Latest news with #CommencementCeremony
Web Release
3 days ago
- Health
- Web Release
The American University of Beirut Graduates Its 156th Cohort of Trailblazers
The American University of Beirut (AUB) Honorary Doctorate and Graduate Commencement Ceremony was held on May 30, 2025, conferring master's, doctorate, and medical degrees to 678 students and recognizing this year's honorary doctorate degree recipients: Christiana Figueres; Dr. Raif Geha; and Dr. Philip Khoury. The ceremony was attended by Dr. Nawaf Salam, president of the Council of Ministers, who represented His Excellency, General Joseph Aoun, the president of the Republic of Lebanon. In President Aoun's name, Salam decorated the two honorees of Lebanese descent—Dr. Philip Khoury and Dr. Raif Geha—by bestowing upon them the Lebanese Order of Merit, Silver Grade. 'AUB graduates carry the potential not just to lead, but to build bridges, and to be peacemakers where peace is most needed… At AUB, we do not work for rankings. We work to change the world. We do not just train highly paid consultants, physicians, nurses, engineers, and scientists. We train change-makers,' said Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president, to the graduates. 'We are here to uplift, to empower, to enlighten, to transform. We are not here simply to help you gain knowledge, or jobs, or opportunities, or degrees or wealth, but rather to help you in being uplifted, to uplift your families, communities, and nations. That has never been more critical than it is today.' Khuri spoke about the joy of living with purpose and every individual's right to the pursuit of health, happiness, and a more abundant life. This year's graduate student speaker was medical student Nader Zalaquett, a high-distinction achiever who has held several leadership roles, co-authored numerous scientific publications, and received multiple research awards and grants. With extensive clinical experience focusing on otolaryngology head and neck surgery, Zalaquett will be joining Mayo Clinic's Department of Otolaryngology. 'What are the odds that a sixteen-year-old from Zahle, with near zero exposure to Beirut and its universities, would graduate as a medical doctor from the best medical school in the Middle East?' said Zalaquett. 'Little did I know that AUB is a door to the entire world. From the halls of the #1 hospital to the #1 cancer center and the #1 tech firm in the world, an AUB graduate was always there, ready to guide, support, and uplift.' He added, 'AUB has given us more than an education, it has given us a launchpad to every single corner of the world.' President Khuri bestowed the university's honorary doctorate degrees upon this year's recipients, in recognition of their contributions and representation of the values and mission of AUB: diplomat, author, and architect of the Paris Climate Agreement, Christiana Figueres; allergist, immunologist, and James Gamble Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Raif Geha; and academic leader and historian of Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, and chairman emeritus of the AUB Board of Trustees, Dr. Philip Khoury. The commencement keynote speaker, Dr. Raif Geha, graduated from AUB to become a world-renowned physician-scientist with an enduring impact on pediatrics and immunology. He spoke about his experience as a biology and then medical student at AUB, and the role that holistic education, mentors, and relationships established at AUB played in his education and career. 'Acquiring the skills needed to lead a meaningful, successful, and happy life requires the type of education AUB provides,' said Geha. 'One pillar of my education at AUB has been my mentors and role models… I learned from my mentors at AUB about rigor, hard work, tough love, grace, humility, compassion and humor.' Geha concluded with words of wisdom as the class of 2025 looked toward a new chapter in their journey of trailblazing leadership and impactful service, 'To the graduating students, I say work hard, nose to the ground.' He added that, 'the two things worth spending money on are education and memories. AUB has given you plenty of each. Use both to live life more abundantly.'
