Sheikha Bodour Unveils Vision for AUS Future Development

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) has officially inaugurated the first meeting of its Advisory Council of Development and Outreach (ACDO) for the 2026–2029 term. Chaired by the university president, Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the council aims to leverage the expertise of prominent business and government leaders to bolster the university’s regional and international standing. Government and public service, including several AUS alumni, the meeting explored how members can contribute their expertise and networks to strengthen partnerships, expand student opportunities and extend the university’s reach, bringing together leaders from business. Sheikha Bodour said: “The UAE’s ambitions call for universities that can help shape what comes next.

Addressing the council, Sheikha Bodour emphasized that the UAE’s strategic goals require academic institutions capable of shaping future progress. She articulated a vision for AUS to serve as a hub for developing individuals with the judgment and imagination required to lead societal change, while acting as an incubator for ideas that broaden future possibilities. The council is tasked with looking ahead to ensure today’s decisions benefit generations to come.

Chancellor Dr. Tod A. Laursen outlined the university’s institutional advancement priorities during the session. He highlighted the necessity of strengthening government and industry ties, advancing real-world research, and refining educational pathways for emerging career sectors. Reflecting on the importance of support, he noted that currently two out of every three students at AUS benefit from scholarships or financial grants. Noting that two in three AUS students receive a scholarship or grant, he also underscored access and opportunity as an ongoing priority. According to “Every partnership that has shaped AUS, from research funds to centres of excellence, began with a conversation,”, Dr. Laursen.

According to Dr. Laursen, foundational partnerships often stem from initial conversations. He expressed confidence that the council members—who represent sectors where graduates will eventually lead—would play a vital role in creating new opportunities for talent and fostering long-term value for the region. Over the three-year term, members will meet periodically to focus on building institutional partnerships, securing resources, and serving as global representatives for the university.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between AUS and the Sharjah Islamic Bank. Represented by CEO Mohamed Abdalla, the bank entered a strategic partnership with the university covering areas such as financial literacy, Islamic finance, research innovation, and professional student development. The agreement was witnessed by Sheikha Bodour.

The ACDO membership for the 2026–2029 term brings together a diverse array of professional experience, including Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, former UAE Minister of Foreign Trade and Minister of International Cooperation and Development; Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Chairman of Emirates Investment Group; and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdullah Al Thani, Managing Director of Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club. Additional members include Majid Jafar, CEO of Crescent Petroleum; Haleema Al Owais, Chairperson of the Sharjah Consultative Council; Patrick Chalhoub, Executive Chairman of Chalhoub Group; and Omar Ghobash, who serves as an ex officio member as Chair of the Resource Development Committee for the Board of Trustees.

The council further includes Mohamed Abdalla, CEO of Sharjah Islamic Bank; Muna Al Gurg, Vice Chairperson of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group; Obaid Saeed Al Tunaiji, Director General of Sharjah Municipality; and Sami Dhaen Al Qamzi, Board Chairman at Health and Medical Services. Rounding out the council are Feras Al Sadek, Managing Partner of Ghaf Capital Partners; Amira Sajwani, founder of PRYPCO and Managing Director of DAMAC Properties; Shaji Ul Mulk of Mulk Holdings International; Omar Afana, CEO of Fast Building Contractors; and Atheeqe Ansari, CEO of Electric Way.