More than 600 students at American University of Sharjah (AUS) were honored for their extracurricular achievements during the Annual Student Appreciation Award ceremony held May 2 at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre in Sharjah. Members of the AUS Student Council; students from the university's sports teams, student clubs and organizations; community services volunteers; and student leadership program participants were recognized for their hard work.

The Annual Student Appreciation Awards honor students' activities outside the classrooms and promotes their success by recognizing their achievements and encouraging them to explore their interests.

"AUS has gained a well-earned reputation for its academic excellence," said Dr. Björn Kjerfve, AUS Chancellor. "But your contributions outside the classroom - on campus and beyond - as athletes, student volunteers, university leaders and ambassadors have played a significant role in enhancing the standing of our university" he said.

"As you know, the university has always stressed the importance of activities that help enrich and broaden the campus experience. It is experiences such as these which will stand you in good stead in the future," Dr. Kjerfve added.

Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students, expressed her pride in the students' achievements and appreciated their participation in events and activities organized by the AUS Office of Student Affairs. "We provided opportunities, resources and encouragement to fulfill your extracurricular goals throughout this academic year and are happy to see your dedication and willing participation. Your presence today speaks of your committed engagement and accomplishments," said Dr. Al Shehhi, addressing the gathering.

Eight students received the Most Outstanding Active Student Award for their contributions in extracurricular activities in Academic Year 2015-2016. The awardees were:

Student Athletics and Recreation

Adam Abouelghr

Manal Machou

Ahmed Mohammed Eladl

Student Clubs and Organizations

Mohammed El Kalbani

Hamdan Shahid

Khalid Mohammed AbdulRahman

Leadership Program

Hanan Arab

Community Services

Karan Mohan

The following awards were presented for participation in AUS Global Day 2016:

Best Corner Awards

1st Place: Emirati Cultural Club

2nd Place: Egyptian Cultural Club

3rd Place: Lebanese Cultural Club

 Best Corner Idea: Syrian Cultural Club

 Best Teamwork (Corner): Northern Africa Clubs

Performance Awards

1st Place: Indian Cultural Club

2nd Place: Jordanian Cultural Club

3rd Place: Pakistani Cultural Club

 Best Performance Idea: Chinese Cultural Club

 Best Teamwork (performance): Bangladeshi Cultural Club

Club of the Year awards were given to the following:

Ethnic: Emirati Cultural Club

Interest-oriented: Photography Club

Best Sustainable Pavilion Award

Winner: Sri Lankan Cultural Club

Honorable Mention: Japanese Cultural Club

Also present at the awards ceremony were Professor Kevin Mitchell, Interim Provost; AUS deans and other senior university officials; faculty, staff and students.