Al Bawaba
4 days ago
- General
- Al Bawaba
AURAK Graduation Ceremony Sees Record Number of Female Graduates; AI Gains Prominence
Female graduates outnumbered males at the twin Commencement Ceremonies of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), while Artificial Intelligence (AI) took center-stage with the number of graduates doubling in just one two graduation ceremonies (13th and 14th) saw a total of 331 graduate and undergraduate students receive their degrees, of which 188 (56.8 per cent) were female, reflecting the growing trend of women aspiring for careers and second major takeaway was the rising prominence of AI in the career landscape. The ceremony saw the very first batch of the university's Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence receive their degrees. AURAK's Bachelor of Science in AI is a four-year program that empowers students to design and develop computer systems and data models, using the latest advances in the 13th Graduation Ceremony (Class of 24) had extra significance attached to it, for these graduates had entered university in the thick of Covid-19 disruption, and had to navigate through the unknown territory of online listed among Top 500 Universities in the 2025 QS World University Rankings and occupying the sixth position among UAE universities, honored 68 graduates and 263 undergraduates at the two ceremonies held on successive days. Eight students earned the Summa Cum Laude (highest distinction) honor.H.E. Robert Raines, US Consul General in Dubai, who delivered the Commencement Adress, hailed the resilience displayed by the Covid-impacted graduates of the Class of 2024, and urged them to draw inspiration from the ghaf tree, whose roots go 60 meters into the soil. 'Remember your resilience. Remember that you can do this, whether you become scientists, teachers, entrepreneurs, engineers, artists or diplomats. You're entering a world that faces serious global challenges. You will need your resilience to survive and to succeed, and the world needs you to succeed. Second, I hope that you'll remember the value and the importance of community… because it is your community that will nourish you as you grow,' H.E. Robert Raines David A. Schmidt, President of AURAK, in his welcome address, said: 'The world you are stepping into demands resilience, adaptability and vision. You've proven that you can navigate uncertainty and adapt to the unexpected. You've pursued knowledge, not at the absence of obstacles, but often in the face of them. As we confer your degrees, we do more than acknowledge your academic accomplishments, we affirm your readiness to lead and to shape the future.'.Prof. Stephen C. Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success / Provost, urged the graduates to carry the legacy of appreciation for diversity and a commitment to promoting cultural understanding and to fostering civic responsibility.'Learning is a lifelong process through which you can leverage your knowledge and skills to become leaders and entrepreneurs who can change the world for the better,' he graduates received their degrees in the presence of the Chairman of the AURAK Board of Trustees and other board members; H.E. Robert Raines, US Consul General in Dubai; AURAK President David A. Schmidt; and administrative leadership team and faculty of the university. The Valedictorian Address was delivered by Mohammed Ayyub, the topper in Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology with the highest CGPA of 3.95, on the first day. For the second Commencement Ceremony, there were two Valedictorians: Maryam Saeed Sanad Abdulla Alnaqbi (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration), the first Emirati to earn the honor in recent years, and Leen Mohammad Jamal Zaid (Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology).
Newsweek
23-05-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
Gen Z Men Who Live at Home Feel Less Ready to Move Out Than Women
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. While many Gen Z-ers are opting to continue living at home as the price of rent and homes skyrocket, the way men and women view their living situations appears remarkably different, according to a new Sallie Mae report. While 47 percent of young adults who graduated college within the past five years are living with parents or relatives, men were far more likely to say they were "not ready to move out" compared to women. While 45 percent of male graduates who live at home said they weren't ready, only 28 percent of female graduates said the same in the survey of more than 1,000 recent graduates. Why It Matters Women are far outpacing men when it comes to higher education. The Pew Research Center discovered a large drop in male Hispanic high school graduates turning away from four-year colleges. While 42 percent were in attendance in 2011, the number fell to 33 percent in 2022. White males had a substantial drop, as well. While 49 percent attended college in 2011, the number moved to 40 percent in 2022. The gap was significant for white high school graduates, as female white graduates were the most likely to enroll in college, at 50 percent. The inclination to not feel "ready" to move out of their family's home may signify larger shifts happening as it concerns gender dynamics amongst young people. Students look on a wait for the start of the Commencement Ceremony at Columbia University in New York on May 21, 2025. Students look on a wait for the start of the Commencement Ceremony at Columbia University in New York on May 21, 2025. CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/POOL/AFP via Getty Image What To Know Across the board, a significant portion, 47 percent, of young adults who graduated college within the past five years are still living with parents or relatives. However, their reasons for staying at home may vary significantly for men and women. While rent costs can take up a hefty chunk of a college graduate's first salary, not all of those staying at home are doing it solely to avoid higher costs of living. While 45 percent of men who stayed living at home said they didn't feel "ready," only 28 percent of female graduates said the same. They were more likely to say they were staying with family to save money or that they like living with their family. Altogether, 66 percent said they are staying at home to save money, and 33 percent said they liked living with their family. HR consultant Bryan Driscoll said the gap reflects the differing ways Gen Z men and women were raised. "Gen Z women have been raised in a society that undervalues them so they've had to be over-prepared just to be seen as competent," Driscoll told Newsweek. "Men on the other hand, haven't faced the same pressure. Ever. The result is a generation of young women who are scrappy and self-reliant, and a cohort of young men who've been told they have time. But they don't." What People Are Saying HR consultant Bryan Driscoll told Newsweek: "The gender gap here isn't just about rent money. It's about responsibility, expectations, and how we've coddled young men while demanding resilience from young women." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "We've seen a growing trend in recent years of young men wanting to live at home with family members for longer periods of time. Some of this is financial, as job opportunities in their area may not have pay adequate enough to be able to live on their own. The other component - which has been highly discussed - is the social aspect. Whereas some Gen Z women are ready to get their adult lives on track, some of their male counterparts may be fine having more years to develop before leaving the nest, and those years can form new habits others may or may not gravitate to." What Happens Next Driscoll said there could be far reaching impacts for outdated gender norms and the greater gap that exists between men and women today. "Parents often expect daughters to help with chores and caregiving, while sons get a pass. It's no surprise who feels more ready to take on adult life," Driscoll said. "If we don't shift these dynamics, we'll keep seeing delayed independence, stalled careers, and a generation of men emotionally and professionally outpaced by their female peers. The gender gap isn't closing. Women are sprinting forward while too many young men are still tying their shoes."
