even started selling anything yet,' Sree admits. Despite the financial risks, Sree took a leap of faith, driven by confidence in her product. 'I had a plan in mind, but I never really started—like, it got complicated in my head. Still, I was very confident in my product.' she says. To keep costs manageable, she leaned on her resourcefulness, collaborating with family friends and her parents to set up the shop. This DIY approach allowed her to allocate funds strategically, prioritizing quality ingredients and essential equipment while keeping branding and setup costs in check. What sets Aura by Sree apart in Dubai's crowded culinary landscape is its innovative menu, inspired by Sree's global experiences. Donuts, the bakery's centerpiece, were chosen deliberately to fill a gap in the UAE market. 'I personally love donuts, and I feel like I've seen a gap in the UAE market where not many companies focus on them.' Sree explains. Sree's time at culinary school introduced her to unique offerings like Korean-style donuts, which she describes as a revelation. 'The Korean donut was not something I was aware of… I tried it for the first time. I absolutely loved it. Never seen anything like that here,' she says. She also experimented with Italian-inspired bomboloni, adding her own creative twist to the traditional donut. These global influences, combined with her willingness to experiment, have resulted in a menu that's both familiar and excitingly new. One notable experiment was the Black Forest donut, introduced during the 2024 Christmas season. Initially, it struggled to attract customers due to its name. 'I think I went wrong with naming the donut Black Forest,' Sree reflects. 'When you tell someone, 'Do you want to try Black Forest?' Surprisingly, people were like, 'Oh, I don't like Black Forest.'' However, once customers tried the cherry ganache and white chocolate creation, they were hooked, proving that perception matters as much as taste. This lesson in branding underscored the importance of not just creating a great product but presenting it in a way that resonates with customers. Building a Brand Located in Karama, a hotspot for culinary diversity, Aura by Sree faces stiff competition. Yet, Sree has learned that a strong brand can overcome even the most challenging location. 'What I've learned since opening the bakery is that location is definitely important, but building a brand is what's more important,' she says. 'Once you build a brand, your location kind of does not matter because people will come for that brand.' This philosophy has proven true, as customers flock to Aura by Sree, some even waiting outside before the shop opens. The bakery has also garnered international attention, with orders coming from as far as Germany. Sree recalls a woman from Germany who reached out, wanting to send something to her family or friends in Dubai. 'That was a big shock for me… someone from all the way from Germany using my little, small bakery to buy donuts from.' These moments of recognition fuel Sree's ambition to expand beyond Karama, with dreams of opening in multiple locations and even countries. Sustainability and Community View this post on Instagram A post shared by @aurabysree Sree's commitment to sustainability sets Aura by Sree apart in an industry often plagued by waste. 'My donuts are freshly made every day,' she says proudly. To minimize waste, she developed a system to order ingredients based on demand, adjusting throughout the day to avoid overproduction. 'By ordering based on demand, we are reducing wastage at the shop,' she explains. Any unsold donuts are donated to local workers, such as security guards or petrol pump attendants, ensuring nothing goes to waste. This dedication to sustainability is matched by Sree's connection to her community. Despite initial concerns about being taken seriously as a young entrepreneur, she has been met with overwhelming support. She continues, 'The kind of messages I receive is so beautiful… People who don't even eat sweets want to come and buy for me just to support me.' This encouragement has fueled her drive to keep innovating, with a new flavor set to launch in the coming months, inspired by customer requests. Overcoming Challenges as a Young Entrepreneur Image Source: talabat As a young woman in a competitive industry, Sree faced challenges, particularly with suppliers who initially underestimated her. 'By the way that I talk to them, they kind of know I'm someone who's new in the market,' she says. To overcome this, she invested two months in researching the market and negotiating with suppliers. Once she had more information, she was able to engage in conversations that helped others see she was serious about studying the market. Her preparation paid off, earning her respect and better terms. Sree's advice to other young entrepreneurs is clear: preparation is key. 'Do your research very, very well,' she urges. She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to take their time to truly understand the industry they're entering: talk to people already in the field, learn from their experiences, and be fully aware of what they're getting into. This pragmatic approach, combined with her passion, has been the cornerstone of her success. Milestones and Ambitions Since opening, Aura by Sree has hit impressive milestones, from selling 200 donuts a day to peaking at 300. 'When I crossed like 200 donuts a day, that was something I was very happy with because I didn't see that coming,' Sree says. These achievements are not just about numbers but about building a loyal customer base, with a mix of repeat and new customers driving sales. While repeat customers often buy smaller quantities to satisfy cravings, new customers, often drawn by social media buzz, purchase in bulk to sample everything. Looking ahead, Sree envisions a bright future for Aura by Sree. She shares her dreams of expansion, saying, 'I want to open up in multiple locations. I want to open up in multiple countries.' However, she acknowledges the challenges of scaling a food business, where temperature and storage are critical. For now, her boutique store in Karama serves as a learning ground, preparing her for the next chapter. Aura by Sree is a reflection of passion, perseverance, and a whole lot of heart. From her early days in culinary school to building a brand in the heart of Karama, Sree's story shows what's possible when you mix big dreams with hard work. As she gears up to launch new creations and looks ahead to going global, one thing's clear — this is just the beginning. Watch the Interview: Also Read: The Success Story of Yunib Siddiqui: Transforming Jones the Grocer into a Global Brand This interview delves into Yunib's entrepreneurial journey, his strategic initiatives, and the innovative practices that have propelled Jones the Grocer to its current success. Eve Heinz: The 19-Year-Old Founder of Protein Bar Brand Linafsi Although protein bars are far from a new innovation in Dubai, Eve's interest in health and wellness led her to the discovery that most protein bar aisles in supermarkets were filled with global brands that sold cookie-cutter flavours. 95 Years of Mughlai Heritage: An Interview with Kabir Azhar and Asher Ather, The Fourth-Generation Leaders of Aminia From its humble beginnings as a modest eatery on Zakaria Street in Kolkata, Aminia has transformed into a renowned chain, now embarking on its global journey with its first international outlet in Dubai. How Barakat's Leaders Kenneth D'Costa and Rashid Alabbar Are Steering the Company to New Heights Barakat, a brand synonymous with quality, innovation, and sustainability since 1976, has remained a trusted name in fresh produce across the UAE. Driving this legacy forward are Kenneth D'Costa, Managing Director, and Rashid Mohamed Alabbar, Board Member. The Tale of Two Visionaries: How The Noodle House and Curious Elephant Collaborated to Delight Dubai's Palates The Noodle House, a renowned Southeast Asian dining venue, and Curious Elephant, a homegrown condiment brand, joined forces in a collaboration that exemplifies creativity, authenticity, and empowerment.