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Thunderbirds arrive at Peterson May 27
(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — The Air Force Thunderbirds will arrive in Colorado Springs on Tuesday, May 27, ahead of the 2025 Commencement Ceremony at the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) on Thursday, May 29. The U.S. Air Force Demonstration Squadron, commonly referred to as the Thunderbirds, will conduct a site survey of the Academy on Tuesday before landing at Peterson Space Force Base (SFB). Then, on Wednesday, May 28, professional golfer and 2014 USAFA graduate, Kyle Westmoreland, will hop into the cockpit of one of the iconic F-16s for a once-in-a-lifetime flight over the Pikes Peak Region. 2025 U.S. Air Force Academy graduation: What you need to know According to Peterson SFB, the Thunderbirds serve as America's premier air demonstration team, showcasing the precision and professionalism of Airmen while inspiring a new generation of pilots. Flying six F-16 fighter jets in tight formation, the Thunderbirds execute breathtaking aerial maneuvers, demonstrating the exceptional capabilities of the Air Force's advanced fighter jets and the highly skilled pilots who operate them. The Thunderbirds are stationed at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas and perform approximately 75 demonstrations across the nation in a year. In addition to their responsibilities as the official U.S. Air Force aerial demonstration team, the Thunderbirds are part of the combat force. According to the Air Force, if required, the team's personnel and aircraft can be rapidly integrated into a fighter unit at Nellis AFB. Since the aircraft are only slightly modified, they can be made combat-ready in less than 72 hours. The Thunderbirds will perform a flyover during the cap toss at the graduation ceremony on Thursday, ahead of a celebratory aerial display that lasts about an hour and 15 minutes. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Black America Web
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Taraji P Henson Honors Black Excellence at Spelman 2025 Commencement
Source: Paras Griffin / Getty Spelman College's 138th Commencement Ceremony wasn't just a celebration of the largest graduating class in the institution's history; it was a historic moment of inspiration. Academy Award-nominated actress, mental health advocate Taraji P. Henson took the stage on May 18 at the Georgia International Convention Center, leaving 694 graduates and their families on their feet, hearts full, and dreams reignited. Henson was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree, cementing her place among Spelman's extraordinary legacy of leaders. The degree symbolizes more than her cinematic success, which includes acclaim for films like Hidden Figures and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button . It recognizes her fearless role as an advocate for Black voices, mental health awareness, and authenticity. STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! For over 140 years, Spelman has been cultivating Black women of excellence. Its halls have shaped leaders beyond the classroom–women who disrupt industries, drive cultural change, and consistently rewrite narratives. Henson's call to action for the Class of 2025 wasn't just to aim high, but to uplift others as they rise. Her words encapsulated the spirit of Spelman women past, present, and future. With this commencement, the Class of 2025 stepped forth not only as graduates but as leaders with the tools to shift paradigms and move mountains, honoring the legacy of Spelman while forging their own. READ MORE STORIES: Taraji P Henson Honors Black Excellence at Spelman 2025 Commencement Trump Demands Probe Into Beyoncé, Springsteen Campaign Appearances Malcolm X's Childhood Trauma And The Case For Abolishing Family Policing Spelman's largest class to date, with 694 graduates, represents more than diplomas. They symbolize the culmination of years of determination, collaboration, and triumph over challenges. And with four valedictorians reflecting majors like biochemistry and political science, this graduating class stands poised to change the world. Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Keep breaking barriers, championing excellence, and using your voice to craft a better world. Taraji P. Henson said it best, 'The world is watching. And we're ready for your revolution.' LIKE US ON FACEBOOK . FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & TWITTER . SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE . STAY INFORMED! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER! HEAD TO THE HOMEPAGE The article 'Taraji P Henson Honors Black Excellence at Spelman 2025 Commencement' was created with the help of SEE ALSO
